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Doug, I can understand why you would take umbrage over the feedback you are getting ($4K in maintenance and refurbishment does not make it worth $4K), but that is the way it is with automotive. DAMHIK. I got around this impenetrable truism with a stated value policy and LOTS of documented customization (as opposed to refurbishment); I pay more for the policy, and at the end of the day it was very much worth it.

I'm saying this more for readers, too late for your scenario, and I've certainly been there (that's why I went stated value). Take the money, invest a bit, rebuild your vehicle, get it inspected so you can rescind the salvage part of the title, and see what you can do for improved coverage.


Truth has been spoken.

I just had my 89 4Runner appraised to get a stated value policy on it. The guy that did the appraisal typically does street rods, etc. Great guy and very knowledgeable.

I had receipts for almost $1K in engine maintenance/repairs and was curious if that would lend anything. NO. Maintenance and repairs are EXPECTED costs of owning a vehicle and do not add anything to the value and/or appraisal.

Consider it like owning a home. If you let your entire home fall apart, it's not going to be worth anything. But if you replace a bad water heater, it's not going to increase the value of the home at all; it's a maintenance item.

Brian K. Gallus
I have nothing important to say.