North 54 Salvage Inc In Alamogordo NM

North 54 Salvage Inc. in Alamogordo, NM: A Look Back

For many years, North 54 Salvage Inc. was a well-known name in Alamogordo, New Mexico, serving as a hub for used auto parts and vehicle recycling. Located at 7066 Hwy 54 North, Alamogordo, NM 88310, this salvage yard played a key role in helping folks find affordable parts and dispose of unwanted vehicles. However, it's important to know that as of recent reports, North 54 Salvage Inc. has held its final auction and is shutting down its operations. This guide offers a look back at the services and features that made it a notable spot for car enthusiasts and budget-minded mechanics alike.

Tracing Its Roots: Establishment and Ownership

The history of North 54 Salvage Inc. is a bit of a mystery, with some records suggesting it was established as early as 1950, while others point to 1994 by founder Steve Barzoff or even 2007. What's clear is that this salvage yard was around for a good long while, helping countless customers with their automotive needs.

Services Once Offered by North 54 Salvage Inc.

North 54 Salvage Inc. operated as a full-service salvage yard, providing a range of helpful services beyond just selling used car parts. They were set up to make vehicle salvage and part-finding easier for everyone. Below is a detailed look at the services they proudly provided:

Service	Description
Junk Car Purchases	They were well-known for buying junk cars, offering a simple way for folks to get rid of old or broken-down vehicles. This was a great option for anyone looking to clear out their yard and perhaps make a little money.
Used Parts Sales	One of their main attractions was selling used parts. Whether you needed an engine, a new tire, or just a little piece for your car, they aimed to have it. If the part wasn't on their lot, they'd use a nationwide locator service to find it for you, showing their commitment to helping customers get the part you need.
New Parts Sales	Besides used parts, they also offered new parts, giving customers more options for their repair jobs. This dual offering helped them cater to different budgets and preferences. You can learn more about finding new parts on our site: Buy New Parts.
Title Service	Dealing with vehicle paperwork can be a headache, but North 54 Salvage Inc. made it easier by offering title service. This helped customers with getting or transferring vehicle titles smoothly.
Off-Site VIN Inspections	They provided off-site VIN inspections, which was super convenient for verifying a vehicle's history and making sure everything was legitimate without having to drag the car over to their lot.
Registrations	Need to get your vehicle registered? They assisted with that too, helping customers navigate the process of legally getting their ride ready for the road.
24-Hour Towing Service	Accidents or breakdowns don't stick to business hours, so North 54 Salvage Inc. offered 24-hour damage-free towing services. This meant your car could be safely moved to their facility anytime, day or night.

While their primary focus was on buying junk cars and supplying used auto parts, they generally did not sell fully operational used cars. Their efforts were more centered on breaking down vehicles for their components and recycling. When it came to shipping parts, there wasn't a clear mention, but their nationwide locator service hinted at a willingness to get you the part, no matter where it was found.

What Kinds of Vehicles Were Found in Their Yard?

As a busy salvage yard, North 54 Salvage Inc.'s inventory was always changing. They handled a wide mix of vehicle types, thanks to their business of buying junk cars. While they didn't specifically list every make and model, they were known for having a cool collection of:

• Classic and Vintage Vehicles: If you were into old-school rides, this place was a treasure chest. They had a reputation for housing classic cars that appealed to restorers and enthusiasts.
• General Used Vehicles: Most of the cars they bought were just your everyday drivers that had seen better days, making them a great source for parts for common models.
• Parts for a Wide Range of Vehicles: Because they could use their nationwide locator service, they could find parts for many different vehicles, including those harder-to-find components.

While the focus leaned towards older and classic models, their inventory of used parts would also include components from newer vehicles, depending on what came into their yard. It was all about what you could find!

Popular Auto Parts They Likely Stocked

Just like most good salvage yards, North 54 Salvage Inc. would have seen a steady demand for certain auto parts. Customers are always looking for ways to save a buck, and grabbing quality used auto parts is a smart move. Here's a rundown of the kinds of parts that were likely hot sellers:

• Body Panels: Doors, hoods, trunks, and fenders were always popular. A little fender bender? A used door was way cheaper than a new one!
• Engine Components: Big items like engines themselves, or parts like cylinder heads and crankshafts, were in high demand for major repairs or rebuilds. Thinking about rebuilding an engine? Check out our guide: Is it cheaper to rebuild or replace an engine?
• Transmission and Drivetrain Parts: Parts like transmissions, axles, and differentials are crucial, and finding them used could save a ton of money.
• Electrical Components: Starters, alternators, and even electric battery parts were often picked up for their good value. Need a good used alternator? Read this: Quality Used Alternators from the Junkyard.
• Suspension and Steering Parts: Shock absorbers, struts, and steering gears helped keep cars riding smooth and straight, and these parts were frequently sought after.
• Interior Components: Seats, dashboards, and other bits for the inside of your car were popular for custom jobs or just making your old ride feel a bit newer.
• Wheels and Tires: A good set of wheels or a decent tire could always be a quick find.

These parts were favored because they offered significant savings compared to buying brand new OEM parts. For exact pricing or to find out if they had a specific part, calling them directly was always the best bet.

Understanding Pricing and Warranty Information (Historically)

Specific pricing for parts at North 54 Salvage Inc. wasn't publicly advertised, as pricing often depends on the part's condition and rarity. The best way to get a quote was to call them directly.

When it came to warranty, most salvage yards offer limited coverage on used parts. This typically means a short-term warranty, maybe 30 to 90 days, for things like major components. Other items might be sold “as is.” For general information on used auto parts warranties, you can explore: Used Auto Parts Warranty: Salvaged Bargains or Risky Business?

Who Visited North 54 Salvage Inc.? Their Service Area

Given its location, North 54 Salvage Inc. wasn't just a local spot for Alamogordo residents. People would travel from surrounding areas to find the part you need and save some cash. Here are some of the places where customers likely came from:

• Alamogordo, NM: The primary customer base, right in their backyard.
• Ruidoso, NM: A bit of a drive, but worth it for those unique parts.
• Las Cruces, NM: As a bigger city, many might have made the trip for competitive pricing or hard-to-find items.
• Truth or Consequences, NM: Another New Mexico town that could have sent customers looking for bargains.
• El Paso, TX: Being relatively close and a major city, folks from El Paso might have crossed the border for specific parts or better deals.

These areas formed the core of their service area, showing how vital North 54 Salvage Inc. was to the regional automotive industry.

Interchange System: Finding the Right Part

While North 54 Salvage Inc. didn't publicly advertise an online parts interchange system like some larger chains, their knowledgeable staff would have been key in helping customers find compatible parts. In the world of salvage yards, experienced folks often know which parts can fit different car models. They might have used:

• Manual Inventory Search: Their team would physically check their yard for the parts you needed.
• Staff Expertise: Years of experience would mean they knew what parts were interchangeable.
• “Hot Lines” with Other Dealers: Many auto wreckers work together, using special phone lines to buy and sell parts wholesale. This helps everyone find those elusive items.

So, even without a fancy computer system, they were likely able to help you find that perfect match for your vehicle.

Entry Fees and Discounts (Historically)

Good news! There were no reports of an entry fee or cover charge to walk onto the lot at North 54 Salvage Inc. This meant you could browse their extensive inventory freely. While specific discounts weren't mentioned, the biggest discount was always the money saved by buying a used part instead of a new one!

Tools You Would Have Needed to Pull Parts

Like many “U-Pull” style yards (though North 54 Salvage operated more as a full-service yard with staff assistance), if you wanted to get a specific component off a vehicle yourself, you needed to come prepared. Here’s a basic list of tools that would have been recommended for a successful visit:

Basic Hand Tools:

• A good set of wrenches (both socket and adjustable).
• Various screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips).
• Pliers of different kinds.
• Allen wrench sets and Torx bit sets for those tricky fasteners.
• A tire iron if you were after a wheel or tire.

Power Tools (Battery-Operated):

• A cordless impact wrench for stubborn bolts.
• A drill with various bits.
• A reciprocating saw for cutting where needed (use with caution!).

Miscellaneous & Safety Gear:

• Penetrating oil (like WD-40) to loosen rusty bolts.
• Sturdy work gloves and safety glasses – gotta protect those eyes!
• Rags for cleanup.
• Water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days.

It's important to remember that most salvage yards, including North 54 Salvage Inc., generally do not provide tools for customers. You were expected to bring your own gear. For more tips on what to bring, see our guide: What to Bring to a Junkyard.

Selling Your Junk Car to North 54 Salvage Inc.

North 54 Salvage Inc. was a go-to spot if you had a junk car you wanted to get rid of. They were licensed and bonded, meaning they were a reliable place to sell your unwanted vehicle. Here’s what you generally needed to know:

Aspect	Details
What They Bought	They specialized in buying junk cars, meaning vehicles in various conditions, from simply old to completely wrecked. If it had a title, they were usually interested!
Payment Method	While not explicitly stated as “cash for cars,” buying junk vehicles typically involves paying out cash or a similar quick payment, helping you get money fast for your old ride. You can learn more about selling your car online: Sell Your Car Online Today.
Vehicle Condition Accepted	They were focused on buying junk cars, so they'd accept vehicles in just about any condition. Dents, dings, or dead engines – no problem.
Towing Service	They offered 24-hour damage-free towing, which was super helpful if your junk car wasn't running. They could come pick it up from your place.
Additional Services	Beyond just buying cars, they also provided off-site VIN inspections and help with registration services, making the whole process of getting rid of your old car smoother.

North 54 Salvage Inc. was not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), mainly because the BBB didn't have enough info to give them a rating. However, they were still a known and operating business in the area.

Memorable Moments and The Final Chapter

North 54 Salvage Inc. wasn't just any junkyard; it was known for its truly unique collection, especially of classic cars and vintage trucks. It was a real sight to behold for car enthusiasts and salvage hunters. The yard was even highlighted in various videos showcasing its vast array of vehicles.

Recently, the story of North 54 Salvage Inc. came to a close with a final auction. This event brought out collectors and fans hoping to snag a rare piece of automotive history before the yard's operations ceased. You can get a glimpse into the incredible collection and the yard's final days by watching this video:

This legendary yard, situated near Holloman Air Force Base, served its community well, supplying parts like the rear door of a 2004 Suburban and countless other components. Its closure marks the end of an era for a significant local business in the vehicle recycling world.

Finding Other Salvage Yards in New Mexico

With North 54 Salvage Inc. now closed, you might be looking for other places to find used auto parts or sell your junk car. While we don't have a list of other specific salvage yards in Alamogordo, New Mexico, you can always use online directories or search engines to find “junkyards near me” or “auto salvage yards in New Mexico.” To explore more options across the state, check out our directory of Salvage yards in New Mexico.

Common Questions About North 54 Salvage Inc. (Looking Back)

Here are some common questions people might have asked about North 54 Salvage Inc. and the answers, reflecting their past operations:

1. What services did North 54 Salvage Inc. offer?

   North 54 Salvage Inc. was primarily an auto salvage yard. They bought junk cars and sold a wide variety of new and used parts. They also offered handy services like title service, off-site VIN inspections, registrations, and even 24-hour towing.

2. What were the operating hours of North 54 Salvage Inc.?

   They were open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:30 AM to noon. Sundays, they were closed. (Note: These were their operating hours before closing).

3. Was North 54 Salvage Inc. accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?

   No, North 54 Salvage Inc. was not accredited by the BBB. The BBB stated they didn't have enough information to issue a rating.

4. What tools or equipment did a typical salvage yard like North 54 Salvage Inc. use?

   A typical salvage yard uses heavy equipment like cranes or forklifts to move vehicles. For dismantling, they use air compressors for pneumatic tools and sometimes hydraulic presses for metal recycling. Safety gear like hard hats and gloves are always a must for workers.

5. How could one contact North 54 Salvage Inc.?

   You could reach them by phone at (575) 437-4188. Their physical address was 7066 Hwy 54-70 North, Alamogordo, NM 88310.

6. What kind of vehicles did North 54 Salvage Inc. typically handle?

   They handled a wide variety, including junk cars, trucks, and other vehicles that were no longer running or were destined for parts. They were especially known for their diverse inventory of classic cars.

7. Were there any specific procedures for selling a junk car to North 54 Salvage Inc.?

   Generally, you would need to have your vehicle's title and any other required paperwork ready. Then, you'd contact them for a quote and arrange for either dropping off the car or having them pick it up using their towing service. They made it pretty straightforward to sell your car.