The Joy of Running an Old Shed
Discussion
I love this shed thread 
I've been running sheds for years - it's hard to tell how many I've had, or indeed have. I have a little sideline on the business at the moment, hiring sheds as a long term hire. The last month has been busier than ever, with half my total fleet going out in the last month, giving some credence to the idea that people are moving away from main dealer PCP, and more into cheaper cars.
I try and get something that is £30 a year or less to tax, so this includes anything with a 1.4 or 1.5 diesel, and often the PSA 1.6 DV6.
But the DV6 cannot be older than 2010 - the time they changed the injectors from the front of the engine to the back - this seems to have made the engine everything it should have been from design, and seems very good. I have a Focus with one of these coming up to 175k without undue issues.
So shed rules - £30 a year max to tax, £400 to buy, and nothing German based.
Ford normally come out very well, and in my experience have run well and reliably for many years. The meganes do OK, except for windows. Yaris is always good, but it's hard to find a d4d for less than about £1500. Pug and Citroen are always nicer one would think, and seem to be OK for the year or so I've been running them. I keep threatening to try a Golf or something, but I've been permanently scarred by the problems that I see in the workshop, and just don't think I could stand the worry.
So there we have it - experience of some 15 odd sheds currently running.
I've been running sheds for years - it's hard to tell how many I've had, or indeed have. I have a little sideline on the business at the moment, hiring sheds as a long term hire. The last month has been busier than ever, with half my total fleet going out in the last month, giving some credence to the idea that people are moving away from main dealer PCP, and more into cheaper cars.
I try and get something that is £30 a year or less to tax, so this includes anything with a 1.4 or 1.5 diesel, and often the PSA 1.6 DV6.
But the DV6 cannot be older than 2010 - the time they changed the injectors from the front of the engine to the back - this seems to have made the engine everything it should have been from design, and seems very good. I have a Focus with one of these coming up to 175k without undue issues.
So shed rules - £30 a year max to tax, £400 to buy, and nothing German based.
Ford normally come out very well, and in my experience have run well and reliably for many years. The meganes do OK, except for windows. Yaris is always good, but it's hard to find a d4d for less than about £1500. Pug and Citroen are always nicer one would think, and seem to be OK for the year or so I've been running them. I keep threatening to try a Golf or something, but I've been permanently scarred by the problems that I see in the workshop, and just don't think I could stand the worry.
So there we have it - experience of some 15 odd sheds currently running.
bearman68 said:
I love this shed thread
I've been running sheds for years - it's hard to tell how many I've had, or indeed have. I have a little sideline on the business at the moment, hiring sheds as a long term hire. The last month has been busier than ever, with half my total fleet going out in the last month, giving some credence to the idea that people are moving away from main dealer PCP, and more into cheaper cars.
I try and get something that is £30 a year or less to tax, so this includes anything with a 1.4 or 1.5 diesel, and often the PSA 1.6 DV6.
But the DV6 cannot be older than 2010 - the time they changed the injectors from the front of the engine to the back - this seems to have made the engine everything it should have been from design, and seems very good. I have a Focus with one of these coming up to 175k without undue issues.
So shed rules - £30 a year max to tax, £400 to buy, and nothing German based.
Ford normally come out very well, and in my experience have run well and reliably for many years. The meganes do OK, except for windows. Yaris is always good, but it's hard to find a d4d for less than about £1500. Pug and Citroen are always nicer one would think, and seem to be OK for the year or so I've been running them. I keep threatening to try a Golf or something, but I've been permanently scarred by the problems that I see in the workshop, and just don't think I could stand the worry.
So there we have it - experience of some 15 odd sheds currently running.
How long do you hire them for? Dailies or do you do weeks? It’s an interesting idea. What rates do you charge?I've been running sheds for years - it's hard to tell how many I've had, or indeed have. I have a little sideline on the business at the moment, hiring sheds as a long term hire. The last month has been busier than ever, with half my total fleet going out in the last month, giving some credence to the idea that people are moving away from main dealer PCP, and more into cheaper cars.
I try and get something that is £30 a year or less to tax, so this includes anything with a 1.4 or 1.5 diesel, and often the PSA 1.6 DV6.
But the DV6 cannot be older than 2010 - the time they changed the injectors from the front of the engine to the back - this seems to have made the engine everything it should have been from design, and seems very good. I have a Focus with one of these coming up to 175k without undue issues.
So shed rules - £30 a year max to tax, £400 to buy, and nothing German based.
Ford normally come out very well, and in my experience have run well and reliably for many years. The meganes do OK, except for windows. Yaris is always good, but it's hard to find a d4d for less than about £1500. Pug and Citroen are always nicer one would think, and seem to be OK for the year or so I've been running them. I keep threatening to try a Golf or something, but I've been permanently scarred by the problems that I see in the workshop, and just don't think I could stand the worry.
So there we have it - experience of some 15 odd sheds currently running.
Monthly basis, minimum of 4 months. Not yet reached the maximum. 1 Megane has been out on hire for 3 years now, is approaching 80k miles with it current driver, and shows no signs of coming back in the near future.
I do all the maintenance and repair, and charge between £80 a month, and £130 a month depending on circumstances. But it's the responsibility of the hire to tax and insure.
Key for me is making sure the car is cheap to maintain - which usually means being up to speed on the maintenance - oil changes every 5k, make sure tyres don't loose pressure, no oil or water leaks, suspension is not rattling etc etc. So ironically, cheap to maintain means well maintained.
I do all the maintenance and repair, and charge between £80 a month, and £130 a month depending on circumstances. But it's the responsibility of the hire to tax and insure.
Key for me is making sure the car is cheap to maintain - which usually means being up to speed on the maintenance - oil changes every 5k, make sure tyres don't loose pressure, no oil or water leaks, suspension is not rattling etc etc. So ironically, cheap to maintain means well maintained.
bearman68 said:
I love this shed thread
I've been running sheds for years - it's hard to tell how many I've had, or indeed have. I have a little sideline on the business at the moment, hiring sheds as a long term hire. The last month has been busier than ever, with half my total fleet going out in the last month, giving some credence to the idea that people are moving away from main dealer PCP, and more into cheaper cars.
I try and get something that is £30 a year or less to tax, so this includes anything with a 1.4 or 1.5 diesel, and often the PSA 1.6 DV6.
But the DV6 cannot be older than 2010 - the time they changed the injectors from the front of the engine to the back - this seems to have made the engine everything it should have been from design, and seems very good. I have a Focus with one of these coming up to 175k without undue issues.
So shed rules - £30 a year max to tax, £400 to buy, and nothing German based.
Ford normally come out very well, and in my experience have run well and reliably for many years. The meganes do OK, except for windows. Yaris is always good, but it's hard to find a d4d for less than about £1500. Pug and Citroen are always nicer one would think, and seem to be OK for the year or so I've been running them. I keep threatening to try a Golf or something, but I've been permanently scarred by the problems that I see in the workshop, and just don't think I could stand the worry.
So there we have it - experience of some 15 odd sheds currently running.
Very interesting concept. Didn't realise there would be a market. Wrongly assumed shed fans would not be rental fans. Also that renters would want newer metal.I've been running sheds for years - it's hard to tell how many I've had, or indeed have. I have a little sideline on the business at the moment, hiring sheds as a long term hire. The last month has been busier than ever, with half my total fleet going out in the last month, giving some credence to the idea that people are moving away from main dealer PCP, and more into cheaper cars.
I try and get something that is £30 a year or less to tax, so this includes anything with a 1.4 or 1.5 diesel, and often the PSA 1.6 DV6.
But the DV6 cannot be older than 2010 - the time they changed the injectors from the front of the engine to the back - this seems to have made the engine everything it should have been from design, and seems very good. I have a Focus with one of these coming up to 175k without undue issues.
So shed rules - £30 a year max to tax, £400 to buy, and nothing German based.
Ford normally come out very well, and in my experience have run well and reliably for many years. The meganes do OK, except for windows. Yaris is always good, but it's hard to find a d4d for less than about £1500. Pug and Citroen are always nicer one would think, and seem to be OK for the year or so I've been running them. I keep threatening to try a Golf or something, but I've been permanently scarred by the problems that I see in the workshop, and just don't think I could stand the worry.
So there we have it - experience of some 15 odd sheds currently running.
How do you find people treat the sheds, do you take care of regular servicing?
Funny that cars you avoid are ones most people on the high street would think are the most reliable.
bearman68 said:
Monthly basis, minimum of 4 months. Not yet reached the maximum. 1 Megane has been out on hire for 3 years now, is approaching 80k miles with it current driver, and shows no signs of coming back in the near future.
I do all the maintenance and repair, and charge between £80 a month, and £130 a month depending on circumstances. But it's the responsibility of the hire to tax and insure.
Key for me is making sure the car is cheap to maintain - which usually means being up to speed on the maintenance - oil changes every 5k, make sure tyres don't loose pressure, no oil or water leaks, suspension is not rattling etc etc. So ironically, cheap to maintain means well maintained.
Sounds like a very interesting idea, and you can see how it would appeal to people who just want a cheap car with minimal stress. It probably says more about me than anything, but I would be extremely concerned about who the cars were being loaned out to and how they were being treated. I do all the maintenance and repair, and charge between £80 a month, and £130 a month depending on circumstances. But it's the responsibility of the hire to tax and insure.
Key for me is making sure the car is cheap to maintain - which usually means being up to speed on the maintenance - oil changes every 5k, make sure tyres don't loose pressure, no oil or water leaks, suspension is not rattling etc etc. So ironically, cheap to maintain means well maintained.
The comments you all make are exactly the thoughts that have consumed us over the years.
But our experience is that people look after the cars. Most come back cleaned and polished, and with no damage. Most blokes that go for this look after the cars, but many of the cars used by women come back full of rubbish - like the bottom of a handbag, but almost always undamaged and in decent condition. While we've probably been lucky, people generally want a car that will start and run with minimal effort, fuss and bother. Most people who have run old cars know that there is a degree of risk, especially come MOT time, so they are happy to get rid of that stress for something that works. And most people, at this end of the market, don't particularly care what they drive, only that they drive something reliable. And it's not far off the price of a phone.
We will give someone a car if ours breaks down (none have so far), so it's very 'safe' motoring. And if it gets too expensive - they can hand the car back. We also offer upgrades etc to those with a good history - so if you want, you can swap from a diesel fiesta to, say, a Volvo C30 that I had the other day. More money, but if you want you can.
My feeling is that this is of interest to about 1% of the market. Not huge, but it keeps me fed and watered, and has some potential for continued growth.
But our experience is that people look after the cars. Most come back cleaned and polished, and with no damage. Most blokes that go for this look after the cars, but many of the cars used by women come back full of rubbish - like the bottom of a handbag, but almost always undamaged and in decent condition. While we've probably been lucky, people generally want a car that will start and run with minimal effort, fuss and bother. Most people who have run old cars know that there is a degree of risk, especially come MOT time, so they are happy to get rid of that stress for something that works. And most people, at this end of the market, don't particularly care what they drive, only that they drive something reliable. And it's not far off the price of a phone.
We will give someone a car if ours breaks down (none have so far), so it's very 'safe' motoring. And if it gets too expensive - they can hand the car back. We also offer upgrades etc to those with a good history - so if you want, you can swap from a diesel fiesta to, say, a Volvo C30 that I had the other day. More money, but if you want you can.
My feeling is that this is of interest to about 1% of the market. Not huge, but it keeps me fed and watered, and has some potential for continued growth.
bearman68 said:
The comments you all make are exactly the thoughts that have consumed us over the years.
But our experience is that people look after the cars. Most come back cleaned and polished, and with no damage. Most blokes that go for this look after the cars, but many of the cars used by women come back full of rubbish - like the bottom of a handbag, but almost always undamaged and in decent condition. While we've probably been lucky, people generally want a car that will start and run with minimal effort, fuss and bother. Most people who have run old cars know that there is a degree of risk, especially come MOT time, so they are happy to get rid of that stress for something that works. And most people, at this end of the market, don't particularly care what they drive, only that they drive something reliable. And it's not far off the price of a phone.
We will give someone a car if ours breaks down (none have so far), so it's very 'safe' motoring. And if it gets too expensive - they can hand the car back. We also offer upgrades etc to those with a good history - so if you want, you can swap from a diesel fiesta to, say, a Volvo C30 that I had the other day. More money, but if you want you can.
My feeling is that this is of interest to about 1% of the market. Not huge, but it keeps me fed and watered, and has some potential for continued growth.
I know a lot people who don't care what they drive, as long as it gets them where they need to go and doesn't throw up any unexpected bills. This would be absolutely perfect for them. Whereabouts are you located and do you have a website? But our experience is that people look after the cars. Most come back cleaned and polished, and with no damage. Most blokes that go for this look after the cars, but many of the cars used by women come back full of rubbish - like the bottom of a handbag, but almost always undamaged and in decent condition. While we've probably been lucky, people generally want a car that will start and run with minimal effort, fuss and bother. Most people who have run old cars know that there is a degree of risk, especially come MOT time, so they are happy to get rid of that stress for something that works. And most people, at this end of the market, don't particularly care what they drive, only that they drive something reliable. And it's not far off the price of a phone.
We will give someone a car if ours breaks down (none have so far), so it's very 'safe' motoring. And if it gets too expensive - they can hand the car back. We also offer upgrades etc to those with a good history - so if you want, you can swap from a diesel fiesta to, say, a Volvo C30 that I had the other day. More money, but if you want you can.
My feeling is that this is of interest to about 1% of the market. Not huge, but it keeps me fed and watered, and has some potential for continued growth.
MrGTI6 said:
I know a lot people who don't care what they drive, as long as it gets them where they need to go and doesn't throw up any unexpected bills. This would be absolutely perfect for them. Whereabouts are you located and do you have a website?
South Wales - Usk area. Don't really have a sensible website - out business has always been pretty much word of mouth.
Am I allowed to link our current ebay advert?
bearman68 said:
I'm really reluctant to link an ad, but we are the 3rd cheapest Volvo C30 on Ebay, and the only one in Usk.
Found your ad for the C30, its listed at £80 if anyone wants to search for it.Really clever and useful business.
Offers fixed costs with no risk for the driver.
Lots of great ideas coming up during these unforseen times.
I bought another shed.
I didn't need another shed. I'm not sure if it is a shed in the traditional sense. But it was £500 and it's rough but runs right.
I used to own a Volvo 340 about 5 years ago but I was moving overseas so had to get rid of it. I sold it to my mate whos since modified it a lot and it currently has a supercharged 2.0 Renault engine, believed to be the only 340 to have one. Anyway, I've always missed the retro-ness and that same friend sent me a link for one on FB marketplace, 3 hours away for £500 on Monday. It took me about 4 minutes before I was on the phone to the seller and transferred over a deposit.
It'd been in daily use for the past 9 years, but had been parked up unused for the past 6 months. Toyed with getting it recovered with a trailer ect but in the end just went there with a few tools. It started up no problem and drove for 3 hours and 150 miles home without a hitch! Its 34 years old!
It's a 1.4, on 77k. It doesn't have a panel without surface rust on it. But then it doesn't have any issues that would hold you back from using it every day.
I'm well happy. Not sure what I'm going to do with it yet, or really why I needed it so badly. But it's here now and I regret nothing!
And a pic at the end of the day with the aforementioned supercharged 340 that I used to own. Rare to see one 340, nevermind 2 together!
I didn't need another shed. I'm not sure if it is a shed in the traditional sense. But it was £500 and it's rough but runs right.
I used to own a Volvo 340 about 5 years ago but I was moving overseas so had to get rid of it. I sold it to my mate whos since modified it a lot and it currently has a supercharged 2.0 Renault engine, believed to be the only 340 to have one. Anyway, I've always missed the retro-ness and that same friend sent me a link for one on FB marketplace, 3 hours away for £500 on Monday. It took me about 4 minutes before I was on the phone to the seller and transferred over a deposit.
It'd been in daily use for the past 9 years, but had been parked up unused for the past 6 months. Toyed with getting it recovered with a trailer ect but in the end just went there with a few tools. It started up no problem and drove for 3 hours and 150 miles home without a hitch! Its 34 years old!
It's a 1.4, on 77k. It doesn't have a panel without surface rust on it. But then it doesn't have any issues that would hold you back from using it every day.
I'm well happy. Not sure what I'm going to do with it yet, or really why I needed it so badly. But it's here now and I regret nothing!
And a pic at the end of the day with the aforementioned supercharged 340 that I used to own. Rare to see one 340, nevermind 2 together!
Edited by STIfree on Sunday 14th June 21:34
bearman68 said:
I'm really reluctant to link an ad, but we are the 3rd cheapest Volvo C30 on Ebay, and the only one in Usk.
Just had a look myself, brilliant concept! £85 a month for a fully maintained car and with a very good mileage limit to boot, can’t go wrong with that. I wish you great success with it!
I picked up another shed last weekend, it was for sale for all of 7 minutes and bought without viewing.
Turns out it’s better than expected.
Nissan Note DCi, averages over 70mpg, it’s mite until the end of the year, and is quite presentable. Albeit it requires a good wash.
All for the sum of £200
Turns out it’s better than expected.
Nissan Note DCi, averages over 70mpg, it’s mite until the end of the year, and is quite presentable. Albeit it requires a good wash.
All for the sum of £200
bearman68 said:
MrGTI6 said:
I know a lot people who don't care what they drive, as long as it gets them where they need to go and doesn't throw up any unexpected bills. This would be absolutely perfect for them. Whereabouts are you located and do you have a website?
South Wales - Usk area. Don't really have a sensible website - out business has always been pretty much word of mouth.
Am I allowed to link our current ebay advert?
BigMon said:
bearman68 said:
MrGTI6 said:
I know a lot people who don't care what they drive, as long as it gets them where they need to go and doesn't throw up any unexpected bills. This would be absolutely perfect for them. Whereabouts are you located and do you have a website?
South Wales - Usk area. Don't really have a sensible website - out business has always been pretty much word of mouth.
Am I allowed to link our current ebay advert?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FORD-MONDEO-GHIA-X-V6-6...
HwAAOSw9u9e4N-b
I'm not in the market at the moment, but this looks like it would make a really nice shed for someone. I really do like it
HwAAOSw9u9e4N-bI'm not in the market at the moment, but this looks like it would make a really nice shed for someone. I really do like it
STIfree said:
.
...
It'd been in daily use for the past 9 years, but had been parked up unused for the past 6 months. Toyed with getting it recovered with a trailer ect but in the end just went there with a few tools. It started up no problem and drove for 3 hours and 150 miles home without a hitch! Its 34 years old!
...
Good work there with your toolbox. ...
It'd been in daily use for the past 9 years, but had been parked up unused for the past 6 months. Toyed with getting it recovered with a trailer ect but in the end just went there with a few tools. It started up no problem and drove for 3 hours and 150 miles home without a hitch! Its 34 years old!
...
Another 6 years and it will be tax and ULEZ free I think, then an ultimate value daily.
Volvo looks good with yellow lens.
martin mrt said:
I picked up another shed last weekend, it was for sale for all of 7 minutes and bought without viewing.
Turns out it’s better than expected.
Nissan Note DCi, averages over 70mpg, it’s mite until the end of the year, and is quite presentable. Albeit it requires a good wash.
All for the sum of £200
Sister has one as the family car, it's like a van inside with the seats down. Even with the seats up they can be slide forwards to leave a huge boot and 5 seats.Turns out it’s better than expected.
Nissan Note DCi, averages over 70mpg, it’s mite until the end of the year, and is quite presentable. Albeit it requires a good wash.
All for the sum of £200
She's had it maybe 10years, petrol auto, only big problem was the fog light stayed on, seemed to be an ECU fault but mechanic added a new switch to turn it on and off 😁
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