HO scale autos and pick up trucks.

[Mopac Junkie]

where do you get your automobiles and pickup trucks from. i will be looking to add some 30-40 of these to my layout - mostly for employee vehicles parked near industries. I'm not looking to pay $15 a piece nor do i want cheap junk with open bottoms. there has to be something that can be painted and doctored up that doesn't break the bank? any advice appreciated.

 

[Rico]

Sometimes train shows and flea markets have great deals, consignment bins in hobby shops too.
Occasionally Feebay has listings for lot sales.
A while back Wallyworld was selling a series of 1/87 cars called “fresh cherries”, I picked up a few dozen for two bucks each.

 

[shortwrench]

I watch for them to go on sale at Walthers. Usually can buy enough so the
shipping charge is not just for one item.

I've had the best luck at train shows. Keep an eye on the boxes under the tables.

Occasionally Matchbox and Hot Wheels cars at the grocery store.

 

[logandsawman]

Train shows are a good place.

I buy kits from ebay almost exclusively, however they take time to assemble.

Walthers has a wide selection of ready to go models in all eras.

 

[CambriaArea51]

I've found the in odd places, Tractor Supply, Walmart other sites like 3000 toys and Amazon but prices are all over the place.

 

[santafewillie]

Rico-

A while back Wallyworld was selling a series of 1/87 cars called “fresh cherries”, I picked up a few dozen for two bucks each.

That was quite a while back. I got a few dozen myself!
Mopac
The best that I know of right now, are the imported ones from Oxford. My LHS is a discounter and sells them for a bit under $10 each. They are well detailed, mostly 50's -70's and are high quality. Best of all, for me at least, is they are held together with 2 screws and can be taken apart for easier dull-coating and figure additions.