While still searching their site for an used exhaust manifold, my phone rang with a call from Quality Auto Parts. From the information I'd entered, "Frank" said they had one: Exhaust manifold for a D50/ 1980 Plymouth Arrow PICK-UP, 4 cyl, 2 L, Chain Drive @ price of $270. Plus $3.99 processing, to be shipped in 5 to 7 days. To verify it was what I wanted, I asked that they send a photograph. "Frank" advised me they "can not take pictures in the warehouse"... (Recall here the TV ad where the guy says "Hello, my name is Peggy!" All involved have distinct Indian/Pakastani accents - no problem if they're honest and efficient, but on the other hand isn't that where the Gypsies originally come from?)
The following morning I checked complaint and read the litany of complaints about this company and called planning to cancel the order. I referred to these unfavorable reviews. They claimed they ship over 600 orders a day and negative reviews are few in proportion. Besides, my credit card had not yet been charged pending "quality testing" of the manifold prior to shipping. Hmmmm. I decided to roll the dice and go ahead with the order.
Utiliziing the UPS tracking number I learned the point of origin was Sidney, Nebraska. Obviously not from any inventory of Quality Auto Parts. The part arrived from Nebraska in a thin box; portions of the manifold protruding through punctures, and the entire box and manifold pipes filled with styrofoam peanuts - no bubble wrap. Upon examination? - - - Wrong part! What I received was not for a pick-up and of no use to me. Return shipping to the Nebraska salvage yard cost me $40. To my relief, Quality Auto Parts did credit my charge card the purchase amount, less processing, but of course, not for shipping.
Evidently Quality Auto Parts acts as agent, locating and ordering parts from wherever they can find them.
Nothing wrong with that, but a simple photograph might have saved trouble, time and money for all of us.
0 comments