I used to suffer like that with Canadian Tire, a cross-country chain up
here. It isn't just the dreaded "universal" term. It goes for anything that
is not specifically for a unique car.
I'll never forget going there and asking the computer monkey, er I mean
"Parts Consultant" at the desk for 6' of 5/16" gas line. "What cars that
for?". I gave the only reply possible under such circumstances, "It's for a
machine that uses 6' of 5/16" gas line". "But I need to know the model" he
bleated plaintively. I responded "Why, is 5/16" different on certain
machines?"... I was starting to collect an audience by the time I fought it
out of his hands. Frustrated? I was ready to wrap it around his neck in a
nautically correct clove hitch and stuff the loose ends up his nose.
Avoid the dreaded "Universal" term with anybody who doesn't look like they
know much. It will save you exercising the old blood pressure. That'sll keep
your universal pump in working order.
Mark Hooper
72 TR6
-----Original Message-----
From: Tommy Thompson [mailto:segerguy@yahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, June 18, 2003 1:56 PM
To: Stewart, Scot (GEAE); 'Fred Thomas'; Triumphs
Cc: spitfires
Subject: RE: Parts Stores== Slightly off topic===
I've stopped using those "Chain" stores altogether. I have
found a very nice little independant parts store nearby.
When the owner of the store helps you out, you know he
personally has something at stake in the transaction. I
also like the fact that usually there is not a long waiting
line to checkout! You might end up paying a few cents more
for the item, but the service and the knowledge of the
counter people are well worth it!
Tommy Thompson
73 TR6 CF1892U (Still in the Beauty Shop)
--- "Stewart, Scot (GEAE)" <Scot.Stewart@ae.ge.com> wrote:
> The wonderful world of clueless service. They don't know
> parts, they know how
> to look parts up for a given car in a computer system.
> I'm only 38, but I
> always go find the oldest guy behind the counter and
> start with him, here's what
> I want to do, any ideas what parts may work? The new
> kids on the block can't
> solve parts problems, they can only find parts on
> shelves......
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Fred Thomas [mailto:vafred@erols.com]
> Sent: Wednesday, June 18, 2003 11:26 AM
> To: Triumphs
> Cc: spitfires
> Subject: Parts Stores== Slightly off topic===
>
>
> Just came back from "Auto Zone" trying to compare
> electric fuel pumps and
> pressure regulators, I asked for a universal F/P & P/R,
> the counter person
> said "What Type Car" does this fit, sir I only want a
> "Universal", well I need
> a make/model car in order to get a application that it
> will fit, O/K I want it
> for a "Universal", well we do not have a listing for a
> Universal, what other
> car takes this pump, well try a Triumph, naw they're made
> by M/G and I know we
> don't make M/G pumps, well thanks anyway. Is it only me
> or do others get
> agitated when the "golden" words "What Type Car" always
> seem to come out of
> the counter person. "FT"
>
>
>
=====
Tommy Thompson (Segerguy@yahoo.com)
http://www.triumphowners.com/registry.cgi?sectionID=111014&vehicleID=10
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