smythie wrote:some plastic explosives?
Perfect
As for PhatGT vs JapanParts ..
I think if you want to shop someone like Michael around, just buy somewhere else. He's a genuinely nice bloke, with heaps of knowledge who honestly tries to help people out. I suspect he is always trying to do the best for people, often putting their interests ahead of his. You can take advantage by being a loyal customer, but don't try to play a guy like that off against another supplier. It's an insult.
I'm sure many of you have noticed, I have a low tolerance for fools. That's why when I find someone like Serge (my mechanic for over 15 years), Michael (who I've now been dealing with for 3 years, but only met a few weeks ago) and a bunch of others from the guy who sells me my oil, to my butcher and fruit shop owner, I stick with them. It's called a "relationship" and it's not something people tend to value these days.
People think they have relationships with companies. I'm sorry, but you don't. Your isp, mobile phone provider, petrol refiner, even car dealership sees you as a customer and nothing more. You can however form relationships with people over time and that can of itself be more rewarding than saving a buck or two. The thing is, I think my relationships save me money simply because I know these people will never rip me off.
Thanks for all your help Michael. Now where are my fucking brake pads?