Wheel Bearing Brand?
03-05-2010, 07:59 AM
#16
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It has been a while, but Dixie Bearings in Atlanta had them. Many years ago a mechanic claimed he had to search his sources in the Fatherland to find rare bearings for an older Mercedes manual transmission. Unfortunately the bearings were among the last avalable, and were therefore a bargain at $400 each. The counter price at Dixie Bearings for the NTN cross-over was $25 each, saving a cool $750.
03-05-2010, 11:37 PM
#17
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Steve- It looks like you're up against two problems: Negative feedback on *** and a stubborn shop manager. 
I'll address the latter. It's a delicate balance when you're trying to build a relationship with your local Porsche specialist. After all, he's the one with years of experience and there's no question that a newb like you should simply take his word as gospel. And I'm sure there's a very good reason why he fees the way he does and there is nothing you can do to convince him otherwise.
My suggestion is that you explain to him that, in this relationship, you're the boss and that you'll be making the final decision. Acknowledge his experience and expertise but let him know that you've also done your homework and will assume responsibility for any bearing failure. And if he can't accommodate you, then let him know that you'll be glad to have your car serviced elsewhere.
I'm sure you could get into a real pissing contest as you question his knowledge of bearings, OEM suppliers and the difference between what you purchased and what the folks from Stuttgart are selling (probably nothing). But why bother? This is about having fun and if this guys can't respect your wishes, then it's time for a new shop.
Good luck!
I'll address the latter. It's a delicate balance when you're trying to build a relationship with your local Porsche specialist. After all, he's the one with years of experience and there's no question that a newb like you should simply take his word as gospel. And I'm sure there's a very good reason why he fees the way he does and there is nothing you can do to convince him otherwise.
My suggestion is that you explain to him that, in this relationship, you're the boss and that you'll be making the final decision. Acknowledge his experience and expertise but let him know that you've also done your homework and will assume responsibility for any bearing failure. And if he can't accommodate you, then let him know that you'll be glad to have your car serviced elsewhere.
I'm sure you could get into a real pissing contest as you question his knowledge of bearings, OEM suppliers and the difference between what you purchased and what the folks from Stuttgart are selling (probably nothing). But why bother? This is about having fun and if this guys can't respect your wishes, then it's time for a new shop.
Good luck!
I decided today to discreetly call the owner directly to see if he shared the same position. He was much easier to talk with, and said that they will install the *** bearings, although he did reiterate that the Porsche bearings are superior and they would never use anything else in their race cars. But he agreed that my decision to use non-Porsche bearings for my situation was not unreasonable. He did ask me to check to make sure that the bearings were true factory replacements (which they are).
So, I have decided to go ahead with using the shop, and expect to have the work all done sometime during the month of March. I am really looking forward to driving the results, and will post any useful comments/photos.
Thanks again!
