What would YOU do?

[dpuckett]

AS the TDR members/ browsers know, I had a less than stellar experience getting my windshield replaced the week before SOP4. I asked for a windshield and weatherstripping, but got a windshield only, as the old weatherstrip was so hard they actually BROKE the first W/S. I sprayed it with a hose and it leaked, so I took it back, and they glommed some silicone/ urethane under the glass, and called it good. They said if I have any problems, let them know, and they'd take care of it.

The rainy season has now started, and I called the shop back and asked if they would cover the labor to install a weatherstrip supplied by me, since they charged me $80 more than anyone else in town for a windshield alone (I THOUGHT I was going to get new weatherstripping, but turns out my $275 bought windshield and labor only ; everyone else was $185-200 ). So, I am now at a quandry. With my criminal background and the law in this area, coercion is out of the question. What would be my next logical step? I have ordered a new weatherstrip, and hope to have it by the weekend, Mon at the latest (wont know for sure til CAJUN 93 gets back with me).

Small claims court? Better Business Bureau? What else can I do to get satisfaction (besides having automotive stuff done in the swamp, where at least a windshield can get installed right the first time)?

Daniel

[rbrettctd]

Better business bureau rarely scares businesses...seems hardly anyone check into BBB anymore. Id try to scare them by mentioning BBB or small claims as you mentioned before actually going through with it.

[dpuckett]

They me called back at lunch time, and said they'd actually stand behind their installation . I have an appointment for next week. We'll just have to see how it goes. After the cr@pola I've been through, I'll be happy to just have the windshield intact and not leaking. Another expensive learning experience, I guess, though not nearly as expensive as yelling at the one old man 5 years ago.

DP

[PToombs]

DP, be nice, be friendly, ask exactly what they're going to do, and what parts are going in. Request they glue the rubber to the frame, at least on top. Maybe even have them write it down, if the tech can read we can only hope!
PS, don't yell at anybody!

[dpuckett]

Yes, Pete, I learned at work, diplomacy first, then chewing on backsides when that fails. I get practice at both on a daily basis.

I called the other day, and explained my dilemma, that I had been charged for what I thought was going to be a new weatherstrip, and the rest of the whole nine yards, and they said they will back up their work, meaning free labor for self supplied weatherstrip. At least I dont have to take it somewhere else and pay another $100-120 for labor. I did specify I want sealant between the metal and rubber, and will remind them when I take the truck in.

DP

[PToombs]

Sounds like it will work out for ya then. Keep us posted.

[dpuckett]

I got them to replace the weatherstrip. Somehow, they managed to do it without breaking anything. So far, so good in the leak department.

When I made the appointment, the service writer ordered every part number listed. Guess what? The weatherstrip IS available aftermarket. It's not as heavey duty or pliable as the Mopar, so I had them install mine. It just turned into a $400 windshield. But at least I can see out of it and wont get wet in the rain (at least from the windshield- driver's weatherstrip is another story.)

DP

[PToombs]

Well, about time! Glad you got it fixed. It sucks trying to avoid the rain drops IN the cab!