Aircraft Spruce Rant

[Doug Palmer]

I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for some
reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and get
it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and I
get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.

Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times they
shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house. Most
companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some sort of
customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these guys, hell,
they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.

I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already went
with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support and
good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several other
larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must say, I
enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are friendly and
there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a northern
California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill the order
it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.

I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some of
the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include Wicks,
B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky Ranch.
I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.

BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be seen at
http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm

Thanks for listening!

Doug

[Morgans[_2_]]

"Doug Palmer" > wrote

> BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be seen at
> http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm

Nice project. Interesting, but I don't see many of those being built, do you?

I would love to have an amphibian, too.

Oh, one thing, though....

It won't fly like that. An interesting boat, perhaps! <g>
--
Jim in NC

[Anthony W]

"Doug Palmer" > wrote
> BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be
> seen at http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm

What engine do you have in it? I can't make it out from the pix. It's
definitely cool, how long before you have the wings on and get it flying?

Tony

[DonMorrisey]

Hi Doug.

That's an amazingly interesting airplane and it looks like you have
done one hell of a job. I only hope mine (BushCaddy R-120) comes out
half as nice.

I agree you with you on the folks at Wicks, I have had great luck with
them. Unfortunately they don't have the selection or inventory that
Spruce has but they're adding more all the time. They had a great
special at Oshkosh this year. 10% off just about anything they had in
the catalogue and free shipping. I placed a huge order and saved the
cost of my trip.

Good luck on wrapping up the project.

Don...

[wright1902glider]

Ever pick up a will-call order at Wick's? The pipe organ factory is on
the east side of the road. Aircraft stuff is on the west. Aunt
Imogene's house is up and over two blocks. Grandma's house is down 2
and over 2 at 8th & Pestozzoli... wave if you go by. Stop in at Buzzy's
Diner for breakfast. And if you meet any Freys, they're related to me
somehow.

My Mom and sister are planning to move back to IL in the next year or
so. If that happens, I may start making a run from Denver to Highland
once or twice a year with my truck. Might be able to help a few fellas
out.

Harry "yep, we're from there" Frey

[Jerry Springer]

Doug Palmer wrote:
> I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
> states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
> bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for some
> reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and get
> it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and I
> get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
>

> Thanks for listening!
>
> Doug
>
>

YOU WILL be hearing from Jim Irwin now. :-) He sent me personal email
when I complained. They have rude customer service, but as others have
said they have great inventory.

[Peter Dohm]

> >I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> >Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
> >states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
> >bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for
some
> >reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and
get
> >it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and I
> >get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
>
> You do know about the smooth prime horror stories, I hope?

The OP may know, but I don't and may not be alone. So please enlighten me
as I still plan to build a plastic composite aircraft.

Peter

[Doug Palmer]

Thanks for all the compliments folks. Sounds like others have enjoyed the
wicks experience. My point wasn't necessarily to stay away from Spruce,
they do have a huge inventory, but to give the smaller guys a chance because
they seem to try harder.

The plane is a Spencer Amphibian. The flying surfaces are getting painted
now, I am hoping to have it airborne in the spring. Engine is a Continental
Tiara 6-285-C2, Prop is a 84" 3 Bladed MT reversible.

No I have not heard the UV smooth Prime nightmares, Clue me in. Most people
I know using it love the stuff. I did notice that Polyfiber changed their
recommendations for dry time from 24 hours to 3 weeks which did pique my
curiosity.

Thanks, Doug

"Doug Palmer" > wrote in message
ink.net...
>I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
>Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
>states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
>bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for
>some reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box
>and get it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship,
>and I get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
>
> Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times
> they shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house.
> Most companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some
> sort of customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these
> guys, hell, they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.
>
> I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already
> went with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support
> and good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several
> other larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must
> say, I enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are
> friendly and there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a
> northern California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill
> the order it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.
>
> I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some of
> the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include Wicks,
> B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
> Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky
> Ranch. I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.
>
> BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be seen
> at http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm
>
> Thanks for listening!
>
> Doug
>

[Morgans[_2_]]

"wright1902glider" > wrote in message
ups.com...
> Ever pick up a will-call order at Wick's? The pipe organ factory is on
> the east side of the road. Aircraft stuff is on the west. Aunt
> Imogene's house is up and over two blocks. Grandma's house is down 2
> and over 2 at 8th & Pestozzoli... wave if you go by. Stop in at Buzzy's
> Diner for breakfast. And if you meet any Freys, they're related to me
> somehow.
>
> My Mom and sister are planning to move back to IL in the next year or
> so. If that happens, I may start making a run from Denver to Highland
> once or twice a year with my truck. Might be able to help a few fellas
> out.
>
> Harry "yep, we're from there" Frey

Yeah, you could put a whole bunch of spruce in that new trailer you are going to
build. Charge some people half the shipping price, and pay for the trailer!

One thing, though. Make sure you have the roll-over problem licked, first.

You wouldn't want to end up with a couple thousand dollars worth of toothpicks!
<g>
--
Jim in NC

[Richard Riley[_1_]]

Peter Dohm wrote:
> > >I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> > >Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
> > >states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
> > >bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for
> some
> > >reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and
> get
> > >it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and I
> > >get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
> >
> > You do know about the smooth prime horror stories, I hope?
>
> The OP may know, but I don't and may not be alone. So please enlighten me
> as I still plan to build a plastic composite aircraft.
>
> Peter

Some percentage of planes with smooth prime under other brands of top
coat develop bubbles of brown goo after a few years. The original,
"matched" top coat - "Top Gloss" was removed from the market, it
stained, chalked and flaked off quickly

Read a couple of archives - here
http://www.maddyhome.com/cozysrch/search
and enter smooth prime wihtout quotes,

and here
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/canard-aviators/
and search "smooth prime" in quotes

[Dennis Johnson]

I'm nearing the completion of my homebuilt, which includes lots of stuff
from Aircraft Spruce. I'm very happy with them. One time, an order arrived
with the wrong length AN bolts. I explained it to customer service, she put
me on hold, went into the warehouse and confirmed that someone had dumped
the wrong size AN bolts into one of the bins. Came back on the line,
explained what happened, and mailed the correct size bolts to me right away.
I was impressed with her initiative; instead of just sending me some more
bolts, she tracked it down, figured out the problem, and fixed it on the
spot.

Seems to me that Spruce is doing it just about as good as it gets.

Best,
Dennis Johnson
Lancair Legacy; first flight by Christmas?

[flyboy494]

I too have had problems with Aircraft Spruce. Fortunately, my
experiences have been relatively minor in comparison with the horror
stories I have heard. Some of their business practices are quite
questionable. I will buy from Spruce only when there is absolutely no
other source.

Kent

[Kyle Boatright]

Doug,

I've ordered from a dozen different aircraft supply companies. With one
exception (Skybolt), all of my experiences have been pretty good. Spruce is
very good in my opinion. Having one order delayed by a couple of days
doesn't seem like a big deal to me, regardless of how much money you have
spent through the supplier.

The thing I have learned with all of the suppliers is to ask "Is the item in
stock?" and "If not, when are you expecting a shipment?".

KB

"Doug Palmer" > wrote in message
ink.net...
>I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
>Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
>states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
>bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for
>some reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box
>and get it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship,
>and I get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
>
> Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times
> they shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house.
> Most companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some
> sort of customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these
> guys, hell, they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.
>
> I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already
> went with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support
> and good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several
> other larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must
> say, I enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are
> friendly and there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a
> northern California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill
> the order it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.
>
> I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some of
> the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include Wicks,
> B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
> Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky
> Ranch. I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.
>
> BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be seen
> at http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm
>
> Thanks for listening!
>
> Doug
>

[Lou]

I guess I don't see the big deal here. It say right on the front page
"certain restrictions apply"
I can't think of any shipping company that ships on sundays, and most
people know that UPS
doesn't work on weekends, sooooo what did you expect?

[Doug Palmer]

NO big deal, When I placed the order I was told it would go "right out" so I
was dissapointed when a Saturday order didn't go out on Monday, then when I
called (on Tuesday) to find out when it would actually ship I caught the
"why are you calling" attitude. Well, why advertise that you can get orders
out the same day when you can't get them out given a full business day? If
the service agent had one iota of hospitality I would not have started the
thread. I mentioned that Spruce shines from time to time, but bottom line
is that the other companies do a better job with their customer service
agents.


"Lou" > wrote in message
ups.com...
>I guess I don't see the big deal here. It say right on the front page
> "certain restrictions apply"
> I can't think of any shipping company that ships on sundays, and most
> people know that UPS
> doesn't work on weekends, sooooo what did you expect?
>

[David Melby Cavalier]

Doug Palmer wrote:
> I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
> states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
> bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for some
> reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and get
> it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and I
> get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
>
> Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times they
> shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house. Most
> companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some sort of
> customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these guys, hell,
> they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.
>
> I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already went
> with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support and
> good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several other
> larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must say, I
> enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are friendly and
> there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a northern
> California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill the order
> it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.
>
> I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some of
> the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include Wicks,
> B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
> Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky Ranch.
> I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.
>
> BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be seen at
> http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm
>
> Thanks for listening!
>
> Doug

I find this hard to believe. I have been buying from Spruce for years
and years and have found thier service to be the best. Never a
problem. When I have called them about something, they have been very
helpful. Not the case with Wicks.

[jls]

Jerry Springer wrote:
> Doug Palmer wrote:
> > I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> > Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
> > states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
> > bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for some
> > reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and get
> > it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and I
> > get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
> >
>
> > Thanks for listening!
> >
> > Doug
> >
> >
>
> YOU WILL be hearing from Jim Irwin now. :-) He sent me personal email
> when I complained. They have rude customer service, but as others have
> said they have great inventory.

A year or so ago I got angry with them, even got on Jim's
do-not-sell-to-this-guy list.
I called and talked to the sales manager. He was very courteous.
Since then I have bought frequently and never had a nickel's worth of
trouble, quick service, kind and helpful people, except for one guy. I
called and got his name but never complained. Service overall has been
too good to complain. Every barrel always has a bad apple.

Looks like RV-driver Springer is even trading with them again.

Doug, call and ask to speak to Spruce's sales manager. Martacci I
think is his name.

[Morgans[_2_]]

"Doug Palmer" > wrote

> Well, why advertise that you can get orders out the same day when you can't
> get them out given a full business day? If the service agent had one iota of
> hospitality I would not have started the thread.

Did you ask for a reason that it did not go out in one business day, as
advertised?

If not, that would be a beginning. Perhaps (I'm only guessing) there was a very
good reason that it did not, like an important part of you order was due to come
in, and without it, it would have been back-ordered. Something "like" that,
perhaps. Still, it should be standard operating procedure for Spruce to call
and inform you (or anyone) of a delay, I would think.

If you did ask, but got no answer, then it is time to go up the chain of
command, very politely, though, until you do get an answer, even if it is only
an admission of "we dropped the ball.". I have always found that calm
conversation begets calm conversation and answers. People's nature is to get
defensive, if they are backed into a corner.

I'm not accusing you of being rude or less than calm, since I don't know how
this all transpired. I hope you have better luck next time.
--
Jim in NC

[.Blueskies.]

"Dennis Johnson" > wrote in message . ..
: Best,
: Dennis Johnson
: Lancair Legacy; first flight by Christmas?
:
:

Sounds like the fun is about to start...keep us posted!

[J.Kahn]

The Tiara was that geared engine that Continental abandoned in the 70s.
How many Tiara's were made? I thought there were very few out there.

Speaking of spruce, I was chatting with the gentleman at Western
Aircraft here in Canada and he said that remaining big sitka logs are
becoming totally sewn up by Asian buyers and it is just about impossible
to get logs that will produce anything but capstrip anymore. He is
starting to offer mil spec quality Hemlock as an alternative, which has
the availability of spruce 10-20 years ago, not being in heavy demand to
build Japanese temples and such. It is 10% heavier and 10% stronger and
doesn't splinter readily like fir.

John K

Doug Palmer wrote:
> Thanks for all the compliments folks. Sounds like others have enjoyed the
> wicks experience. My point wasn't necessarily to stay away from Spruce,
> they do have a huge inventory, but to give the smaller guys a chance because
> they seem to try harder.
>
> The plane is a Spencer Amphibian. The flying surfaces are getting painted
> now, I am hoping to have it airborne in the spring. Engine is a Continental
> Tiara 6-285-C2, Prop is a 84" 3 Bladed MT reversible.
>
> No I have not heard the UV smooth Prime nightmares, Clue me in. Most people
> I know using it love the stuff. I did notice that Polyfiber changed their
> recommendations for dry time from 24 hours to 3 weeks which did pique my
> curiosity.

[Stuart & Kathryn Fields]

Just finished two orders to Aircraft Spruce and the first was almost
delivered while I was still on the phone. Literally the order was placed
one day and I received it the next before noon. Normally only McMaster-Carr
provides that kind of speedy service. I have shopped several times trying
to beat Spruce prices and found their prices to be as good or better than
others.

--
Stuart Fields
Experimental Helo magazine
P. O. Box 1585
Inyokern, CA 93527
(760) 377-4478
(760) 408-9747 general and layout cell
(760) 608-1299 technical and advertising cell

www.vkss.com
www.experimentalhelo.com


"David Melby Cavalier" > wrote in message
oups.com...
>
> Doug Palmer wrote:
> > I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> > Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website
now
> > states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This
is
> > bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for
some
> > reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and
get
> > it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and
I
> > get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
> >
> > Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times
they
> > shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house.
Most
> > companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some sort
of
> > customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these guys,
hell,
> > they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.
> >
> > I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already
went
> > with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support
and
> > good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several other
> > larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must say, I
> > enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are friendly
and
> > there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a northern
> > California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill the
order
> > it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.
> >
> > I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some
of
> > the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include
Wicks,
> > B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
> > Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky
Ranch.
> > I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.
> >
> > BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be
seen at
> > http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm
> >
> > Thanks for listening!
> >
> > Doug
>
> I find this hard to believe. I have been buying from Spruce for years
> and years and have found thier service to be the best. Never a
> problem. When I have called them about something, they have been very
> helpful. Not the case with Wicks.
>

[BobR]

I have never had that good of a response from Aircraft Spruce but on
many occasions I have accused McMaster-Carr of reading my mind and
shipping before I ordered. Hell, they once even told me they were out
of stock on an item that would take a week to get and I still received
it in two days instead of the next day. Most orders from McMaster-Carr
have been received within 24 hours and those which were not were within
48 hours. I love dealing with those people.



Stuart & Kathryn Fields wrote:
> Just finished two orders to Aircraft Spruce and the first was almost
> delivered while I was still on the phone. Literally the order was placed
> one day and I received it the next before noon. Normally only McMaster-Carr
> provides that kind of speedy service. I have shopped several times trying
> to beat Spruce prices and found their prices to be as good or better than
> others.
>
> --
> Stuart Fields
> Experimental Helo magazine
> P. O. Box 1585
> Inyokern, CA 93527
> (760) 377-4478
> (760) 408-9747 general and layout cell
> (760) 608-1299 technical and advertising cell
>
> www.vkss.com
> www.experimentalhelo.com
>
>
> "David Melby Cavalier" > wrote in message
> oups.com...
> >
> > Doug Palmer wrote:
> > > I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> > > Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website
> now
> > > states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This
> is
> > > bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for
> some
> > > reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and
> get
> > > it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and
> I
> > > get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
> > >
> > > Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times
> they
> > > shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house.
> Most
> > > companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some sort
> of
> > > customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these guys,
> hell,
> > > they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.
> > >
> > > I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already
> went
> > > with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support
> and
> > > good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several other
> > > larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must say, I
> > > enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are friendly
> and
> > > there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a northern
> > > California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill the
> order
> > > it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.
> > >
> > > I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some
> of
> > > the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include
> Wicks,
> > > B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
> > > Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky
> Ranch.
> > > I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.
> > >
> > > BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be
> seen at
> > > http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm
> > >
> > > Thanks for listening!
> > >
> > > Doug
> >
> > I find this hard to believe. I have been buying from Spruce for years
> > and years and have found thier service to be the best. Never a
> > problem. When I have called them about something, they have been very
> > helpful. Not the case with Wicks.
> >

[[email protected]]

I think the magic word is "Saturday"

We arrived at ACS yesterday-- Saturday to pick up our FAXED order and
nothing but blink stares-- deer in the headlight looks.

So we'll pick it up tomorrow-- Monday.

I seem to recall having had problems picking up FAXED WILL CALL orders
on Saturday; in the past four years of building and completing the
RV-7A.

So, get the magic FAX number for Saturdays or expect to NOT have your 28
item order ready.

my minor gripes are long phone waits (long distance, cell) most days
after 1:00pm pst, high prices, published price plus 10% and "the
customer always made the mistake in ordering attitude."

The guys at the counter over the years have really been helpful though.
EXCELLENT-- But Gawd I hate hearing the horn. BEEEEEEP

FWiW

[Doug Palmer]

The folks at Aircraft Spruce have remedied my frustrations with the service
I received. They have, in general, gone above and beyond to apologize, they
have picked up the tab on the shipping, and made it a point to develop a
personal relationship with me so I know who to contact directly should I
ever have a problem in the future.
Thanks, Doug

[Lou]

Are you sure you shouldn't be appolgizing to them? After all, you
ordered on a saturday expecting a shipping company to work on sunday.
Frankly I would have told you to stick it. A lot of americans died
getting the right not to work on sundays and you want to blow that away
because you could think ahead of time. Maybe you need to go to work on
sundays just because I want you to.
Lou

[Plane Fun]

Re: Doug Palmer's message

Doug let the group know about his dissatisfaction with the delay in
shipping on his recent order, and I wanted to let everyone know that we
have apologized to Doug for the order shipping Tuesday instead of
Monday (order placed Saturday), and refunded the freight cost due to
the delay. We do ship about 98% of orders the same day they are placed,
but his order got hung up in the warehouse late in the day. Doug sent
me a very nice e-mail and he seems to be back on board with Aircraft
Spruce as a supplier.

I reviewed the responses to Doug's posting, and appreciate the response
with both positive and negative feedback on Aircraft Spruce. If anyone
has any particular issue or problem relating to dealing with our
company, please let us know. We do work hard to provide the best
quality possible, but if there is something we need to resolve, we want
to do so. Thanks again for your comments.

Jim Irwin
Aircraft Spruce


Stuart & Kathryn Fields wrote:
> Just finished two orders to Aircraft Spruce and the first was almost
> delivered while I was still on the phone. Literally the order was placed
> one day and I received it the next before noon. Normally only McMaster-Carr
> provides that kind of speedy service. I have shopped several times trying
> to beat Spruce prices and found their prices to be as good or better than
> others.
>
> --
> Stuart Fields
> Experimental Helo magazine
> P. O. Box 1585
> Inyokern, CA 93527
> (760) 377-4478
> (760) 408-9747 general and layout cell
> (760) 608-1299 technical and advertising cell
>
> www.vkss.com
> www.experimentalhelo.com
>
>
> "David Melby Cavalier" > wrote in message
> oups.com...
> >
> > Doug Palmer wrote:
> > > I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> > > Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website
> now
> > > states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This
> is
> > > bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for
> some
> > > reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and
> get
> > > it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and
> I
> > > get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
> > >
> > > Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times
> they
> > > shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house.
> Most
> > > companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some sort
> of
> > > customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these guys,
> hell,
> > > they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.
> > >
> > > I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already
> went
> > > with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support
> and
> > > good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several other
> > > larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must say, I
> > > enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are friendly
> and
> > > there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a northern
> > > California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill the
> order
> > > it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.
> > >
> > > I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some
> of
> > > the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include
> Wicks,
> > > B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
> > > Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky
> Ranch.
> > > I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.
> > >
> > > BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be
> seen at
> > > http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm
> > >
> > > Thanks for listening!
> > >
> > > Doug
> >
> > I find this hard to believe. I have been buying from Spruce for years
> > and years and have found thier service to be the best. Never a
> > problem. When I have called them about something, they have been very
> > helpful. Not the case with Wicks.
> >

[Dan[_2_]]

BobR wrote:
> I have never had that good of a response from Aircraft Spruce but on
> many occasions I have accused McMaster-Carr of reading my mind and
> shipping before I ordered. Hell, they once even told me they were out
> of stock on an item that would take a week to get and I still received
> it in two days instead of the next day. Most orders from McMaster-Carr
> have been received within 24 hours and those which were not were within
> 48 hours. I love dealing with those people.
>

I was beginning to think it was just me. I routinely get the e-mail
from McMaster telling me they had shipped the day after I have already
received the shipment. I frequently order around 1 am and the shipment
arrives the next day.

As for ASS I have no complaints about their customer support. They
have always been pleasant and informative with me.

Dan, U.S. Air Force, retired

[[email protected]]

Doug we are having your aircar fitted with the new engine we are currentley over from Australia and staying in Carmel for the week we are keen to touch base if your available
Regards
Adam

[351DP[_2_]]

On Monday, July 16, 2018 at 7:20:20 AM UTC-7, wrote:
> Doug we are having your aircar fitted with the new engine we are currentley over from Australia and staying in Carmel for the week we are keen to touch base if your available
> Regards
> Adam

Please call me (4San Francisco 1area 5code) + 336-8081

[[email protected]]

On Tuesday, November 7, 2006 at 7:15:42 AM UTC-8, Doug Palmer wrote:
> I have now been working on my project almost ten years and generally
> Aircraft Spruce and Specialty has been the benefactor. Their website now
> states that orders placed before 3:00 PM will ship the same day. This is
> bull****. I ordered two gallons of UV smooth prime on Saturday and for some
> reason they have not managed to put two gallons of paint into a box and get
> it out and it is tuesday. I called them to ask when it would ship, and I
> get attitude and an exasperated it should go out today sir.
>
> Dealing with the spruce crowd has been a roller coaster ride. At times they
> shine, then they will simply act like a third rate mail order house. Most
> companies after you have spent 40-60K with them would give you some sort of
> customer service and recognition as a return customer, not these guys, hell,
> they seem to go out of the way to tick you off.
>
> I'll be done soon, and not dealing with Spruce will be nice. I already went
> with Gulf Coast Avionics for my radios as they had good phone support and
> good prices - I highly reccommend. I bought my Wheels and several other
> larger cost items through Wicks, again better prices. And I must say, I
> enjoy calling the folks at Wicks for stuff. Their people are friendly and
> there is a family feel on the phone. Unfortunately being a northern
> California builder I often go with Spruce because once they fill the order
> it only takes two days to get here UPS ground.
>
> I guess the point of ths rant is to encourage builders to go with some of
> the other good guys. The folks that have treated me right include Wicks,
> B&C Specialty, Gulf Coast Avionics, RST, SKyGeek, Vans, Airparts Inc,
> Mezimer (MAC), Grove Aircraft, Aero Parts and Supply, Sacramento Sky Ranch.
> I'm sure there are others but I just cannot think of them now.
>
> BTW the project is halfway through being painted, some photos can be seen at
> http://www.whitealbatross.com/Webplane/index.htm
>
> Thanks for listening!
>
> Doug

I waited nine months for a refund for a Rotax warranty issue from Spruce. I can't put the entire blame on Spruce since Rotax is absolutely the worst at supporting their customers. I spoke to Jim at Airventure 2018 and he was very professional and promised to resolve the issue. When I finally became so frustrated 3 months later I emailed Jim and had the refund that week. Jim Irwin runs a family business and he cares about his customers. Their website is second to none and I still continue to buy from them.