john in la
Well-known Member
Asked about a starter solenoid for my x320 mower a few days ago.
Looked on JD parts web site and local dealer has it in stock. With tax it cost 3 cents more than ordering from a cheaper markup dealer over the net and paying shipping.
So with all my numbers (including part#) and the old part in hand I headed out to the local John Deere dealer where I bought the mower. They have 9 locations so if you want anything JD you go to them or drive many miles.
I had already conceded that I would buy the part and put it on myself even if the mower was still in warranty. Not worth loading; hauling in; and picking up the mower for a $25 part.
But just for kicks I ask about the warranty. Was told warranty expired 9 days ago so all work would be cash. Did not even ask what kind of problem I was having. Told them OK I will just buy the part.
Part guy looks up the part and comes up with the same number we did.
Then the problems started.
The part is not the same as original. The mounting locations are different. The original bolt will not even fit in the hole of the new part.
OH well that is the part JD says fits; take it or leave it.
Guess I will have to try to make it work.
Then he gives me a price $3 more than what JD parts web site told me the price was.
Oh those prices are subject to change.
By now I just give me the part so I can get out of here.
I do not know who to be mad at.
John Deere for listing a part (I assumed it was subbed to this # over the years) that does not fit on a piece of equipment so new it is still warranty age; or the arrogance of the dealer personal.
You spend extra trying to buy quality name brand equipment;
You buy from a local dealer rather than a big box store;
And you get half a$$ make fit parts with a attitude of that's it take it or leave it.
To be honest I am very happy with this mower as this is the first problem I have had with the mower. I have only done maintenance work (oil changes; a belt; sharpen blades) on it for 4 years. But if this is a foresight of things to come I may change my mind about it.
I did get the part installed and mower is starting so I guess we will go with this.
Looked on JD parts web site and local dealer has it in stock. With tax it cost 3 cents more than ordering from a cheaper markup dealer over the net and paying shipping.
So with all my numbers (including part#) and the old part in hand I headed out to the local John Deere dealer where I bought the mower. They have 9 locations so if you want anything JD you go to them or drive many miles.
I had already conceded that I would buy the part and put it on myself even if the mower was still in warranty. Not worth loading; hauling in; and picking up the mower for a $25 part.
But just for kicks I ask about the warranty. Was told warranty expired 9 days ago so all work would be cash. Did not even ask what kind of problem I was having. Told them OK I will just buy the part.
Part guy looks up the part and comes up with the same number we did.
Then the problems started.
The part is not the same as original. The mounting locations are different. The original bolt will not even fit in the hole of the new part.
OH well that is the part JD says fits; take it or leave it.
Guess I will have to try to make it work.
Then he gives me a price $3 more than what JD parts web site told me the price was.
Oh those prices are subject to change.
By now I just give me the part so I can get out of here.
I do not know who to be mad at.
John Deere for listing a part (I assumed it was subbed to this # over the years) that does not fit on a piece of equipment so new it is still warranty age; or the arrogance of the dealer personal.
You spend extra trying to buy quality name brand equipment;
You buy from a local dealer rather than a big box store;
And you get half a$$ make fit parts with a attitude of that's it take it or leave it.
To be honest I am very happy with this mower as this is the first problem I have had with the mower. I have only done maintenance work (oil changes; a belt; sharpen blades) on it for 4 years. But if this is a foresight of things to come I may change my mind about it.
I did get the part installed and mower is starting so I guess we will go with this.