Air Bags

>I was asked to try to get some resolution on my own first.

Had your card been charged as yet?

John
 
Since so many purchasers had the "same problem" with the "same supplier" on
"the same item", it would seem to me that the credit card companies would
support the puchasers and not the supplier if the credit card companies were
aware of the number of purchasers involved.

Lorry

> In a message dated 11/3/1999 9:21:52 AM Eastern Standard Time,

>
> > >I was asked to try to get some resolution on my own first.
> >
> > Had your card been charged as yet?
> >
> Hi John!
> Yes, my card has been charged :(. $324.57
 
Re: all

I agree, but just a comment... this is an open forum for anyone to subscribe to
and the Archives are posted, so folks may want to keep some cards closer to the
vest. Keeping everyone aware of factual items is a big help, but maybe a point
person might be appointed for the group, for items that they may want to keep
more private.

Regards,
John

>>>>
Since so many purchasers had the "same problem" with the "same supplier" on
"the same item", it would seem to me that the credit card companies would
support the puchasers and not the supplier if the credit card companies were
aware of the number of purchasers involved.

Lorry
>>>>>>

> In a message dated 11/3/1999 9:21:52 AM Eastern Standard Time,

>
> > >I was asked to try to get some resolution on my own first.
> >
> > Had your card been charged as yet?
> >
> Hi John!
> Yes, my card has been charged :(. $324.57
 
When I called Craig on Thursday (10-28-99), he said he would contact UPS
on Friday (10-29-99), they would pick up in 3-5 days, and Arrow would issue
a credit. I put the box on the porch on Monday (11-1-99), but it wasn't
picked up that day. Then I realized that if anyone other than UPS got that
box, I was screwed. So I'm keeping it inside until I hear from UPS.
I've written my letter to my credit union about my Visa, and hopefully
they'll get involved.
In addition to calling the 800 number for Arrow in Elkhart, there's also
a phone number listed for the corporate offices in Omaha, NE listed on the
packing slip. I've not reached that point yet, but I may before long.

Robin
> ----------
> From: Adohen[SMTP:Adohen]
> Reply To: gmcmotorhome
> Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 1999 11:37 AM
> To: gmcmotorhome
> Subject: Re: GMC: Air Bags
>
> Air Bag Fiasco!
>
> I talked to Craig. I was not impressed with the response.( In my opinion,
>
> "tenative" )
> I tried to get specific answers to my rather direct questions. "What has
> been done to pickup my one air bag?" Craig" Ups was contacted on the 28th
> to
> pick up between 5 or 10" "Am I on this list for pickup?" Craig "Yes"
> "When will UPS pick it up?" Craig "3-5 days, if you are not availble for
>
> pickup they will leave a sticker to call" "How come only between 5-10
> were
> scheduled for pick-up?" no response
> "Am I on the list for pick-up?" Craig "yes" "My credit card has been
> charged for the purchase, when will my card be credited for my return?"
> Craig "When we get the bag returned by UPS" "So if you issued the
> pickup
> to UPS for my bag on the 28th my bag should be picked up today or
> tomorrow?"
> Craig "The pickup was issued on the 28 and they will pickup between 3 and
> 5
> days"
> __________________________________________________
>
> My suggestion is to remove the packing slip, using razor knife to make a
> clean cut. Copy the packing slip, put it back. Tape the slit up. Make
> sure
> you get some type of receipt from UPS for the pickup! I hope my gut
> feeling
> about this deal is wrong.
> I sure hope UPS picks it up like Craig said and I'm on that list. Maybe
> it
> is time for everybody to call 1-800-522-7291 and express their
> disappointment
> with Arrow in handling this problem.
>
>
> Scott HREF="http://members.aol.com/adohen/advice/index.htm">NEHODA'S
> BACK YARD
>
 
>Then I realized that if anyone other than UPS got that
>box, I was screwed. So I'm keeping it inside until I hear from UPS

You will want written proof that the merchandise was returned to Arrow. When I
went through this, I decided to return my stuff, insured and with a return
receipt, via the Post Office 'cheapest way', as the cost was not very much. I
don't know how this 'pick up tag' thing works for the consumer, as far as proving
receipt by Arrow. I realize it is free to you, but... I know the Post Office
receipt with the receiving clerks initials on it, worked for me with my Credit
Card Company. And that was with a Credit Card Company that seemed to be leaning
toward the vendors side and wanted proof that it was returned. The 'Return Tag'
may be just as good, but keep your eyes open!

No rush on this, but if I have something to say that should not be posted in the
clear, to whom should I send it?

John
 
My brother-in-law (a retired cop) went back to work for a few years as a
credit card fraud investigator. Trust me, these guys share a LOT of
information to spot trends which would impact their ability to get their
dough. If everyone having this problem with Arrow makes a point to send
that dispute letter and makes conspicious mention of Arrow, the word will
get around to most of them. Mentioning the scope of the problem (numbers of
us who are still holding our left one waiting for the big brown truck) in
those letters is also a way to flag them to check these guys out. If
they're gonna try to stiff us, I can almost guarantee they've tried this
before and some of the credit card firms have a file on them.
Dick 75 PB in Atlanta

>Since so many purchasers had the "same problem" with the "same supplier" on
>"the same item", it would seem to me that the credit card companies would
>support the puchasers and not the supplier if the credit card companies were
>aware of the number of purchasers involved.
>
>Lorry
>

>
>> In a message dated 11/3/1999 9:21:52 AM Eastern Standard Time,

>>
>> > >I was asked to try to get some resolution on my own first.
>> >
>> > Had your card been charged as yet?
>> >
>> Hi John!
>> Yes, my card has been charged :(. $324.57
>
>
 
Hi Dick...

>John, I HOPE Arrow is monitoring this traffic (although Craig has told me
>they do not).

I realize that you do, and I see nothing wrong with letting everyone know that
the power of knowledgeable, connected, and cooperating consumers is at work here.
And that can be very powerful. I was just suggesting that there might be a thing
or two in the future that we might want to all know about (as far as tactics of
handling this specific incident) without everyone else with a browser or a
subscription knowing. Scott just suggested, he might help in that area.

>If Arrow gets some idea of how many folks out here have their
>boxers in a bundle, we might be able to avoid the next steps in the process.

Don't they have a shipping manifest... it's everyone.... no?

Hey Dick, I'm on your our side... Shout it Out! (and there are too many people
with the same misunderstanding as Lorry said this morning)

John
 
John, I HOPE Arrow is monitoring this traffic (although Craig has told me
they do not). If Arrow gets some idea of how many folks out here have their
boxers in a bundle, we might be able to avoid the next steps in the process.
I got nothin' to hide -- or keep close to the old vest -- in this matter.
Seems to me WE'RE the aggrieved parties.
And, as a matter of fact, it these guys ARE not on the up and up (and, to be
fair, the jury is still out on that -- but ringing for the bailiff as we
speak), I'd like as many other folks to be aware of that so THEY might avoid
similar problems.
Dick 75 PB in Atlanta

>Re: all
>
>I agree, but just a comment... this is an open forum for anyone to subscribe to
>and the Archives are posted, so folks may want to keep some cards closer to the
>vest. Keeping everyone aware of factual items is a big help, but maybe a point
>person might be appointed for the group, for items that they may want to keep
>more private.
>
>Regards,
> John
>
>>>>>
>Since so many purchasers had the "same problem" with the "same supplier" on
>"the same item", it would seem to me that the credit card companies would
>support the puchasers and not the supplier if the credit card companies were
>aware of the number of purchasers involved.
>
>Lorry
>>>>>>>

>
>> In a message dated 11/3/1999 9:21:52 AM Eastern Standard Time,

>>
>> > >I was asked to try to get some resolution on my own first.
>> >
>> > Had your card been charged as yet?
>> >
>> Hi John!
>> Yes, my card has been charged :(. $324.57
>
>
 
No big brown truck here either. Because I had a funny feeling about
these
guys,
That's it! Day 5 and the big brown truck stopped again, dropped off a
box of Kroil, did not pick up my "set" of air bags.

Called Craig at Arrow. He said that as they (the air bags) arrived he
was issuing pick up slips in batches of 5. There is really no telling
when this thing is going to be picked up. (Or, I'm afraid, IF!) Damn,
I hate the thought of falling for a free lunch!
Steve Ferguson
San Diego
 
I just got a very nice phone call from my credit union VISA department in
response to the letter I sent to them yesterday about this issue. They said
that they are crediting my account for the full amount, and that they will
handle getting their money back from Arrow. They also said that Arrow will
probably respond quickly to issuing a call tag with UPS once they find that
their account has been debited. I'm glad the end of this is in sight, for me
at least.
Robin

> ----------
> From: Steven D. Ferguson[SMTP:botiemad]
> Reply To: gmcmotorhome
> Sent: Wednesday, November 03, 1999 9:03 PM
> To: gmcmotorhome
> Subject: GMC: Air Bags
>
>
> No big brown truck here either. Because I had a funny feeling about
> these
> guys,
> That's it! Day 5 and the big brown truck stopped again, dropped off a
> box of Kroil, did not pick up my "set" of air bags.
>
> Called Craig at Arrow. He said that as they (the air bags) arrived he
> was issuing pick up slips in batches of 5. There is really no telling
> when this thing is going to be picked up. (Or, I'm afraid, IF!) Damn,
> I hate the thought of falling for a free lunch!
> Steve Ferguson
> San Diego
>
 
Air bag rupture would not leave you dead in your tracks. You can creep
along with a total air failure assuming you do not have oversize tires.
You can also insert a length of 4x4 or a bar sold by Ragussa in place of
the bag and drive carefully to a nearby layover spot. Best to carry an
old air bag as a spare or better yet switch to a 4-bag susension where the
failed bag can be isolated from the system. New bags for the 4-bag system
are readily available and cost about $125. New standard bags are getting
scarce and cost upwards to $300.
Gary
North Bend, Oregon Coast

> I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on everything
> about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
> the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
> stopped in your tracks.
>
> Thanks,
> Bob
> rsteele
 
No problem. A nice 4 X 4 of the correct length and a couple of big lag
bolts will get you on the road temporarily.

bdub
Central Texas
76 Palm Beach

>I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on everything
>about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
>the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
>stopped in your tracks.
>
>Thanks,
>Bob
>rsteele
 
most knowledgable GMCers carry an adjustable rod, or piece of wood with
screws to replace the air bag if it should get destroyed.

>I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on everything
>about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
>the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
>stopped in your tracks.
>
>Thanks,
>Bob
>rsteele
>
>
 
Bob,
With an OEM air bag system, you will answer the question "How high does a
steel frame bounce?"

You are planted if the air bag blows. This is why smart GMCers carry an
extra air bag and the jacks & tools to do an in flight air bag swap. You
are also out of the water if a tire blows!

If you have the updated 4 air bag system, you would be able to drive with 1
blown bag or even 1 blown tire.

The reality is do not get out with weather checked air bags or tires and
look out for road hazards!

Buy a GMC, help perserve an endangered species,

Jim Bounds
- ----------------------

>I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on everything
>about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
>the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
>stopped in your tracks.
>
>Thanks,
>Bob
>rsteele
>
>
 
I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on everything
about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
stopped in your tracks.

Thanks,
Bob
rsteele
 
Another alternative they talked about was having a threaded bolt that you
could insert for the air bag and still run. I carry one with me and "happly"
have not had to use it.
al

> Air bag rupture would not leave you dead in your tracks. You can creep
> along with a total air failure assuming you do not have oversize tires.
> You can also insert a length of 4x4 or a bar sold by Ragussa in place of
> the bag and drive carefully to a nearby layover spot. Best to carry an
> old air bag as a spare or better yet switch to a 4-bag susension where the
> failed bag can be isolated from the system. New bags for the 4-bag system
> are readily available and cost about $125. New standard bags are getting
> scarce and cost upwards to $300.
> Gary
> North Bend, Oregon Coast

>
> > I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on everything
> > about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
> > the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
> > stopped in your tracks.
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Bob
> > rsteele
 
Bob Steele wrote: >

Bob, please excuse me if the "Digest Delay" makes this redundant and
repetitive, as I'm sure there will be many responses to your question.

If you blow an air bag, you'd pretty well be parked. But there are
several solutions to this unlikely dilemma.
- - Some folks carry a spare air bag, but then there are the questions of
aging rubber, possible undiscovered leaks, storage space, etc.
- - You can fashion an air bag substitute from an 18", 3/4 " threaded rod
and 2 nuts. ( See GMC Motorhome News, June 1998)
- -You can purchase a nice air bag substitute from Ragusa. Same principle.
- - You could even use a length of wood 4X4 as a substitute.
*Note: any of these air bag substitutes would result in diminished ride
quality and reduced speeds.
- - You could call any of several suppliers and have a new air bag
overnighted to your location. (Trust me, they are not hard to install.)

Air bags are subject to "hot dogging" and weather checking, yet I don't
recall very many tales of air bag blowouts here on the 'net.

If this is a stumbling block to potential GMC ownership, I think it
should be relegated to the "not a problem" category. IMHO, of course!

Tim Brown
78 Royale
Jackson Mich

http://community.webtv.net/tbrown78/TimBrownsGMC
 
>No problem. A nice 4 X 4 of the correct length and a couple of big lag
>bolts will get you on the road temporarily.
>bdub

>>I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on everything
>>about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
>>the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
>>stopped in your tracks.

When a blowout (Rt. middle, LRD, ~6YO :^) took out my airline tubing and
left me with no right suspension, I just dropped the left side and kept the
speed to below 25-30 MPH for the remainder of the trip - about 50 miles back
home. According to Wes Coughlin, (1) dropping the left side was the right
thing to do and (2) I was probably riding on my shocks and it probably would
damage the shocks. I haven't changed them yet and have noted no ill effects.

However, after this happened, I started wondering about filling one of my
old airbags with silicon caulk or sealer, allowing it to cure and carrying
it as a spare in case this problem re-occurs. This would work without a
functioning air supply or bag. Anyone have any thoughts or comments on the
feasibility of a silicon filled airbag as a spare?

Cheers,
Marion Hope
(77 Kingsley)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
George M.(Marion) Hope, Ph.D.
1930 SW 19th Way gmhope
Gainesville, FL 32608 gmhope
(352) 371-2795 (Home) (352) 846-2111 (Office)
 
Marion:

Filling an air bag with silicon would not be my choice. I would guess that
much silicon would cost more than the $38.00 Ragusa wants for their air-bag
rod, let alone the time and effort to fill the bag plus accomodating the
bulk of the bag for storage.

Paul Bartz

From: G.M. Hope
Sent: 11/17/99 6:15 PM

>No problem. A nice 4 X 4 of the correct length and a couple of big lag

>bolts will get you on the road temporarily.
>bdub

>>I am considering buying a GMC and so have been reading up on
everything
>>about them. I have a question & I can't find an answer; if you are on
>>the road and an air bag breaks can the unit still be driven or are you
>>stopped in your tracks.

When a blowout (Rt. middle, LRD, ~6YO :^) took out my airline tubing and
left me with no right suspension, I just dropped the left side and kept
the
speed to below 25-30 MPH for the remainder of the trip - about 50 miles
back
home. According to Wes Coughlin, (1) dropping the left side was the
right
thing to do and (2) I was probably riding on my shocks and it probably
would
damage the shocks. I haven't changed them yet and have noted no ill
effects.

However, after this happened, I started wondering about filling one of
my
old airbags with silicon caulk or sealer, allowing it to cure and
carrying
it as a spare in case this problem re-occurs. This would work without a
functioning air supply or bag. Anyone have any thoughts or comments on
the
feasibility of a silicon filled airbag as a spare?

Marion Hope
 
Marion, that sounds like a really good idea. Much less ridged
than a solid wood or metal spacer.

Scott Shean
Baton Rouge, LA
78 Royale

>Anyone have any
>thoughts or comments on the
>feasibility of a silicon filled airbag as a spare?
>
>Cheers,
>Marion Hope
>(77 Kingsley)
>
>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
>George M.(Marion) Hope, Ph.D.
>1930 SW 19th Way gmhope
>Gainesville, FL 32608 gmhope
>(352) 371-2795 (Home) (352) 846-2111 (Office)
>
>