I wish I was getting commisions from all the parts I recommend on over 16 email lists having to do with upgrades to Vanagons.
I prefer brand name items and gladly pay for them.
I have had great success upgrading many parts of my vans and clients vans, who are looking for the best quality, not the lowest price.
I will assure you that the UV stability of the cheapies is no where near that of the Mainco products, period.
You get what you pay for.

This has been stimulating, but you will not hear any more from me on this subject.

dylan

________________________________
From: Mike S <mikes@FLATSURFACE.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Sent: Sun, October 18, 2009 8:47:39 PM
Subject: Re: Dash Power outlet..?

At 08:16 PM 10/18/2009, Michael Sullivan wrote...
>Sounds like Dylan is trying to be diplomatic.

As in "avoiding the question?"

He won't answer a clear question - "What's the difference?" He's said
"I have tried the others...I prefer the Marinco," but won't say why. I
suspect that he _hasn't_ seen or used the identical-looking, and
significantly less expensive, one from MPD (via Digikey). As I've said,
I think they're the same (except for the name and the price). I have no
affiliation with Digikey (other than as a customer), perhaps he works
for Marinco or one of their resellers?