One expects various pricing differences between dealer and independent
parts suppliers.  That's why parts distributors like BusDepot are able to
flourish.  Where I have trouble is independent repair shops charging
dealer-like prices for their parts, when it's no secret that there are much
more cost effective suppliers out there.

Case in point:  A local repair shop recently charged $500 each for new
heads on a 2.1L Westy.  That price was the just for the parts.  When it was
pointed out to the shop that heads could be bought for $400 from Bus Depot,
a flat "We don't buy from them" was issued.  Well, why not?  "Because we
mark our parts up".  No problem.  Buy from BusDepot and charge me $450 a
head. It's worth it to me, and I understand you need to make a living too.
"No.  We can't."  End of discussion.  End of story.

Too, there's a huge cap between suppliers.  Comparing prices between Ron
and say Parts Place must be an eye opening experience for the uninitiated.

Alan Bosch
& Phred ('88 Wolfsburg)