Since my last post on this matter, I've been staying on top of things by periodically checking on the status of the rear diff. group buy. Well, as all of you know, I stated the rear diffs should be ready at or around 12/15. This was stated to me by Dinan, who got their information from the maker of the "necessary" ring & pinion. We all know that 12/15 came and left and the Dinan rear diff. was not ready. I therefore contacted my Dinan guy, to see what he had to say about this situation. He sent me a letter explaining the circumstances. I am including this letter so you men can read it and be aware of the exact circumstances, instead of guessing whether or not Dinan is going to come though on this deal. Here it is, please read on:
START
"Robert,
As we discussed, I'm doing everything I can at this end to determine when (with confidence) we will actually receive the new parts (ring and pinion).
I have certificates already prepared, as we discussed, with two missing pieces of information: the new part number (no big deal), but more importantly the time frame. As you know, I need to ensure that the Dinan differential (as opposed to the current assemblage of BMW factory components) is the product that is being sold and "rebated" against.
The offer stands, if that's the concern. I'd be happy to send a letter of intent to each of the eligible members if there is a trust issue with regard to the program. I should have more information shortly, but again I am at the mercy of a major OE supplier at this point, waiting patiently for a commitment. I can only hope that the group will be understanding of the situation. Certainly we have common goals, you guys want acceleration and I want to sell differentials. Motivation enough for me!
Hindsight being 20/20, we really should have waited until the products were in hand before projecting any date, but we were only passing along an ETA based upon the information we were given at the time, which was apparently very optimistic. Fortunately, the substantial quantities that we have on order will make this a non-issue as we move forward, but getting the program started appears to be delayed beyond what we would have expected a couple of months ago when we started this process.
I don't know who the person calling about the program spoke to here at Dinan, as I'm really the only one who is in the loop on this special arrangement and the new product, but if it's the gentleman I personally spoke with, we talked about production time, not receipt of the components. It would appear that I didn't communicate effectively on this point, for which I apologize. What I was attempting to communicate was that given our production capabilities for this product, with about 20 group members eligible, I projected it would take about 2 months to completely fill the orders. We are dedicating half of our production to the group member orders, which would take about 40 working days (2 calendar months). The question still remains, however, when the clock begins or more specifically, when we receive the ring and pinion.
I want nothing more, frankly, than to fill these orders! Our intent was to offer a gesture to the group with this rebate on an apparently highly desireable product. Unfortunately, it appears that I've inadvertantly succeeded in generating a bit of animosity. I understand the frustration, I share a fair amount of it myself at this point. For those who are willing to wait a bit longer, we'll have 3.45 diffs available as soon as we possibly can. For those who can't, please accept my apologies.
Rest assured that we intend to fill these orders as quickly as we can!
I'll keep you posted as information becomes available, Robert.
Thanks,
Scott
-----Original Message-----
END OF LETTER>
The letter speaks for itself. I feel bad you you guys and for myself, since I also desire the Dinan 3.45 rear diff.
As soon as I get any additonal info on this matter, I'll let all of you know the latest on what is taking place and when the product will be ready for us to buy.
Thanks for being patient. Im sorry for the delay.
Robert
Here is an update regarding the Dinan 3.45 rear diff. Group Buy situation.
Mike...................
Linear Mode
