I also miss the days of high quality USA, European or Japanese parts
produced for other makes. Even in the ten years since I restored my TR6,
it seems people are having a lot more trouble finding good parts. I never
thought I'd lust after original Lucas parts......
But, as one who makes a living selling (non-auto) products the major
retailers you and I visit everyday, I can say the consumer ultimately
decides the level of quality available. We've tried to produce products in
the USA, but the consumer will not pay for it. Hence, we make all our
products overseas, our prices are low, and the consumer buys (making the
retailer happy). Price point is king and the manufacturer adjusts the
production process to meet that price point and make a profit. And, when
you subcontract your production offshore, your sub-contractor is not going
to take a hit either, and quality drops further.
Quality products cost more but are worth it in the long-run. I suspect
that's one reason why we like old cars, I know I do. But most consumers
just want more stuff, not more value. As the old saw goes, "If you sell a
high-quality product, you'll never be embarrassed. You may go bankrupt,
but you'll never be embarrassed."
Oh my, I'd better stop before I depress myself...
William Whitmoyer
69 TR6
90 BMW iX
91 CRX Si
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