rocker panels

[azygoustoyou]

So I have been checking everywhere to get prices on new rocker panels. I find there are OEM , plastic, and reproductions. If my thinking is correct, the OEM ones would be the best shaped to fit the car, the reproductions are more flat, and plastic that would fit but would warp slightly with temp. differences.

So I checking around to get prices and I'm finding the average price for OEM is about $145. Reproduction ones cheaper. And plastic the cheapest. I'm thinking I should get the OEM ones since my car is pretty nice.

What bothers me and the reason I'm even writing this post is I live close to a vendor here in New Jersey. I figure I'll call to get prices since I wouldn't have to pay shipping. I was hesitant to call because it seems every time I get a price from this vendor, the price is somewhat marked up. It's like they know I'm not paying for shipping so there's an additional fee or something.

Anyways I call to get a quote. I first ask if they had any OEM rocker panels. He said no, but I have a stamped set that is pretty nice. I figured... Okay, a reproduction set. SO I ask what would their price be????
He replied they go for $350 a set. I reply an OEM set goes for about $145 each. (Thinking quietly to myself. He's #ucking nuts). He said..well, the cheapest I could let them go for is $340.

I understand that business's have to make money. But come on! What kind of a mark up is that.
I suggest before buying anything from this vendor, you do a little research and know what your getting. This is ridiculous!

[mdrburchette]

Best to move along to another vendor. Good thing we have several to choose from!

[TulsaSpider]

Ok what's a rocker panel? The panel that goes from front tire to rear under the door? Is that what we're talking about?

[mdrburchette]

That would be it.

[TulsaSpider]

The fact that they make plastic ones kinda threw me!

[lanciahf]

Hey Brady,

I bought mine from Wolf steel, http://www.alfaparts.net/fiatspider.html. When they say OEM do they mean 30 year old left over steel from the Fiat days?

[azygoustoyou]

Thanks Ralph,
I ordered them. It was definitely cheaper. I didn't know all those parts were available there.
The ones IAP sells is a reprint of the old castings. Problem is they haven't had any discounts lately. I can't wait any longer.

[mdrburchette]

Wow, they have all kinds of sheet metal for the Spiders. Thanks for sharing the link, Ralph.

[azygoustoyou]

I had to pull three teeth to get that link. I think he's making a necklace or something.

[mdrburchette]

Glad it was only three, Brady. You may need to pull more by the time you get your car done.

[azygoustoyou]

I sure hope not. I only have two left.