OK, junk is a harsh word. I make hardware too. I just don't make as much as Speedmaster. I make stuff for people who tell me Speedmaster stuff is too flexible for their application. AND my prices are higher than Speedmaster.
I just took a look at the Accutech Hardware site, and it's the same stuff as Speedmaster.
Does no one have originality any more? Or does everyone think the same way? Oh, it works for this guy, so let's just make an exact copy and maybe cut his price a little.
I tell everyone, I refuse to compromise on quality and I will not lower my price. If I am told "oh, I can get it over here for less, I tell them that's the place to go.
I have had people replace Speedmaster with my stuff. Do you know what they do then? They reorder.
My signature line on other bulletin boards is "YOU CAN BUY GOOD PARTS OR YOU CAN BUY CHEAP PARTS, BUT YOU CAN'T BUY GOOD CHEAP PARTS".
I have seen others that say "you can have them good, cheap or fast. Pick two."
I am making some stuff for a gentleman who told me Speedmaster stuff is flexible so I bought a piece to see what he was talking about. NOW I see why he says it's flexible.
I realize their 3 piece rudder assemblies allow for a one size fits all base, but what's wrong with a little modernization.
Yes, they do make hardware for ALL types of boats whether it be electric, gas or nitro. At this point in time, I don't and honestly, I'm not sure I want to.
Brass bushings? Give me a break. How many times during a season or year do you have to replace them?
Tactfulness! GeorgiaScaleBoater, you're absolutely right. I call it like I see it, and I would expect none the less if I made an inferior product. Will Speedmaster make a one off part for you? I will. As I said in an earlier post, a one off will probably cost you a little more, but how many hardware manufacturers will do a one off. Most guys with CNC's want to set their machine up and let it run all week and hire a monkey to push the green button. I don't like making more than about 25 pieces.
I have a couple of jobs on the bench right now that are 60 pieces each and I am really starting to get bored.
RodneyPierce, Speedmaster hardware is the best you have EVER used, because you have never used mine.
Does Speedmaster put a warrantee on their product against defective workmanship or material? I do. My warrantee says "IF MY PRODUCT FAILS, DUE TO DEFECTIVE WORKMANSHIP OR MATERIAL, I WILL REPLACE IT OR REFUND YOUR MONEY, "YOUR CHOICE". The only thing I don't warrantee is the lead teflon bushings and I won't use brass.