IAP vs. Di Fatta Brothers vs. alfapartscatalog.com vs.Centerline

[Peter]

I've been using Highwood regularly, and have been very satisfied with their selection, pricing and shipping. Lately, pricing has been less favorable bc of the exchange, but still more or less competitive. Mailing used to be super quick, but somehow Royal Mail has become slower. Have not had the best experience with Centerline, I don't like theri web site, hard to navigate, and I believe you have to call them to order, which I simply don't like. IAP is super fast, but I have found their selection to be a little less on some harder to find parts for older cars

[ghnl]

I've used IAP, Centerline and Alfa Parts Exchange (APE) with good service from each. I like IAP's web site best (Centerline's has improved recently).

I like being able to call a toll-free number and talk to a knowledgable human - which has been my experience with Centerline and APE.

The only gaffe I had with IAP was when my wife ordered an item for a Christmas gift for me. She said she made it perfectly clear (over the phone) that this was a gift item - even arranging to have it shipped to a friend's house. IAP then sent me an email letting me know the item had been shipped...!

[karl-spider]

I like Centerline, Vicks, and IAP. Last Christmas my wife ordered me parts from Centerline & IAP.(She thinks boring, I think great) I recieved an email from IAP that my parts were on the way too. I thought it was funny. --B

[lowmileage]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghnl I like being able to call a toll-free number and talk to a knowledgable human

[Roadtrip]

Welcome to the BB, Michael. You're doing exactly the right thing by getting to know your new Spider's mechanicals. You'll find that you will enjoy it even more knowing what makes it tick and potentially save a lot of money by doing a lot of routine maintenance yourself.

Make sure you check the Suppliers' List thread under "Anything about Alfas" topic. I'd also highly recommend that you get a copy of the Alfa Repair Manual, either through a paper copy or CD.

[john.harrill]

I've used IAP, Centerline, DiFatta, APE, and Vick.
All are good, although due to their proximity, IAP is quicker.

APE (Alfa Paerts Exchange) was able to get me a 164LS ECU when no one else could.

[dwc]

Very pretty color on an S4 - in fact my favorite - best of luck with it. The only warning I'd give about buying parts is to avoid some of the junk substituted as OEM by certain vendors. I'm talking about unbranded clutch kits, hydraulic parts sourced from eastern Europe, Chinese-made wheel bearings and fuel pumps, etc. I understand the vendors are trying to keep prices competitive and margins high, but don't put these things on your Alfa, as you'll have to do the job again sooner than later. Ask about the origin of a certain part if unsure. I like, in no particular order, Vick, Centerline, Alfa Parts, and especially Highwood Motors (in the UK).

[wkennedy]

I have used IAP, Vick and Centerline--found all to be very good, but IAP is outstanding. They ship the next day and because I get my parts shipped to a NC business address I usually get them in 24 to 48 hours.

Have been to their facility in Charlessville--very nice place. They also sell non Alfa accessories under the name Autosports.

[wkennedy]

That's Charlottesville, not Charlessville. I lived in that town twice for a total of 10 years--you would think I would know how to spell it!

[Peter]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghnl Centerline's has improved recently.

[ossodiseppia]

Quote:

Originally Posted by wkennedy That's Charlottesville, not Charlessville. I lived in that town twice for a total of 10 years--you would think I would know how to spell it!

[JohnnyO]

I have used IAP, Vicks, and Centerlines with great results from all.

[AlfaAddict]

I have used all but Centerline and have had good results with all. I have found the most knowledgeable were Di Fatta and APE. But the bottom line is I agree with WopJob.

Quote:

Originally Posted by WopJob I WANT ALL OF THEM TO REMAIN IN BIZ.

[lowmileage]

Quote:

Originally Posted by AlfaAddict P.S. I have Hollywood in my (browsers) favorites but never used them. After reading such high praise I must compare them on my next order .

[NOMLC4ME]