With 5 vehicles it seems like I have a constant project going on. This past winter I did a frame off on my 72, this spring I had to do engine work on my Durango and this summer I pulled the engine and am in the process of redoing the front end on my Sunbird.

Nearby my work I have 2 auto parts stores I frequent, one is a Carquest and one an AutoZone. I am in the stores so much that I am known by name. It is great to be able to call them up, order a part without prepaying and getting it promptly. I also can get loan a tools at the store without paying for them at the Auto Zone because they know I will bring them back.

I recently ran into a problem getting a ready mount strut assembly from the AutoZone. The manager made a mistake with the order first time and only one strut came in. He reordered and accidentilly ordered the same one I had already received. I called them up and they reordered again over the phone and told me it would be in next day (yesterday). In the mean time I ordered a window motor for my Dodge. I went in last night to get the strut and after a long delay the assistant manager came out and said that it did not come in because Gabriel was closed for 2 days for inventory. He had called the manager and he said that when the part comes in he will refund my money and give me the strut assembly, a $160. part.

Getting to know your local auto parts store and being a frequent customer has its benefits.

Many people bash Auto Zone, the service varies by store. I have the good one nearby work and they will continue to get my business. I cannot give the AutoZone closer to my home high marks, I detest going in there because they do not know a thing about cars.

Well said. People bash parts palces, but a good one is worth a lot. As a partsman at a dealership, I still rely on the NAPA, Zone, PEP, CQ, etc places for stuff we need when a used non-GM comes in. I know who I can get certain stuff through, who at each store I can trust and who I would rather have in the car vs answer the phone. Same with every other more parts specific place I use (brake warehouse, radiator/gas tank supplier, even salvage yards I have my people I specifically ask for). I also treat them well and only lean on them for help when I am really stuck. If I don't need it until tomorrow, I say so. If I need it ASAP, I tell them, but I also know I am not the only customer they have.