A Salutory Lesson

General General Lotus Talk
1

There is an old adage that states if appears to be too good to be true, etc, etc well I have been caught out but thought it worthwhile to share my experience…

As some folk on here are aware I have been rebuilding a Formula Ford. Almost complete now but harnesses are date expired.

Saw a brand new set on ebay and placed the winning bid - considerably cheaper than from genuine suppliers.

Harnesses delivered, wrong size, if I had done some research I would have known, so relist on ebay.

Get a message from the harness manufacturer/importer telling me they are counterfeit :open_mouth: , call him and he points out various matters which confirm this - I immediately withdraw them from ebay.

Sent the harnesses to the manufacturer and he confirms they are fake but he sends me a set of genuine harnesses for a nominal sum - he intends to test the fake harnesses… Really appreciate his generosity on this :clap:

He informs me that a similar set of fake harnesses failed at 30mph :open_mouth: :open_mouth:

It’s absolutely frightening - If entered for a MSA event they will be picked up by the race scrutineers - but what about the guys doing trackdays totally oblivious to the danger of the fake harnesses that are ‘protecting them’??

These folk want driving out of town :imp:

2

Surely an old FF will fail at less than 30 Simon?

Not that I want to put you off fella. :unamused:

3

Erm, it’s not really anything to do with FF :thumbup:

4

How do you plan to use it Simon?

5

Full season of Historic FF next year Tim - if car and me can hold together

Really pleased how it’s turned out - like all rebuild projects you always underestimate time and cost :open_mouth:

6

Have you raised it on ebay. Feedback and with them direct?
Not for a refund but to let them know that this type of thing is going on.
Shock horror counterfeits on ebay, but in this instance life’s in danger, not just watch makers profits.

7

Would be great to see your car on track next season Simon, you will have to let us know the race dates :thumbup:

8

What he said!

[Where’s the ‘Like’ button?]

9

yep reported to ebay.

Have also been in touch with the seller who claims he bought them from a well known motorsport supplier - which I know to be totally untrue!!

On reflection the difference in quality was immense

10

:smiley: Don’t let it hold you back mate

11

haha

12

Let’s go to see him team handed a shuv a bat up his night dress!!!,