CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => General Discussion => Topic started by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 01:00:33 PM

Title: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 01:00:33 PM
Normally I don't say much about vendors unless they go above and beyond. HBC advertises "Made in the USA" on their premium gas tank EGP-1003. I called and they said it was the Spectra tank I was looking for. It was a pretty good sale, so I drove up to Shelbyville to pick it up. I could have gotten it from Rock Auto for a couple dollars less, but I like to shop the brick and mortar when I can. Normally they ask $152.26 for the $100 tank. It was on sale for 9% off, so $138.75. Then they have their 20% off sale right now. $111.00. When I get there, Jim tries to screw me out of the sale price and tells me it's still a great deal because it's Made in the USA. He was trying to charge me 20% off the full price saying normally it isn't a discount item. Luckily I put a bunch of things in my cart on line as a shopping list and brought the print out with me. He didn't care. Luckily someone else rang it up and I was able to argue it and got it for $111.00. I should have left it, but it was a long drive.
To top it all off, I got it home and even though all the HBC stickers on the box say "Made in the USA", it says, "Made in Canada" inside all over the tank. No disrespect to Canada here, but when I am told it is Made in the USA, it had damn well better be. No response to my email questioning this... Still advertised on the website with USA made.

(http://i1164.photobucket.com/albums/q573/SgtHawkUSMC/69%20Camaro%20SS396%20L34/69%20Gas%20Tank/IMG_20160329_072359.jpg) (http://s1164.photobucket.com/user/SgtHawkUSMC/media/69%20Camaro%20SS396%20L34/69%20Gas%20Tank/IMG_20160329_072359.jpg.html)
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Mike S on March 30, 2016, 01:08:24 PM
I see a lot of Made in the USA and often in smaller words:"...... with parts sourced globally".
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 01:19:39 PM
I see a lot of Made in the USA and often in smaller words:"...... with parts sourced globally".
At least that's honest though.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 69Z28-RS on March 30, 2016, 01:29:46 PM
I see a lot of Made in the USA and often in smaller words:"...... with parts sourced globally".
At least that's honest though.

I'm not as attracted to those words as you are...   that generally means that all the parts are MADE elsewhere, and they are 'assembled' in the US...   The $value of 'assembly' is generally a small fraction of the $value for manufacturing the parts from raw materials.   For instance, when you were paying $15,000-$20,000 for your new Honda (Toyota,etc), approximately $200 of those dollars went to America workers for putting the car together (from the foreign parts). 

** the numbers referenced go back a number of years; I'm sure it's a bit different now...

PS.  Dave, 'Made in Canada' is much better than most of the alternatives these days..  (Maybe they couldn't find their 'Made in America' stickers?? :)
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 01:52:17 PM
I see a lot of Made in the USA and often in smaller words:"...... with parts sourced globally".
At least that's honest though.

I'm not as attracted to those words as you are...   that generally means that all the parts are MADE elsewhere, and they are 'assembled' in the US...   The $value of 'assembly' is generally a small fraction of the $value for manufacturing the parts from raw materials.   For instance, when you were paying $15,000-$20,000 for your new Honda (Toyota,etc), approximately $200 of those dollars went to America workers for putting the car together (from the foreign parts). 

** the numbers referenced go back a number of years; I'm sure it's a bit different now...

PS.  Dave, 'Made in Canada' is much better than most of the alternatives these days..  (Maybe they couldn't find their 'Made in America' stickers?? :)
I think you misunderstood me. I don't like it, but at least it actually is honest unlike what HBC is doing. I couldn't agree more with everything you said except for the part where you said "your Honda". Not mine and never would be ;)
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 69Z28-RS on March 30, 2016, 01:56:06 PM
so HOW is he getting by with putting 'Made in USA' on parts.... that were made in Canada?   Aren't ALL Spectra gas tanks made in Canada?  (was his USA sticker on the'box'... or on the part)??? maybe the 'box/container' was made in the USA??  :)
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Mike S on March 30, 2016, 01:57:54 PM
I wonder what country the 'Made in USA' stickers are made in  these days  :'(
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 02:22:41 PM
The sticker in the fist pic was only on the box. I'd say maybe you're right about the box being Made in the USA, but it says, "Fuel Tank Made in the USA." ;) To the best of my knowledge now, yes, Spectra tanks are all Made in Canada. If I'm not mistaken, what he's doing is illegal. At a minimum it's false advertising.
Mike, I'm sure the stickers are right off the container ship.

Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: BULLITT65 on March 30, 2016, 03:05:10 PM
Hopefully the tank is a quality piece. Question would be, did GM manufacturer there own tanks back then? Maybe one of the original suppliers was out of Canada?
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 03:12:59 PM
Hopefully the tank is a quality piece. Question would be did GM manufacturer there own tanks back then? Maybe one the original suppliers was out of Canada?
Spectra is a good quality tank. No issue there.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: maroman on March 30, 2016, 03:18:38 PM
From what I remember there's an official font and wording to be correct for the Made in USA, even has to have periods after each letter. Just saying American made is not it. Kind of like not having sex with that woman.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: dale_z28 on March 30, 2016, 04:05:20 PM
My '91 Chevy truck, being an extended cab, came from Canada. I could buy something made in "North America," but it should say so. If I want USA made, I really DO want USA made, and that should be without exception!
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: ban617 on March 30, 2016, 06:42:54 PM
The japanese did the made in usa years ago and fooled people to buy their products they were made in usa japan and not U.S.A.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Mike S on March 30, 2016, 07:02:16 PM
 I'll buy Japanese products over Chinese any day. The Made in Japan today are like Made in Germany years ago.

Mike
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on March 30, 2016, 07:42:41 PM
For the record, I bought my Spectra gas tank from Heartbeat back around Christmas time when they had a 25% off sale and they gave me the discount no problem at all.

Spectra as of right now is one of the best aftermarket tanks on the market, I've used them in a few restorations.  I really don't care if it's made in Canada or the US, in my opinion Canada is way better than the alternatives.

I have no beef with Heartbeat at all, I've spent about $8k (actually more I just hate to add up the receipts, lol)  over there in the last 6 months when they have sales.  They have treated me right so far and I haven't a complaint yet about a part.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Mike S on March 30, 2016, 07:46:35 PM
".......... I've spent about $8k (actually more I just hate to add up the receipts, lol) "

Good move. As long as you don't add them up you will not be lying to your significant other if they should ask "how much have you spent on the car"? You can honestly say: "I don't know"  ;)

Mike
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on March 30, 2016, 07:55:43 PM
".......... I've spent about $8k (actually more I just hate to add up the receipts, lol) "

Good move. As long as you don't add them up you will not be lying to your significant other if they should ask "how much have you spent on the car"? You can honestly say: "I don't know"  ;)

Mike

LOL, boy that's the truth
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 08:45:59 PM
For the record, I bought my Spectra gas tank from Heartbeat back around Christmas time when they had a 25% off sale and they gave me the discount no problem at all.

Spectra as of right now is one of the best aftermarket tanks on the market, I've used them in a few restorations.  I really don't care if it's made in Canada or the US, in my opinion Canada is way better than the alternatives.

I have no beef with Heartbeat at all, I've spent about $8k (actually more I just hate to add up the receipts, lol)  over there in the last 6 months when they have sales.  They have treated me right so far and I haven't a complaint yet about a part.
Some of us do care about deceitful businesses and I do care whether or not it's made in USA. A lot of people think like you. As I've said several times, this is not about Canadian products. I have no problem with Canada. I do have a problem with a putz that pulled what he pulled yesterday and especially about him trying to profit off a Made in the USA label. Do you have a problem with stolen Valor or as long as they don't harm you its ok? Principles and values are going down the crapper.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on March 30, 2016, 08:55:20 PM
I don't pay attention really so I guess it doesn't bother me as much.  I just know what brands of parts I like, what fits good and what doesn't when it comes to restoring these things, so I watch who I buy from, but as far as who makes it, we have no control over it so no use in worrying too much about it, but that's just me.  If it fits I'm good with it.  If it doesn't I just send it back :shrug:

 I knew it was a Spectra tank before I ordered it anyway, and I know they are made in Canada because I've bought about a dozen of these things in the last 2 years.  I honestly don't care if Jim at Heartbeat says it's USA made, that really doesn't concern me anyway.  I know where Spectra comes from, I know it's a good product, it appears correct and fits correct, and I get them from whomever has the best price on them.  That's all I really care about.  I pay no attention to the political side of it, that's just wasted energy.  At the time Jim's 25% off sale couldn't be beat.  He had other things I needed so I placed a bulk order.
 Now the only time I would have a problem with it is if he actually jacked the price up 100% over others selling the same Spectra tank just because he put a USA label on it.  But that's just not the case, Jim beat everyone else's price on the Spectra tank and that's all I care about, he didn't rip me off in the form of money so I'm good.  I wouldn't care if he said the Pope made it, lol.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 09:13:38 PM
Yep. Don't care... That's my point. Too many people "don't care". He does jack the prices up a ton. Last night when he tried to screw me out of the discount he said, "It's a great deal, it's made in the USA." Lied right to my face. You paid what, $131+ shipping for the tank?  I paid $111., but I should have left it. Rock Auto has it for $92.00 +$16.00 shipping. If you think you're getting deal from HBC, you aren't looking very hard or he's giving you better prices because you spend a lot.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on March 30, 2016, 10:44:14 PM
No need for attacks, if you have a gripe that's fine, people have a right to complain.  I also feel it's important to express good experiences as well.  People are always quick to bitch about this or that, but the sad part is you never hear anything when someone has a good experience.  So I expressed mine.

I also never said I was buying from Heartbeat and paying full price, I only purchased from Jim when they had a 25% off sale, and when those sales were in place, yes he was cheaper than everyone else, and yes I shopped around, even had a post on here about it around Christmas time.   Without the sale, yes he's higher on some parts, others not so much.  You aren't talking to a rooky, I restore cars for a living and buy from about 25 different vendors. 
     With that said, it's important to point out there are parts Heartbeat carries that are better quality than some other vendors out there, and I'm willing to pay a little more in those cases, and that's what I mean when I say he has the best deals, it's not just the prices, but the quality of the part.  I'll gladly pay $20 for something that fits rather than save $5 on it somewhere else and have a piece of junk.  When he has a 25% off sale, it's even better.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: L78 steve on March 30, 2016, 11:00:21 PM
HBC is my choice for pieces/parts. Spectra make's a great tank and it is made in the America's.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 11:04:57 PM
No need for attacks, if you have a gripe that's fine, people have a right to complain.  I also feel it's important to express good experiences as well.  People are always quick to bitch about this or that, but the sad part is you never hear anything when someone has a good experience.  So I expressed mine.

I also never said I was buying from Heartbeat and paying full price, I only purchased from Jim when they had a 25% off sale, and when those sales were in place, yes he was cheaper than everyone else, and yes I shopped around, even had a post on here about it around Christmas time.   Without the sale, yes he's higher on some parts, others not so much.  You aren't talking to a rooky, I restore cars for a living and buy from about 25 different vendors. 
     With that said, it's important to point out there are parts Heartbeat carries that are better quality than some other vendors out there, and I'm willing to pay a little more in those cases, and that's what I mean when I say he has the best deals, it's not just the prices, but the quality of the part.  I'll gladly pay $20 for something that fits rather than save $5 on it somewhere else and have a piece of junk.  When he has a 25% off sale, it's even better.
Your opinion means exactly squat to me. You said yourself that you don't pay attention and you don't care . No attacks, just stating facts and asking questions. I started the thread which means I care and do pay attention. If you don't like the thread, move on. The internet has plenty of room for you.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on March 30, 2016, 11:20:19 PM
Now you're just being a dick.  Why?  Because I don't care who makes a part?  Maybe you need to wake up and look around, most everything is imported now and what little the USA does make doesn't mean it's better anymore.  You already stated you like the part and are happy with the quality, you also are happy you got a good price.  As far as I'm concerned, you did fine, you really have nothing to bitch about.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 68camaroz28 on March 30, 2016, 11:25:23 PM
No need for attacks, if you have a gripe that's fine, people have a right to complain.  I also feel it's important to express good experiences as well.  People are always quick to bitch about this or that, but the sad part is you never hear anything when someone has a good experience.  So I expressed mine.

I also never said I was buying from Heartbeat and paying full price, I only purchased from Jim when they had a 25% off sale, and when those sales were in place, yes he was cheaper than everyone else, and yes I shopped around, even had a post on here about it around Christmas time.   Without the sale, yes he's higher on some parts, others not so much.  You aren't talking to a rooky, I restore cars for a living and buy from about 25 different vendors. 
     With that said, it's important to point out there are parts Heartbeat carries that are better quality than some other vendors out there, and I'm willing to pay a little more in those cases, and that's what I mean when I say he has the best deals, it's not just the prices, but the quality of the part.  I'll gladly pay $20 for something that fits rather than save $5 on it somewhere else and have a piece of junk.  When he has a 25% off sale, it's even better.

When do they have a 25% sale? I've bought many things from Heartbeat (lot's of $$$$) and overall I've never complained but that does not mean a "to return something" has gone effortlessly. And there are things that are advertised not correctly IMHO but yes overall they offer the best of what is available but one still has to due their homework both in what your purchasing and the price. I just installed a gas tank from the same Canadian supplier to our 68Z. Nice gas tank! I purchased the tank from Quanta (picked it up) and there are no "made in USA" sticker/s on the box. They are drop shipped many times from Indiana as I purchased and the first two that came were damaged, hence the pick up at Quanta. I'm thinking Dave what would have bothered me the most would be the changing of price.
Glad you got it for a good price!
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 30, 2016, 11:38:29 PM
No need for attacks, if you have a gripe that's fine, people have a right to complain.  I also feel it's important to express good experiences as well.  People are always quick to bitch about this or that, but the sad part is you never hear anything when someone has a good experience.  So I expressed mine.

I also never said I was buying from Heartbeat and paying full price, I only purchased from Jim when they had a 25% off sale, and when those sales were in place, yes he was cheaper than everyone else, and yes I shopped around, even had a post on here about it around Christmas time.   Without the sale, yes he's higher on some parts, others not so much.  You aren't talking to a rooky, I restore cars for a living and buy from about 25 different vendors. 
     With that said, it's important to point out there are parts Heartbeat carries that are better quality than some other vendors out there, and I'm willing to pay a little more in those cases, and that's what I mean when I say he has the best deals, it's not just the prices, but the quality of the part.  I'll gladly pay $20 for something that fits rather than save $5 on it somewhere else and have a piece of junk.  When he has a 25% off sale, it's even better.

When do they have a 25% sale? I've bought many things from Heartbeat (lot's of $$$$) and overall I've never complained but that does not mean a "to return something" has gone effortlessly. And there are things that are advertised not correctly IMHO but yes overall they offer the best of what is available but one still has to due their homework both in what your purchasing and the price. I just installed a gas tank from the same Canadian supplier to our 68Z. Nice gas tank! I purchased the tank from Quanta (picked it up) and there are no "made in USA" sticker/s on the box. They are drop shipped many times from Indiana as I purchased and the first two that came were damaged, hence the pick up at Quanta. I'm thinking Dave what would have bothered me the most would be the changing of price.
Glad you got it for a good price!

Thanks Chick. The price change definitely bothered me a lot, but unlike a few others, Made in the USA still means something to me. Would I have still bought the Spectra tank knowing it was built in Canada? Yes. That wasn't my point in all of this. I'm irritated about the deceit. I'm amazed that people are ok with that. I guess I shouldn't be surprised anymore.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: dino67 on March 30, 2016, 11:42:45 PM
It's not ok to be lied to by any vendor. At the very least HBC should check the product labeling.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 69Z28-RS on March 31, 2016, 02:22:13 AM
Just for the record.   I'm on Dave's side of this argument.  I DO care about retaining manufacturing capability in the US, because I think I KNOW what will happen when we lose all our manufacturing expertise and capabilities.   and I DO definitely care about 'less than honest' people.   Once I learn someone deliberately attempts to mislead, then I discontinue any business I might have with them.

Re HBC, I've bought a few small reproduction items from him - probably the same parts I could get elsewhere and paid about the same prices... BUt... I've also discussed with him possibly selling him what most people, including him, consider 'rare' NOS parts.   When he is buying those parts, or trying to...  your parts are 'not that rare' when he offers you 25% of what the market is... Those same parts, once in his warehouse are 'ultra rare' and his prices are generally twice what the market is...  Some people in business..  you just have to assume they will "Lie for $$"...

While we all have our opinions re this and other issues, I don't think it's a good thing, and certainly not constructive to our collective 'good will'.. . to resort to name calling, or even being rude to one another in our typed words.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: ban617 on March 31, 2016, 02:24:55 AM
Ok , what is everyone putting on the tanks to preserve the finish ? Satin clear or ?
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Mike S on March 31, 2016, 02:32:31 AM
 On my 67 convertible I sprayed Imron satin clear polyurethane on a new tank back in 1987.
To this day it still has a natural appearance and looks great with no yellowing or peeling.
If you decide to use a clear I would not use a spray can version but something with an activator.

Mike
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 31, 2016, 02:36:38 AM
On my 67 convertible I sprayed Imron satin clear polyurethane on a new tank back in 1987.
To this day it still has a natural appearance and looks great with no yellowing or peeling.
If you decide to use a clear I would not use a spray can version but something with an activator.

Mike

Did you do anything to prep the tank or just wax & grease remover?
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Mike S on March 31, 2016, 03:04:36 AM
Just wax and grease remover. No scuffing at all.


Mike
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on March 31, 2016, 03:07:24 AM
Just for the record.   I'm on Dave's side of this argument.  I DO care about retaining manufacturing capability in the US, because I think I KNOW what will happen when we lose all our manufacturing expertise and capabilities.   and I DO definitely care about 'less than honest' people.   Once I learn someone deliberately attempts to mislead, then I discontinue any business I might have with them.

Re HBC, I've bought a few small reproduction items from him - probably the same parts I could get elsewhere and paid about the same prices... BUt... I've also discussed with him possibly selling him what most people, including him, consider 'rare' NOS parts.   When he is buying those parts, or trying to...  your parts are 'not that rare' when he offers you 25% of what the market is... Those same parts, once in his warehouse are 'ultra rare' and his prices are generally twice what the market is...  Some people in business..  you just have to assume they will "Lie for $$"...

While we all have our opinions re this and other issues, I don't think it's a good thing, and certainly not constructive to our collective 'good will'.. . to resort to name calling, or even being rude to one another in our typed words.

I think I'm being misunderstood here Gary.   I never said I didn't care about retaining manufacturing here in the US, I've just accepted the fact that it's not a reality.

As far as what I said, I stand by it.   I was blunt and to the point,  I was being insulted plain and simple, and I called it the way I see it. There was no need for that when someone is simply stating the good experience they had.  Dave knows it, and anyone that reads it can see it.  He's obviously having a bad day.  I'm sure he'll get over it, install that tank and all will be well.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: bcmiller on March 31, 2016, 03:10:03 AM
This got fairly heated or was going to.  Let's tone it down a bit.  Everyone can have an opinion without it getting personal.

I have had good and bad experiences with vendors.  What I will say though is that if it says made in the USA, it should be that way.

But be careful about vendor bashing.  That is not allowed. 
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: KurtS on March 31, 2016, 04:59:59 AM
But be careful about vendor bashing.  That is not allowed. 
Actually, all bashing isn't allowed. Criticize the concept/issue, not the person.

Larry,
Thank you for remaining calm.

And I wouldn't do anything to the tank. It's galvanized!

Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: bcmiller on March 31, 2016, 12:02:55 PM
Actually, all bashing isn't allowed. Criticize the concept/issue, not the person.

True. And thanks for the reminder. :)
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 31, 2016, 12:41:46 PM
Thanks gentlemen. I'm not looking to vendor bash, just report what happened to me and warn others about a vendor's false advertising. I think the post definitely got out of hand when it was made to be about something it wasn't. Not to keep anything going, but I am going to respond to an accusation. I never insulted anyone. I just went back and read what I wrote. Only one person was stirring the pot. Those who stir the pot, should have to lick the spoon...
Good call on the galvy Kurt. I was thinking it was Ni Terne (sp?) and might corrode over time. Thanks.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Sauron327 on March 31, 2016, 02:14:14 PM
Spectra tanks are Ni-Terne treated; the Heartbeat sticker states galvanized. No need to clear a Ni-Terne tank.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 31, 2016, 02:20:07 PM
Spectra tanks are Ni-Terne treated; the Heartbeat sticker states galvanized. No need to clear a Ni-Terne tank.
Thanks Scott. I thought I read that somewhere.

For those looking to buy one, who would have thought Amazon would have them? $105 and free shipping if you have Prime...
http://www.amazon.com/Spectra-Premium-GM32B-Chevrolet-Pontiac/dp/B000C7S5UI

Also,for those that, like me, did not really know what Ni-Terne treated really is, this is a quote from FineLine Fuel Systems:

"What is Ni-Terne Steel? Ni-terne steel is a lead-tin alloy of approximately 92% lead and 8% tin, which has a dull grey finish,
is very ductile and has a lubricating characteristic that enhances formability in drawing operations. Terne sheet continues to be used today because of its excellent corrosion performance when in con-tact with petroleum fuels. The lead provides long-term barrier-type corrosion resistance. Barrier corrosion means simply that the liquid medium is physically kept from contacting the steel to prevent corrosion of the steel."
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 1968RSZ28 on March 31, 2016, 03:57:14 PM
Spectra's production line is very automated...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52sJ_BxMi64

Paul
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Sauron327 on March 31, 2016, 04:09:36 PM

For those looking to buy one, who would have thought Amazon would have them? $105 and free shipping if you have Prime...
http://www.amazon.com/Spectra-Premium-GM32B-Chevrolet-Pontiac/dp/B000C7S5UI

Amazon is the first place I look when shopping for anything. I have Prime. It is rare that their prices are not lower than anywhere else, and their return policies are great.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: BULLITT65 on March 31, 2016, 04:30:50 PM
Late to this thread, but have opinion that is worth as much as anyone else's ....
 I am not going to rehash anything to volatile, but while not bashing vendors (or members), I think it is a benefit to the rest of us to describe good and bad issues while dealing with vendors. I read the whole thread and thought I would be pissed as well, especially being told to my face such info from any vendor.
I don't know Dave (Hawk) or Larry (X33RS) personally but I think we are all here for the right reasons. While I can see Daves point, I think Larry knows what he is getting ahead of time so the marketing of where it is made, is old hat.

I like "made in the U.S.A." in theory, but politics is the underlying name of the game these days. I think greedy/corrupt union bosses with politicians have poisoned the well, which in turn has soured myself (possibly others) to "the made in the U.S.A." tag.

IMO they have sold out the american people by making back room deals, for the voting block of the union(s) . Now this is on a grand scale, but I still take it on a case by case basis, depending on the item.

There are defects in anything made anywhere, even in the U.S.A. I do like the fact that I can call the factory/company when I have a problem with a US made part, and talk in english about it, and get it resolved.

 Just my 2 cents
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on March 31, 2016, 05:59:47 PM
Spectra's production line is very automated...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52sJ_BxMi64

Paul
Thanks Paul. I can't wait to check it out tonight. The tube is blocked where I am...


For those looking to buy one, who would have thought Amazon would have them? $105 and free shipping if you have Prime...
http://www.amazon.com/Spectra-Premium-GM32B-Chevrolet-Pontiac/dp/B000C7S5UI

Amazon is the first place I look when shopping for anything. I have Prime. It is rare that their prices are not lower than anywhere else, and their return policies are great.
It's funny. I actually do for a lot of things. This is just one that I didn't think they'd have and didn't bother to look. I also wanted to pick it up. Amazon is absolutely amazing for the shipping speed, deals and customer service. I feel bad for the brick and mortar businesses. There is no way they can compete. Have you checked out "Amazon Warehouse"? Crazy deals on scratch and dents and returns that half the time haven't even been opened.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 69 Zee on April 01, 2016, 04:46:02 AM
Maybe I can shed some light on what I believe is taking place.  As an ex-Industrial Mechanical Engineer and involved with rolls of raw steel I have good idea of what is most likely happening with these tanks.

My guess is "U.S. Steel" which is probably if not the largest steel manufacture out there (at least in North America) is the supplier of the steel used in the manufacturing of the tanks.  Also about 10 yrs ago "U.S. Steel" bought out a Canadian steel company and that facility became know as "U.S. Steel Canada".   I'm not sure where these tanks are manufactured in Canada, but "U.S. Steel" have a few facilities around the great lake area also.

Btw....HBC does state in their listing that these tanks are "Made in the USA/Canada" (Third line of description).

Hence why your seeing two stickers...IMO
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 68camaroz28 on April 01, 2016, 11:09:14 AM
Spectra tanks are Ni-Terne treated; the Heartbeat sticker states galvanized. No need to clear a Ni-Terne tank.
Agree with Kurt and Scott so a X3! What I've found is the tank has a galvanized look to it out of the box. If you clean it with wax and grease remover the tank looks like a sheet metal tank and does not appear natural or how they should look IMHO.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: BillOhio on April 01, 2016, 12:12:01 PM
chick, are you suggesting to not clean it with wax and grease remover? mine is in its box and I hadnt decided to clear it or anything yet
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Sauron327 on April 01, 2016, 12:33:07 PM
Maybe I can shed some light on what I believe is taking place.  As an ex-Industrial Mechanical Engineer and involved with rolls of raw steel I have good idea of what is most likely happening with these tanks.

My guess is "U.S. Steel" which is probably if not the largest steel manufacture out there (at least in North America) is the supplier of the steel used in the manufacturing of the tanks.  Also about 10 yrs ago "U.S. Steel" bought out a Canadian steel company and that facility became know as "U.S. Steel Canada".   I'm not sure where these tanks are manufactured in Canada, but "U.S. Steel" have a few facilities around the great lake area also.

Btw....HBC does state in their listing that these tanks are "Made in the USA/Canada" (Third line of description).

Hence why your seeing two stickers...IMO

Long ago when researching Ni-Terne, US Steel popped up immediately. As noted, HBC clearly states USA/Canada.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 69 Zee on April 01, 2016, 01:16:35 PM
chick, are you suggesting to not clean it with wax and grease remover? mine is in its box and I hadnt decided to clear it or anything yet
As others have suggested.. I wouldn't do anything to it.  Leave as is.  That's the purpose of Ni-Terne steel.  Has an added step in corrosion protection over plain Terne steel or even galvanized steel for that matter.

Just plug and play..lol
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: maroman on April 01, 2016, 02:01:40 PM
And do NOT put one of the sealers inside.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 68camaroz28 on April 01, 2016, 11:21:34 PM
chick, are you suggesting to not clean it with wax and grease remover? mine is in its box and I hadnt decided to clear it or anything yet
Yes! I personally cleaned one and hated the look as again it took the galvanized look away and it looked like a piece of plain sheet-metal with too much shine. This week we placed the one in the 68Z and just placed it like it came out of the box and did nothing to it. Its well protected.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: Mike S on April 01, 2016, 11:54:03 PM
 Don't you think that as time passes that the protection will eventually fade away from air exposure?
I'm not talking about the galvanizing but the protection you are referring to.

Mike
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on April 02, 2016, 12:14:31 AM
Don't you think that as time passes that the protection will eventually fade away from air exposure?
I'm not talking about the galvanizing but the protection you are referring to.

Mike
I just installed my tank tonight. The oil or whatever it is will come off at some point. If its driven like mine will be, I think it will disappear pretty quickly. It doesn't look like the ni-terne will suffer much without it. I'm sure the finish will wear over time like anything else.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: 1971ls6 on April 03, 2016, 10:36:30 PM
Anytime you are trying to sell an original part to a business like HBC , expect to get hosed a little, they need to make money, I get it. HBC beat me up real bad when I sold him some pulleys, he said they were firebirds and insulted me with a low ball offer, I took the m home and threw them away.

I do agree that HBC does have some unique and better quality items than t he other Camaro houses.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: cruizin69 on May 16, 2016, 09:31:30 PM
I don't blame you, if it is made in Canada say it is.
I would rather buy something made in North America than over seas.
Can you post some pictures of the made in Canada stamp on the tank?
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: cruizin69 on May 16, 2016, 09:40:26 PM
How do you what make a tank is if it is out of the box?
Are there markings or stamps to identify different manufactures?
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on May 16, 2016, 10:30:48 PM
I'm not sure if any of the manufacturers mark their tanks like that. I didn't notice any markings on my tank other than the sticker.

(http://i1164.photobucket.com/albums/q573/SgtHawkUSMC/69%20Camaro%20SS396%20L34/69%20Gas%20Tank/IMG_20160330_162147.jpg) (http://s1164.photobucket.com/user/SgtHawkUSMC/media/69%20Camaro%20SS396%20L34/69%20Gas%20Tank/IMG_20160330_162147.jpg.html)
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on May 16, 2016, 10:49:05 PM
I just opened one up today for a Camaro, bought from HBC.   It has a sticker on it plain as day that says made in Canada, and a bag of parts and instructions with it that has Spectra all over it.

It's the way I've seen them for the last 4-5 years.   Same Spectra tanks that most of the classic car vendors sell.  Even Autozone sells them.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on May 16, 2016, 10:57:33 PM
I just opened one up today for a Camaro, bought from HBC.   It has a sticker on it plain as day that says made in Canada, and a bag of parts and instructions with it that has Spectra all over it.

It's the way I've seen them for the last 4-5 years.   Same Spectra tanks that most of the classic car vendors sell.  Even Autozone sells them.
Are you really having that hard a time with what I'm saying? I'll say this real slow for you one more time... Jim, the owner of HBC, told me to my face that the tank is Made in the USA. The sticker on the box he handed me, not the tank, says Made in the USA. You can't see Made in the USA until you take the tank out of the box and out of the shrink wrap. Jim, the owner of HBC, tried to screw me out of a discount.
I understand you are a cheerleader for HBC, but put your pom poms down for a second and try to grasp the point of all this... It has NOTHING to do with the fact that Spectra tanks are made in Canada. It is an awesome tank and I like Canadian products just fine. HBC isn't even a Spectra dealer. They just re-sell the tanks sourced elsewhere. It has everything to do with HBC's integrity and shady business practices.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on May 16, 2016, 11:07:31 PM
Nothing on my box says made in the USA.   No need to be rude, and after all this time it should be water under the bridge for you, Just move on for petes sake, sheeesh.
   I'm no cheerleader, just stating facts.  Spectra has been around for a long time, and most people I know are very much aware that Spectra is the big supplier to the vendors, so when you buy a tank you can bet it's Spectra.  I'm not even aware of any gas tank actually stamped and manufactured in the US.  You were misled, it happens.  You like the tank so get over it, install it, drive the car and be happy. 
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on May 16, 2016, 11:14:33 PM
Nothing on my box says made in the USA.   No need to be rude, and after all this time it should be water under the bridge for you, Just move on for petes sake, sheeesh.
   I'm no cheerleader, just stating facts.  Spectra has been around for a long time, and most people I know are very much aware that Spectra is the big supplier to the vendors, so when you buy a tank you can bet it's Spectra.  I'm not even aware of any gas tank actually stamped and manufactured in the US.  You were misled, it happens.  You like the tank so get over it, install it, drive the car and be happy. 
I did move on. I answered someone's question/request. I wasn't misled. I was lied to. Your post tells me you still don't get it. I think you need to take your own advice and move on.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: X33RS on May 16, 2016, 11:28:41 PM
You didn't move on apparently, I simply elaborated on that question that there is nothing on the boxes I've ever seen that stated anything about the United States and nothing on the tanks either.  You're the one that attacked.....again.   You apparently have some sort of issue with me, for what ever reason, I don't care, but unless you have something useful for everyone here to contribute then it's best to keep it to yourself.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: bcmiller on May 16, 2016, 11:32:49 PM
Everybody chill out. 
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: ban617 on May 17, 2016, 12:34:28 AM
X33rs , Hi how would you or anyone go about using the original tank as far as appearance ? Any cleaning / detail tips , my original is very nice no rust or dents ....
    Thanks
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: janobyte on May 17, 2016, 12:45:08 AM
X33rs , Hi how would you or anyone go about using the original tank as far as appearance ? Any cleaning / detail tips , my original is very nice no rust or dents ....
    Thanks

PM DWcook, did a nice job on his tank awhile ago, pics floating around on the site.
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: cruizin69 on May 17, 2016, 06:41:29 PM
Were is this sticker located on the tank?
Title: Re: HBC warning. Not Made in the USA
Post by: HawkX66 on May 17, 2016, 08:39:21 PM
Were is this sticker located on the tank?
In the middle of the top. Let's let this thread go for now... If you have any other questions, feel free to PM me.

(http://i1164.photobucket.com/albums/q573/SgtHawkUSMC/69%20Camaro%20SS396%20L34/69%20Gas%20Tank/IMG_20160329_072255.jpg) (http://s1164.photobucket.com/user/SgtHawkUSMC/media/69%20Camaro%20SS396%20L34/69%20Gas%20Tank/IMG_20160329_072255.jpg.html)