Good source for small, obscure parts???

[JPTL]

I'm missing the lower mixture knob on my '85 Johnson 2hp. It's not the end of the world, but it's a nag having to grab it with pliers to adjust my mix.
I'm trying to find a good online parts source. So far, I've found one that will sell me a knob for only $3.45. That's great, except that the cheapest shipping is $11.50. I'll take a pass on a $15 knob.
I've tried to find this knob thru the Iboats.com sponsor, but can't.
Any ideas of a good online source for such an obscure part?
My other option is to order one through the dealer, but I like the convenience of online shopping if it's possible.
By the way, I've got the BRP number, which is categorized under 'engine cover':
0319168 KNOB,Hi & low speed
Thanks in advance,
J.P.

 

[ezeke]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

I found a workable knob with a set screw at my local hardware store. Cost $3.00. It was designed for appliances, but works fine.

 

[F_R]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

Let's face it that's the facts of life. Who is going to mess around with packing and shipping a $3 part without charging some sort of handling fee? They only make a buck or so profit on the part. Would you rather get in your car and drive who-knows-how-far at $3 a gallon to go pick it up at a local dealer? Probably don't even have to pay sales tax on the on-line version.

Seriously, can't you think of something else you can add to the order to make the cost proportion better? How about some waterproof grease, or spark plug, or lower unit oil? Changed the water pump impeller lately? You should.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

Shucks,I've got one on the shelf.It's only $4.10.
Drive on down !

I'm your local dealer.

DHP

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

follow Joe Reeves carb adjustment in the engine faq forum, and you should never have to mess with it again. who cares if it has a knob.

 

[JPTL]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

I know that there are companies out there who can pop a small part in an envelope & send it to me for a minimal shipping charge, (or send me a catalog free of charge) They make only a couple of dollars on the transaction, but I'll keep them in mind and do business with them in the future. I have no problem with the 'minimum order' policy that many of these online vendors have, but I'm sorry..... I have a problem with a 800% shipping markup for a means of making a profit.
Anyway, I'm going to take all of your advice:
*Find a compatible appliance knob for the time being, while I tune my carb.
*Go to a dealer (in my travels) and pick an oem one up.
*Replace the impeller & do a basic tuneup.
*Tune the carb once & for all, so that I can leave it alone.
On the top of the engine cover, there's a label indicating 100:1 ratio. It appears that the norm is at least 50:1, and in the earlier engines, 24:1. 100:1 seems really light to me.
Any ideas?

 

[ezeke]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

OMC ran that 100:1 for a short period and then abruptly cancelled it for 50:1. Use 50:1.

 

[Zep--]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

I have to agree with the OP on the outrageous shipping charges (iboats store included)

Amazon.com:
Seloc manual overnight shiping - $12.49
One-Day Shipping (1 business day)

iboats.com
Seloc manual overnight shiping - $49.07
One-Day Shipping (3 business days) (WTF?)

Something doesn't seem right there.

Carl

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

when buying on line, you have to check shipping, as different online sellers charge different rates. thus, putting them out of them competitive market. look around locally, i found a marine store in my area, that sell items that the boxes were damaged, and about a 25-50 % discount. 50-1 mix is correct, 100-1 did not provide enough lubrication, and caused some failures.

 

[bassboy1]

Re: Good source for small, obscure parts???

Not sure if this will help for this knob but may in the future. www.outboard-parts.com. When you get to the sight read 'company'. Real interesting info.