mentioning aftermarket parts in the SMC forums

[EstebanLoco]

When posting in the SMC forums, is there a certain protocol when mentioning sources of aftermarket parts used in a particular build? I’ve noticed in the past that when I've mentioned where I procured certain parts that the name of the company was subsequently deleted from the post.

I’ll be utilizing more aftermarket parts this year because frankly, I can’t scratchbuild them as good as these guys can make them. Don’t get me wrong – I’ll still be doing a lot of scratchbuilding, but for certain parts you just can’t beat what we’re seeing out there these days.

Just trying to stay politically correct and not break the rules.

Steve

[Rick]

Steve

I've been responsible for some of the deletions (not yours) and they were done so due to the fact that the threads were considered to be "advertising" only.

I think its safe to say that if you post, for example, that your build includes an "Edeuce Model A body", and a "TDR SBC engine", that you won't have any issues with the forum meanies.

At the same time, we need to be mindfull that our site owner is also in the aftermarket parts business and if his parts are being used, he should get equal billing along with an opportunity to provide a competitive quote. After all, without Dan, we would not be having this discussion on such a great site.

Rick

[Don Garrett]

Let me clarify what Rick's said a little more......there is no problem (as he stated) mentioning where the parts came from as long as it's not a pitch to advertise them. Vendors can place advertisements on the site in the proper section....there is a fee for this and it helps to support the site.

Posts that mention aftermarket parts may be deleted because they are considered to be sales pitches or if a member is "trashing" a vendor. In other words...if you have a beef with a vendor...take it off site and deal with the vendor. As most of you are aware that type of behavior isn't tolerated on the forum and in it's worst case scenario can lead to suspension.

If you don't like a vendors parts or service and just have to say something, simply say you (personally) weren't completely satisfied and let it go at that.
It's certainly okay to say you like a particular vendor.

Steve and some of you other members may have stuff or parts you made that you sell.....there is a place for that. For instance, Steve, I know you make some killer dash boards...and doing a thread about them is cool. You are welcome to say (if you were so inclined) that you would sell them, however, any price listings, sales etc. would need to be done off site or in the section provided for that.

Mostly, it's just common sense and playing nice to keep the site about modeling...after all I don't think any of us want or need the site to turn into an eBay clone.

[EstebanLoco]

Thanks guys. I understand. The particular vendor I was referring to (name blocked) was Scale Hardware and it wasn't a plug. I just happen to like their stuff so I use it and I thought it would be okay to mention where I got my build materials. I also use hardware from Reactive Metals and Micro Fasteners, although for some reason their names were not blocked. No big deal. I understand which way the wind blows and I don't want to upset the apple cart. I will, however, mix metaphors from time to time.

Steve

[EstebanLoco]

Okay, I see that it is still being blocked. I won't mention them again.

[Don Garrett]

Steve, E mail me the vendor name and I'll give you a reason why it's blocked..it might be as simple as the auto censor is picking up something in the name and blocking it, a sensitive 'puter code or it might be some other reason like too many "private" complaints from other members.

One thing you can count on is I'll find out why and explain or fix the problem.
I appreciate you bringing it to our attention, that's what we're here for....okay?
No need for you not to mention it again.

We want more than anything else for this site to be a place where you members are comfortable, enjoying the hobby and not having to worry about spammers or mudslings, we try to keep the site as unburdened with restrictions as we possibly can but there are always a few clowns that want only to hear themselves B.S. and start trouble.

[Don Garrett]

Steve......the blocked name issue has been resolved.