T&T: good supplier

[Larry N. Brown]

Just want to relate a good experience with a supplier I've used in the past, 
McMaster Carr. http://www.mcmaster.com/

The geometry of my engine beds makes it very difficult to change the oil in 
the mains. I've just finished the break-in period of my new Yanmar 4LHA 
diesels and it's time to change the oil and get the valves adjusted. Tried 
to suck the oil up the dipstick tubes but it was SLOW. I was able to get a 
container under the drain plug but discovered that it's capacity was 
approximately one cup shy so I have a drip pan cleanup on my hands.

I'd planned all along to put in an oil change system in along with a GCF O-1 
bypass system so I figured as long as the plugs were out, I'd put in the 
needed fittings. Called the local Yanmar people and the service department 
had a replacement for the fitting with a 3/8" female pipe thread. Great. A 
couple street elbows and valves and I'll be set. Stopped at Lowe's and they 
have precious little 3/8" stuff. Was going to stop by Ace but I suspected 
they wouldn't have just what I wanted either.

Got on McMaster-Carr's website and had two 90d red brass street elbows and 
two locking ball valves on the way- $30.88- in 10 minutes. Checked out 
before I knew it and I hadn't seen the shipping options. Called and the 
girl, after reviewing my order, said oh, it's standard, it'll be there 
tomorrow. How much? $5.00. I could hardly drive over and pick the stuff up 
for that.

Regards,

Larry & Teri Brown
MV Cigano, 47' Prairie Sundeck
Still glued to the dock in Covington, LA