I worked in a small Mom and Pop speed shop about 15 years ago. Their son managed it without taking a salary. Their cost on parts was higher than Summit or Jeg's sells for. They closed up after about 5 years when they realized they could make more by renting out the building to someone else.
There is a shop in my area that is like that (has Jegs and Summit catalogs on the counter) he matches prices, has a fair inventory, and what he doesn't have gets the next day from his supplier. He's a one man operation in a rented space and admits to making most of his money with online sales. An older gent that's been around a while and is a pleasure to deal with on custom stuff compared to the oreily counter staff.
The only local shop around is S & K Speed. Older shops like Midwest (American Speed) are long gone. They have an engine shop and a huge showroom. They do match any online price though. Bring in a printout of a Summit item and they honor the price.
I miss speed shops, found this relic in my garage today from 1995 when I bought some Cragar S/S tri bar spinners.
I just was reading some information over on the bang shift site about the EPA starting a campaign to enforce some existing laws, as well as a bevy of new restrictions regarding the sale and installation of aftermarket parts. The parts are other than repair items. Rather modification type equipment. I realize this comes up from time to time, but SEMA seems to be highly concerned this time? I am thinking this could have serious impact on our hobby as well as the online outfits. Not a good time to venture in this market if this proves to in fact be the case?
The Jalopy Journal
