Contacting Precision Scale?

Hard question to answer with any degree of accuracy, but when I called them, they answered so it may be a hit or miss deal.

Bob

Its hit and miss. Dealing with them takes a lot of patience based on my experiences with calling and ordering by fax.

I had had email replies, though some weeks after first sending and I do have order forms but I prefer to order by phone to make sure I have current prices and stock is available.

I will keep trying.

Pete

Pete,

When you call, ask them how much longer it'll be before we see the O Steam Engine Catalog   I've been waiting for close to a year now.  The last email I got said it would be ready in June I thought they meant of 2012!

I've not had any difficulties calling them; might think about time zones and lunch before dialing though.  I usually get straight in or hit a busy signal; call back after awhile and they pick up.

Bob, If I manage to connect I'll ask them about the catalogs. I got my catalogs (2 HO, 2 O) about two years ago. One of my concerns is the prices are out of date which makes sending in an order form with a check a little chancy.

Pete

Thanks Pete!

I had a look at Ed Rappe's book (Keystoned Ed) back in Jan/Feb and it seemed like it was a several hundred pages.  I wish they'd make it into a PDF file and sell it via the internet.  Take a lot less time, be easily updated, and could get it out to the masses quickly.  I wonder how may sales they've lost because of not having the reference available?  I've gone to other makers for parts, but I still can't get everything I need.

Bob, everyone, I finally connected with Precision Scale and placed my order. Not good news on the catalog. They said it might not be until next year for the O Scale steam catalog. I didn't ask about others. I was told the delay is due to numerous changes. Hopefully many more additions than deletions.

Pete

I used  my old Precision catalog for the numbers and description enabling my LHS [Lil Choo Choo] to place an order. A steam era headlight for modification of my 4-6-0. It arrived in 4 weeks. I already had received the bell that is also being replaced.

About as fast as stuff used to arrive upon a direct order by order form.

Thanks for asking Pete, what a bummer though I can't imagine the potential loss of sales this is causing.

I don't know that they don't have all the business that they care to have.....more might actually result in some very significant delays.

Martin,

Do they keep stock on hand or do they only make items as orders come in?  If they make items as orders come in I could see a sudden increase, even a small one, might cause a backup, but not knowing just how they do business, you may be right.

The problem is, without a catalog available, I/we have no way of knowing what they offer.  They may have exactly what I need, but I don't know until I see their catalog page by page.  Or they may have something that will work, but not exactly what I am looking for.

I believe that some items are made as needed to fill orders; the possibility of having an infinite stock room seems miniscule unless one has access to a Tardis.

Once upon a time I had photocopies of their catalogs.  Seriously out of date on pricing, but I found that after I broke down and bought new catalogs that the only overt changes were the prices.  If you can find even an old catalog, it's useful.

From their catalog:

Due to our extensive line of over 17,000 items, it is impossible to stock all parts.  Orders require a two week manufacturing process.  Therefore, please allow three weeks for delivery of orders.

My faxed orders with cc info usually require three week turnaround. 

From their catalog:

PSC is always glad to answer questions about our products.  However, due to the large volume of phone calls, we ask that you write with questions or comments, and include a large SASE.

Orders using checks/MOs can be emailed/faxed for price estimates then mailed with payment.

The more time they spend on the phone the less time they have for manufacturing and filling orders.

Matt

Thanks guys, guess I'll have to look elsewhere.  Wiseman and Stevenson have most of what I need.

Pete, seems like Keil Line's phone was also their FAX number, may be why it's hard getting thru.  I called them 3-4 times before I got in to place an order.

You can email PSC and ask to be contacted via email, phone or snail mail when the O Scale Steam Catalog is available.  You can also bookmark the catalog webpage and check it.

Matt

And, that's why when I call I have my account number and item numbers ready to roll,