Customer Input - Stuff we'd like to see Ultima address.
Discussion
EDITED - this thread is here to gauge interest in areas that builders would like to see upgrades. This is not a factory poll, it does not mean that the factory will provide upgrades, it is a poll by us to show the factory our interest in change. PLEASE read the instructions for the poll and post a Y or N vote for each item ON THE BASIS that you would pay for an upgrade if available. If you would like to also comment on why you chose Y or N, please do so in a separate area underneath your vote - like Lukly P did a few posts down
Wayne's lightened steering arms thread http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... led to a discussion of issues that owners felt needed resolving. Rather than highjack that thread and steer it on a tangent, lets continue that discussion here with an appropriate title.
This is where we were going>>>>
I would have thought that the factory had thick enough skin to take on constructive comments every now and then - remembering of course that this forum is full of people that love the car and genuinely want to see problems resolved and see the marque evolve and prosper.
I would however have thought the loss of ONE customer would be enough to spark action on these niggling items that detract from an otherwise great product.
The frustrating thing for me is that these issues have been known for some time and not addressed and when they are brought up here we all discuss the issue among ourselves without noticeable factory input. Statistics show that the last post (other than promotional posts re: LS7 release and World Record) was 17 months ago when the factory confirmed that the Farboud Body isnt factory approved. I find this quite the opposite on other forums where there is noticeable factory support and continual upgrades and refinements that are driven by customer response.
Factory - please watch and please comment
POLL = Issues owners would like to see addressed and number of people (in brackets) that would buy upgrades if the factory offered them.
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=1 N=0)
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0)
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=1 N=0)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0)
Number of voters (1)
INSTRUCTIONS - (for the computer impaired) No need to quote (that will get messy) Cut and paste from and including the word "POLL" above to the end of these instructions into your response and add a number in the brackets and/or something you'd like fixed to the list. Try to keep the description short.
Wayne's lightened steering arms thread http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... led to a discussion of issues that owners felt needed resolving. Rather than highjack that thread and steer it on a tangent, lets continue that discussion here with an appropriate title.
This is where we were going>>>>
M3desmo said:
There's a trend appearing here that the factory should take note of.
Every Ultima owner I've ever met has highlighted certain issues to me that they weren't satisfied with, but there has been a reluctance to push the point with the factory for fear of being isolated from factory support.
Last year I was dead set on building an Ultima, but after doing a fair bit of research and meeting a lot of owners, there are just too many issues unresolved / unsatisfactory for me to follow through with an order. As a potential new owner it's all too easy to get caught up in the Ultima obsession and plough in with rose-tinted specs. Take a step back and it ain't so rosy.
Don't get me wrong, the Ultima is a great car and one of the best developed self build kits around, but the underlying patronising attitude is very unsavoury and certainly won't prise £60k from my wallet.
I dont think fear of removal of support from the factory should be a reason for not approaching the factory or discussing the matters on this forum, its certainly never stopped me. Every Ultima owner I've ever met has highlighted certain issues to me that they weren't satisfied with, but there has been a reluctance to push the point with the factory for fear of being isolated from factory support.
Last year I was dead set on building an Ultima, but after doing a fair bit of research and meeting a lot of owners, there are just too many issues unresolved / unsatisfactory for me to follow through with an order. As a potential new owner it's all too easy to get caught up in the Ultima obsession and plough in with rose-tinted specs. Take a step back and it ain't so rosy.
Don't get me wrong, the Ultima is a great car and one of the best developed self build kits around, but the underlying patronising attitude is very unsavoury and certainly won't prise £60k from my wallet.
I would have thought that the factory had thick enough skin to take on constructive comments every now and then - remembering of course that this forum is full of people that love the car and genuinely want to see problems resolved and see the marque evolve and prosper.
I would however have thought the loss of ONE customer would be enough to spark action on these niggling items that detract from an otherwise great product.
The frustrating thing for me is that these issues have been known for some time and not addressed and when they are brought up here we all discuss the issue among ourselves without noticeable factory input. Statistics show that the last post (other than promotional posts re: LS7 release and World Record) was 17 months ago when the factory confirmed that the Farboud Body isnt factory approved. I find this quite the opposite on other forums where there is noticeable factory support and continual upgrades and refinements that are driven by customer response.
Factory - please watch and please comment
POLL = Issues owners would like to see addressed and number of people (in brackets) that would buy upgrades if the factory offered them.
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=1 N=0)
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0)
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=1 N=0)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0)
Number of voters (1)
INSTRUCTIONS - (for the computer impaired) No need to quote (that will get messy) Cut and paste from and including the word "POLL" above to the end of these instructions into your response and add a number in the brackets and/or something you'd like fixed to the list. Try to keep the description short.
Edited by crafty on Friday 2nd November 10:44
Edited by crafty on Friday 2nd November 23:43
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=2 N=0)
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0)
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=1 N=0)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0)
Number of voters (2)
INSTRUCTIONS - (for the computer impaired) No need to quote (that will get messy) Cut and paste from and including the word "POLL" above to the end of these instructions into your response and add a number in the brackets and/or something you'd like fixed to the list. Try to keep the description short.
Head above parapet!
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0)
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=1 N=0)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0)
Number of voters (2)
INSTRUCTIONS - (for the computer impaired) No need to quote (that will get messy) Cut and paste from and including the word "POLL" above to the end of these instructions into your response and add a number in the brackets and/or something you'd like fixed to the list. Try to keep the description short.
Head above parapet!
M3 - I'm not sure why you feel you've got such an axe to grind?
For starters, this forum exists so that current and potential owners can share experiences, tips and gripes etc. It does not exist as a suggestions box for the factory (though they do read it from time to time), nor is it here as Ultima's customer support. Ted's old fashioned like that and prefers people to pick up the phone - it's amazing how quickly you get answers that way!
Had you bought a car, I think you would have been impressed with the level of support the factory gives. Owners build individual rapport with the factory and it's very much a reciprocal thing. I had several issues during my builds (and let's face it, mine weren't very standard) and the factory fully supported me, even making custom components for me at no costs (like the G50 support bracket when I installed the supercharger, which took a couple of attempts).
As for owners having inresolved issues - who exactly? I don't deny that there are things that could be improved, but that's all part of the development process. Large manufacturers have a tough time of it with huge resources, so how to you think the factory manages?
Also, deviating from the factory spec. because you feel that there's a better solution means that you can't seriously expect the factory to fully support the mods. Even then, I've found that they've been helpful, but at the end of the day, if you choose to change stuff then ultimately it's your own responsibility.
Frankly, it sounds like you're better off with a mainstream car anyway.
For starters, this forum exists so that current and potential owners can share experiences, tips and gripes etc. It does not exist as a suggestions box for the factory (though they do read it from time to time), nor is it here as Ultima's customer support. Ted's old fashioned like that and prefers people to pick up the phone - it's amazing how quickly you get answers that way!
Had you bought a car, I think you would have been impressed with the level of support the factory gives. Owners build individual rapport with the factory and it's very much a reciprocal thing. I had several issues during my builds (and let's face it, mine weren't very standard) and the factory fully supported me, even making custom components for me at no costs (like the G50 support bracket when I installed the supercharger, which took a couple of attempts).
As for owners having inresolved issues - who exactly? I don't deny that there are things that could be improved, but that's all part of the development process. Large manufacturers have a tough time of it with huge resources, so how to you think the factory manages?
Also, deviating from the factory spec. because you feel that there's a better solution means that you can't seriously expect the factory to fully support the mods. Even then, I've found that they've been helpful, but at the end of the day, if you choose to change stuff then ultimately it's your own responsibility.
Frankly, it sounds like you're better off with a mainstream car anyway.
For what it's worth:
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=1 N=0) - Yup, they do, but it varies from car to car due (I guess) to variances in body/clip positioning. Apparently this has been resolved and the factory have a new slimline version?
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0) - Never had an issue with these? What's the beef?
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0) - The factory now supply a warning light system - surely this takes care of it? As long as the latches are engaged properly, they're safe as you like.
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=1 N=0) - Easy to resolve by fitting a lighter pressure sender or relocating to front circuit (but yes, the factory could do this as standard)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0) - Interesting one this and frankly, i reckon it's up to the owner. I never found the windows a problem, but I guess some would want wind-downs. But that's the thing, there's nothing to stop the owner from finding a solution if they want it. Why do the factory need to? You'd need to see how many people have not bought an Ult because the windows don't wind down - not a lot I'd guess.
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=1 N=0) - Yup, they do, but it varies from car to car due (I guess) to variances in body/clip positioning. Apparently this has been resolved and the factory have a new slimline version?
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0) - Never had an issue with these? What's the beef?
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0) - The factory now supply a warning light system - surely this takes care of it? As long as the latches are engaged properly, they're safe as you like.
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=1 N=0) - Easy to resolve by fitting a lighter pressure sender or relocating to front circuit (but yes, the factory could do this as standard)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0) - Interesting one this and frankly, i reckon it's up to the owner. I never found the windows a problem, but I guess some would want wind-downs. But that's the thing, there's nothing to stop the owner from finding a solution if they want it. Why do the factory need to? You'd need to see how many people have not bought an Ult because the windows don't wind down - not a lot I'd guess.
Edited by Stig on Friday 2nd November 13:11
Good thread.. for us and the factory...
I have to say I agree the factory have always been helpful over the phone.. and i agree that there are always gonna be niggles.. but if a few niggles are all that you have to put up with for owning the worlds fastest car, for only 60k then i think thats fair do's?
from previous owners i would like to see the two main points resolved.. headlight boxes.. and brake light switch pressure. I am yet to do these parts so my opinion is only from hearsay.
Also.. having build other kit cars.. i can honestly say the Ultima is a piece of piss to put together.. and its actually nice to have some to problems fix, but to my mind these problems arnt problems.
Obviously if you change from factory supplied parts they aint gonna support them.. thats just like main stream cars? Its up to you what you do and im glad the factory have taken time to give their opinion. I hope they reply to this thread also.
I have to say I agree the factory have always been helpful over the phone.. and i agree that there are always gonna be niggles.. but if a few niggles are all that you have to put up with for owning the worlds fastest car, for only 60k then i think thats fair do's?
from previous owners i would like to see the two main points resolved.. headlight boxes.. and brake light switch pressure. I am yet to do these parts so my opinion is only from hearsay.
Also.. having build other kit cars.. i can honestly say the Ultima is a piece of piss to put together.. and its actually nice to have some to problems fix, but to my mind these problems arnt problems.
Obviously if you change from factory supplied parts they aint gonna support them.. thats just like main stream cars? Its up to you what you do and im glad the factory have taken time to give their opinion. I hope they reply to this thread also.
M3desmo said:
Don't get me wrong, the Ultima is a great car and one of the best developed self build kits around, but the underlying patronising attitude is very unsavoury and certainly won't prise £60k from my wallet.
phone up BMW and tell them your changeing the uprights for some youve designed yourself, will that invalidate your warranty?, I dont think they will be too helpful - they wont even help if you bought the car abroad?!! IMHO they arnt' 'patronising or unsavoury', they are just letting you know theyre opinion? Everybody has been friendly to me?!
POLL = Issues owners would like to see addressed and number of people (in brackets) that would buy upgrades if the factory offered them.
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=3 N=0)
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0)
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=2 N=0)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0)
Number of voters (3)
INSTRUCTIONS - (for the computer impaired) No need to quote (that will get messy) Cut and paste from and including the word "POLL" above to the end of these instructions into your response and add a number in the brackets and/or something you'd like fixed to the list. Try to keep the description short.
^ Follow the instructions guys - just copy, past and ammend the above only. Add your comments below your post but don't confuse the pasted bit!! My OCD takes over otherwise.
My votes were:
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers.
Because it happends on mine and I've seen a modified version at the factory (open day) and yes, whilst vastly improved, they rubbed too.
4. Brake Light Switch.
Because my switch only works when I stand on the brakes. Where I work, this would be a candidate for vehicle recall. I fairness to the Factory, I was sent a switch to replace mine, but have yet to try it. When driving I have to be mindful of maintaining not only the correct gap infront, but also the correct gap behind!! Not easy. will report back on the new switch after winter. The no 1 issue for me.
Lucky.
PS - Good, constructive thread BTW Crafty.
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=3 N=0)
2. Wipers (Y=1 N=0)
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=2 N=0)
5. Openable side windows (Y=1 N=0)
Number of voters (3)
INSTRUCTIONS - (for the computer impaired) No need to quote (that will get messy) Cut and paste from and including the word "POLL" above to the end of these instructions into your response and add a number in the brackets and/or something you'd like fixed to the list. Try to keep the description short.
^ Follow the instructions guys - just copy, past and ammend the above only. Add your comments below your post but don't confuse the pasted bit!! My OCD takes over otherwise.
My votes were:
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers.
Because it happends on mine and I've seen a modified version at the factory (open day) and yes, whilst vastly improved, they rubbed too.
4. Brake Light Switch.
Because my switch only works when I stand on the brakes. Where I work, this would be a candidate for vehicle recall. I fairness to the Factory, I was sent a switch to replace mine, but have yet to try it. When driving I have to be mindful of maintaining not only the correct gap infront, but also the correct gap behind!! Not easy. will report back on the new switch after winter. The no 1 issue for me.
Lucky.
PS - Good, constructive thread BTW Crafty.
Stig summed it up very succinctly; there is little I can add. But I did call the Factory earlier to discuss the topics raised and, as usual, was greeted with a helpful and speedy response. Richard confirmed the following by email in reply :
"1. Wheels rubbing headlight covers – We have developed some new slimline headlight backing mouldings that clear 99% and are a huge improvement. These are available for GBP£60/pair plus VAT. Now supplied as standard with body kits since the start of October 2007.
2. Wipers – They work fine and the looks of it suit the car but we mainly advise to apply rainex which works superbly well with the shape of the Ultima Windscreen
3. Rear catch – Yes we sell a warning light system for GBP£48plus VAT which fully resolves the issue
4. Brake light switch – We now sell a better type - £12 plus VAT
5. Openable side windows – We don't offer these as an option not needed with the way the door opens on the Ultima making tolls etc easy
JUST RING OR E-MAIL FACTORY FOR ANSWERS"
I have found the rainex works extremely well. Likewise the rear catch warning system.
It's always easy to criticise. I had very few problems with the build or the final car but the Fatory were always there to help. Even in my short PH existance, they have improved several areas of the kit (e.g. wheel nuts flaking, remember that one, replaced at no cost). I have had many private and company cars and the quality and level of service provided by Ultima at least matches that of major producers.
Lastly, if you look at the topics that are up for a vote, I am sure that you will agree that they are minor issues which can be resolved quickly and cheaply in no time at all. My headlight covers catch, and my next call will be to order a pair of the new covers they have developed. Sorted.
Tony
"1. Wheels rubbing headlight covers – We have developed some new slimline headlight backing mouldings that clear 99% and are a huge improvement. These are available for GBP£60/pair plus VAT. Now supplied as standard with body kits since the start of October 2007.
2. Wipers – They work fine and the looks of it suit the car but we mainly advise to apply rainex which works superbly well with the shape of the Ultima Windscreen
3. Rear catch – Yes we sell a warning light system for GBP£48plus VAT which fully resolves the issue
4. Brake light switch – We now sell a better type - £12 plus VAT
5. Openable side windows – We don't offer these as an option not needed with the way the door opens on the Ultima making tolls etc easy
JUST RING OR E-MAIL FACTORY FOR ANSWERS"
I have found the rainex works extremely well. Likewise the rear catch warning system.
It's always easy to criticise. I had very few problems with the build or the final car but the Fatory were always there to help. Even in my short PH existance, they have improved several areas of the kit (e.g. wheel nuts flaking, remember that one, replaced at no cost). I have had many private and company cars and the quality and level of service provided by Ultima at least matches that of major producers.
Lastly, if you look at the topics that are up for a vote, I am sure that you will agree that they are minor issues which can be resolved quickly and cheaply in no time at all. My headlight covers catch, and my next call will be to order a pair of the new covers they have developed. Sorted.
Tony
Stig said:
For what it's worth:
3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0) - The factory now supply a warning light system - surely this takes care of it? As long as the latches are engaged properly, they're safe as you like.
I don't agree, it should have a proper double catch on it which is what any bonnet has especially as it has happened quite a few times and the rear clip comming up is extremelly dangerous and its very easy to not latch them properly. I was always paranoid about it.3. Rear catch (Y=1 N=0) - The factory now supply a warning light system - surely this takes care of it? As long as the latches are engaged properly, they're safe as you like.
If it was the doors then you'd not get through SVA with a warning light that tells you that the door wasn't properly latched.
For me:
1 = 1 (yes) I never had any rubbing until I went up to the factory recomended size of tyre.
2 = 0 (no) I never had a problem but I do know someone who has done a design that will keep the wiper at 90deg with the window so it doesn't scratch the glass. Never know I may be able to convince him to sell a mod for an Ultima wiper.
3 = 1 (yes) major issue IHMO as it has caused accidents.
4 = 0 (no) probably I never had a problem as I had the old factory high spec kit were the rears were rubbish and needed huge amounts or pressure more than the fronts to work anyhow.
5 = 0 (no) I'd want wind down windows (which my new project has) as slighly openeing windows wouldn't have made any difference in the canam.... If I wanted a breeze I just took the roof off!
Edited by andygtt on Friday 2nd November 14:27
actuary said:
Stig summed it up very succinctly; there is little I can add. But I did call the Factory earlier to discuss the topics raised and, as usual, was greeted with a helpful and speedy response. Richard confirmed the following by email in reply :
"1. Wheels rubbing headlight covers – We have developed some new slimline headlight backing mouldings that clear 99% and are a huge improvement. These are available for GBP£60/pair plus VAT. Now supplied as standard with body kits since the start of October 2007.
2. Wipers – They work fine and the looks of it suit the car but we mainly advise to apply rainex which works superbly well with the shape of the Ultima Windscreen
3. Rear catch – Yes we sell a warning light system for GBP£48plus VAT which fully resolves the issue
4. Brake light switch – We now sell a better type - £12 plus VAT
5. Openable side windows – We don't offer these as an option not needed with the way the door opens on the Ultima making tolls etc easy
JUST RING OR E-MAIL FACTORY FOR ANSWERS"
I have found the rainex works extremely well. Likewise the rear catch warning system.
It's always easy to criticise. I had very few problems with the build or the final car but the Fatory were always there to help. Even in my short PH existance, they have improved several areas of the kit (e.g. wheel nuts flaking, remember that one, replaced at no cost). I have had many private and company cars and the quality and level of service provided by Ultima at least matches that of major producers.
Lastly, if you look at the topics that are up for a vote, I am sure that you will agree that they are minor issues which can be resolved quickly and cheaply in no time at all. My headlight covers catch, and my next call will be to order a pair of the new covers they have developed. Sorted.
Tony
Did they mention when the 100% headlamp bowls where due out? I'd pay the extra 1%. "1. Wheels rubbing headlight covers – We have developed some new slimline headlight backing mouldings that clear 99% and are a huge improvement. These are available for GBP£60/pair plus VAT. Now supplied as standard with body kits since the start of October 2007.
2. Wipers – They work fine and the looks of it suit the car but we mainly advise to apply rainex which works superbly well with the shape of the Ultima Windscreen
3. Rear catch – Yes we sell a warning light system for GBP£48plus VAT which fully resolves the issue
4. Brake light switch – We now sell a better type - £12 plus VAT
5. Openable side windows – We don't offer these as an option not needed with the way the door opens on the Ultima making tolls etc easy
JUST RING OR E-MAIL FACTORY FOR ANSWERS"
I have found the rainex works extremely well. Likewise the rear catch warning system.
It's always easy to criticise. I had very few problems with the build or the final car but the Fatory were always there to help. Even in my short PH existance, they have improved several areas of the kit (e.g. wheel nuts flaking, remember that one, replaced at no cost). I have had many private and company cars and the quality and level of service provided by Ultima at least matches that of major producers.
Lastly, if you look at the topics that are up for a vote, I am sure that you will agree that they are minor issues which can be resolved quickly and cheaply in no time at all. My headlight covers catch, and my next call will be to order a pair of the new covers they have developed. Sorted.
Tony
As much as anything, I think this thread is good as it raises awareness of Factory product improvements. Correct me if I'm wrong, but there is no Factory Newletter to inform existing customers that their brake light switch has been replaced with a 'better type'.
I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
LuckyP said:
As much as anything, I think this thread is good as it raises awareness of Factory product improvements. Correct me if I'm wrong, but there is no Factory Newletter to inform existing customers that their brake light switch has been replaced with a 'better type'.
Thats a good point, infact i have had difficulty in knowing what options are available.. i only knew about the door latch warnings as i say the wires on the demo car and asked what they where for..I would like to see the options list!
I have found pricing the car up difficult for a self build.
LuckyP said:
their brake light switch has been replaced with a 'better type'.
I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
Good point Pete, it would be good for both factory and customer if they could be post when new/updated parts become available.I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
I'll start a topic about it and sticky it in the forum so factory *news* gets a wider audience.
Obviously some old bits will be 'new' depending on when your car was bought/built, but we'll start with the headlamp covers/brake light switch and go from there
Stig said:
LuckyP said:
their brake light switch has been replaced with a 'better type'.
I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
Good point Pete, it would be good for both factory and customer if they could be post when new/updated parts become available.I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
I'll start a topic about it and sticky it in the forum so factory *news* gets a wider audience.
Obviously some old bits will be 'new' depending on when your car was bought/built, but we'll start with the headlamp covers/brake light switch and go from there
LuckyP said:
Stig said:
LuckyP said:
their brake light switch has been replaced with a 'better type'.
I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
Good point Pete, it would be good for both factory and customer if they could be post when new/updated parts become available.I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
I'll start a topic about it and sticky it in the forum so factory *news* gets a wider audience.
Obviously some old bits will be 'new' depending on when your car was bought/built, but we'll start with the headlamp covers/brake light switch and go from there
Pics of the updated parts may prove even more useful!
Stig said:
LuckyP said:
Stig said:
LuckyP said:
their brake light switch has been replaced with a 'better type'.
I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
Good point Pete, it would be good for both factory and customer if they could be post when new/updated parts become available.I've been the target of several near misses due to brake lights not operating under normal conditions. I knew, because I approached the factory (as we all should do if we know of an issue), but many people don't call and don't read PH. It's these peeps I feel sorry for.
Lucks
I'll start a topic about it and sticky it in the forum so factory *news* gets a wider audience.
Obviously some old bits will be 'new' depending on when your car was bought/built, but we'll start with the headlamp covers/brake light switch and go from there
Pics of the updated parts may prove even more useful!
Cool.
Well done Crafty, this is exactly how most people think..."I don't want to upset the factory an loss support"..
Well i found them helpful when i had money to spend, but afterwards not so. Because i made my own Petrol tanks, gear linkage and cooling system, comments where made and Ted seemed distant at best. After spending a lot of my hard earned with Ultima I was not happy with a few item like you say Crafty, but was also not impressed with the fact they sold me incorrect fitting stuff as well...
I bought adaptor plate flywheel clutch and starter kit from them, only to find after 1500 miles that the starter was incorrect. It did not go in far enough to overlap the teeth on the flywheel, nor did it mesh far enough into the ring gear. So it wore out the starter gear.... upon asking the factory they replied with "they had never had that before", but happened to have some "spare" gears in stock....
I modified the starter adaptor plate, so the gear fully overlapped the flywheel and meshed further in. Since then I did GTRSimons new engine fit and ordered the adaptor kit from Kennedy Engineering, upon telling them about my issues they said that my 9 tooth starter was wrong and that setup should have had a 10 tooth unit. I was a little bit upset, but could understand a mistake was made.
The bit i could not understand nor condone was i knew at least 3 other people ( more since then ) that had the same setup, and after telling them they were not to happy either.
I was using my car ever day so the starter wore out very quickly, but plenty of people only use them occasionally so the problem would not show up for maybe even a few years....
So how many cars had been built with this issue ??
The factory came out with a different starter eventually but i didn't here of anyone getting an exchange unit, this to me was wrong but could only be put down to a money issue.. I was not the first to bring up this issue i have since found.... take this how you want but as customer that feels he has been missled because the of cost of admitting a factory mistake...
My windscreen got scrated by that dam wiper unit aswell, Simon's rear clip ripped out the rear catches at 150+ and he lost the rear clip !!! could have been alot worse... My wheels wear slightly smaller so i didn't get any headlight cover issues.
Well i found them helpful when i had money to spend, but afterwards not so. Because i made my own Petrol tanks, gear linkage and cooling system, comments where made and Ted seemed distant at best. After spending a lot of my hard earned with Ultima I was not happy with a few item like you say Crafty, but was also not impressed with the fact they sold me incorrect fitting stuff as well...
I bought adaptor plate flywheel clutch and starter kit from them, only to find after 1500 miles that the starter was incorrect. It did not go in far enough to overlap the teeth on the flywheel, nor did it mesh far enough into the ring gear. So it wore out the starter gear.... upon asking the factory they replied with "they had never had that before", but happened to have some "spare" gears in stock....
I modified the starter adaptor plate, so the gear fully overlapped the flywheel and meshed further in. Since then I did GTRSimons new engine fit and ordered the adaptor kit from Kennedy Engineering, upon telling them about my issues they said that my 9 tooth starter was wrong and that setup should have had a 10 tooth unit. I was a little bit upset, but could understand a mistake was made.
The bit i could not understand nor condone was i knew at least 3 other people ( more since then ) that had the same setup, and after telling them they were not to happy either.
I was using my car ever day so the starter wore out very quickly, but plenty of people only use them occasionally so the problem would not show up for maybe even a few years....
So how many cars had been built with this issue ??
The factory came out with a different starter eventually but i didn't here of anyone getting an exchange unit, this to me was wrong but could only be put down to a money issue.. I was not the first to bring up this issue i have since found.... take this how you want but as customer that feels he has been missled because the of cost of admitting a factory mistake...
My windscreen got scrated by that dam wiper unit aswell, Simon's rear clip ripped out the rear catches at 150+ and he lost the rear clip !!! could have been alot worse... My wheels wear slightly smaller so i didn't get any headlight cover issues.
GTRCLIVE said:
Well done Crafty, this is exactly how most people think..."I don't want to upset the factory an loss support"..
Well i found them helpful when i had money to spend, but afterwards not so. Because i made my own Petrol tanks, gear linkage and cooling system, comments where made and Ted seemed distant at best. After spending a lot of my hard earned with Ultima I was not happy with a few item like you say Crafty, but was also not impressed with the fact they sold me incorrect fitting stuff as well...
I bought adaptor plate flywheel clutch and starter kit from them, only to find after 1500 miles that the starter was incorrect. It did not go in far enough to overlap the teeth on the flywheel, nor did it mesh far enough into the ring gear. So it wore out the starter gear.... upon asking the factory they replied with "they had never had that before", but happened to have some "spare" gears in stock....
I modified the starter adaptor plate, so the gear fully overlapped the flywheel and meshed further in. Since then I did GTRSimons new engine fit and ordered the adaptor kit from Kennedy Engineering, upon telling them about my issues they said that my 9 tooth starter was wrong and that setup should have had a 10 tooth unit. I was a little bit upset, but could understand a mistake was made.
The bit i could not understand nor condone was i knew at least 3 other people ( more since then ) that had the same setup, and after telling them they were not to happy either.
I was using my car ever day so the starter wore out very quickly, but plenty of people only use them occasionally so the problem would not show up for maybe even a few years....
So how many cars had been built with this issue ??
The factory came out with a different starter eventually but i didn't here of anyone getting an exchange unit, this to me was wrong but could only be put down to a money issue.. I was not the first to bring up this issue i have since found.... take this how you want but as customer that feels he has been missled because the of cost of admitting a factory mistake...
My windscreen got scrated by that dam wiper unit aswell, Simon's rear clip ripped out the rear catches at 150+ and he lost the rear clip !!! could have been alot worse... My wheels wear slightly smaller so i didn't get any headlight cover issues.
I think I had that issue with the starter motor. I was in Rimini at the time. My starter/adaptor allowed 2mm of engagement and lasted around 100 starts before it ripped the pinion to bits. I had a FOC starter sent out to Rimini the next day. I think that was good service.....Well i found them helpful when i had money to spend, but afterwards not so. Because i made my own Petrol tanks, gear linkage and cooling system, comments where made and Ted seemed distant at best. After spending a lot of my hard earned with Ultima I was not happy with a few item like you say Crafty, but was also not impressed with the fact they sold me incorrect fitting stuff as well...
I bought adaptor plate flywheel clutch and starter kit from them, only to find after 1500 miles that the starter was incorrect. It did not go in far enough to overlap the teeth on the flywheel, nor did it mesh far enough into the ring gear. So it wore out the starter gear.... upon asking the factory they replied with "they had never had that before", but happened to have some "spare" gears in stock....
I modified the starter adaptor plate, so the gear fully overlapped the flywheel and meshed further in. Since then I did GTRSimons new engine fit and ordered the adaptor kit from Kennedy Engineering, upon telling them about my issues they said that my 9 tooth starter was wrong and that setup should have had a 10 tooth unit. I was a little bit upset, but could understand a mistake was made.
The bit i could not understand nor condone was i knew at least 3 other people ( more since then ) that had the same setup, and after telling them they were not to happy either.
I was using my car ever day so the starter wore out very quickly, but plenty of people only use them occasionally so the problem would not show up for maybe even a few years....
So how many cars had been built with this issue ??
The factory came out with a different starter eventually but i didn't here of anyone getting an exchange unit, this to me was wrong but could only be put down to a money issue.. I was not the first to bring up this issue i have since found.... take this how you want but as customer that feels he has been missled because the of cost of admitting a factory mistake...
My windscreen got scrated by that dam wiper unit aswell, Simon's rear clip ripped out the rear catches at 150+ and he lost the rear clip !!! could have been alot worse... My wheels wear slightly smaller so i didn't get any headlight cover issues.
....trouble was it cost me £140 pounds for the factory to send it, I incurred £300 hotel bill and lost two days of a £4000 Cannonball Run event.
Live and learn.
Lucks
interesting post
POLL = Issues owners would like to see addressed and number of people (in brackets) that would buy upgrades if the factory offered them.
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=1 N=0)
2. Wipers (Y= N=1)
3. Rear catch (Y=0 N=1)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=0 N=1)
5. Openable side windows (Y=0 N=0)
1. headlight covers do rub but i never thought it was a big issue .
2. wipers never had a problem .
3. rear catch when shut properly works fine ,although i always check it ....twice .
4. brake light switch was a issue when Dawn drove it and the factory supplied me with a new switch f.o.c
5. don,t need it its a can-am .
i will say that the lack of imformation from the factory on new products is very poor and i wish they did more for us as regards track days and events ect.
was very dissapointed with the complete lack of support for the EFI mod and i think they need to accept that owners will try and improve the product all be it in there own way .
my main concern is that without pistonheads Ultima ownership would have been a very lonely and difficult affair !!!!!
POLL = Issues owners would like to see addressed and number of people (in brackets) that would buy upgrades if the factory offered them.
1. Wheels rubbing inside headlight covers. (Y=1 N=0)
2. Wipers (Y= N=1)
3. Rear catch (Y=0 N=1)
4. Brake Light Switch (Y=0 N=1)
5. Openable side windows (Y=0 N=0)
1. headlight covers do rub but i never thought it was a big issue .
2. wipers never had a problem .
3. rear catch when shut properly works fine ,although i always check it ....twice .
4. brake light switch was a issue when Dawn drove it and the factory supplied me with a new switch f.o.c
5. don,t need it its a can-am .
i will say that the lack of imformation from the factory on new products is very poor and i wish they did more for us as regards track days and events ect.
was very dissapointed with the complete lack of support for the EFI mod and i think they need to accept that owners will try and improve the product all be it in there own way .
my main concern is that without pistonheads Ultima ownership would have been a very lonely and difficult affair !!!!!
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