Crappy feedback from Pelican Parts - IMS Guardian

[kjc2050]

Not the end of the world by any means, but it really disappoints me when a merchant can't give me an accurate answer to a simple, direct question.

A week ago I emailed Pelican Parts and asked if the IMS Guardian kits they are currently selling are the latest generation from LN Engineering. The response I received, from someone named Kenny, follows:

Hello Kevin ,
Part # PEL-115000-GLS is the most current update form LN we just got our shipment a week ago.
Thanks!

The reason I asked is that the latest generation kit has provision for an additional audible alert. I went ahead and placed my order.

The kit arrived today. Well, the kit's "black box" in fact appears to lack the connections for the additional buzzer/alarm, and the inspection stamp on the box is dated 3-23-12. Sweet!

As I said, I'll survive, but I am mightily disappointed that someone at Pelican was incapable of giving me a straight answer to a VERY simple question.

Oh yeah - I also called them before ordering, and whoever I spoke to assured me that the kits they're selling are the latest generation. I'll install the kit as is, but this has been a frustrating experience.

Perhaps I'm wrong... I'll include a picture of the box. If there's a way to connect an external alarm to this black box, I'd appreciate it if someone could let me know.



FWIW, the inspection stamp:

[Jaxonalden]

Isn't that the audible alarm there on the side?

[kjc2050]

Yes. The latest gen enables you to connect an additional alarm, if you wish. This doesn't appear to be that latest version. I was interested in that version specifically, as some have commented that with the top down, it can be difficult to hear the standard alarm. In addition, for nearly $400, I'd just as soon have the latest, greatest version.

[Jaxonalden]

I've learned something today.

[ppbon]

... but you asked the wrong question.
The IMS Guardian has two different versions (with two different prices)
The standard IMSG is what you got an then there's the one with the 12VDC outlet.
I know because I sell and install them.
Happy Boxstering
Pedro

[kjc2050]

Pedro, thanks. Here's a link to the Pelican page: IMS-Guardian It only shows one kit.

Perhaps Pelican only sells the one version?

If that's the case, can you only get the upgraded/12V DC kit from LN?? (Their site shows only one kit, one price, by the way.) Flat 6?? I'm confused.

[Ghostrider 310]

If that button alarm on the side held by only two screws is indeed the alarm for version one, why can't you just extend the wire connections to it and mount it closer to the cabin or under the dash for better ability to hear it?

[kjc2050]

Perhaps, but...

I'll try to mount it so it's as close as possible to the dash, as I don't want to tamper with the black box for fear of messing it up somehow.

[ppbon]

Originally Posted by Ghostrider 310

If that button alarm on the side held by only two screws is indeed the alarm for version one, why can't you just extend the wire connections to it and mount it closer to the cabin or under the dash for better ability to hear it?

... not enough juice to drive anything else other than the buzzer.
On mine, I added an extra "idiot light" using an LED bulb so that I can see it when I'm at the track.
But anything external you hook up to it voids the warranty.
Happy Boxstering
Pedro

[Ghostrider 310]

Originally Posted by ppbon

... not enough juice to drive anything else other than the buzzer.
On mine, I added an extra "idiot light" using an LED bulb so that I can see it when I'm at the track.
But anything external you hook up to it voids the warranty.
Happy Boxstering
Pedro

I like your idea even better, I'd modify it if I was doing it. After all if it fails, getting a new rebuild or engine from the makers of the guardian isn't implied. If it's meant to warn let it warn.

[Homeboy981]

Sounds like you just ought to get a refund and THEN MAKE SURE, I don't KNOW how you could have done different, you have the right version.

Seems like you have a legit argument, have you called Pelican about this, and will they do an exchange OR refund?

Better not to modify unless you plan to keep. My $.02

[Ghostrider 310]

fair point homes, it is a new part, glad not to have an IMS anymore.

[kjc2050]

Originally Posted by Homeboy981

Sounds like you just ought to get a refund and THEN MAKE SURE, I don't KNOW how you could have done different, you have the right version.

Seems like you have a legit argument, have you called Pelican about this, and will they do an exchange OR refund?

Better not to modify unless you plan to keep. My $.02

I haven't called them yet. I imagine they'll want me to pay the 15% restocking fee. Grumble, sigh...

[Homeboy981]

Originally Posted by kjc2050

I haven't called them yet. I imagine they'll want me to pay the 15% restocking fee. Grumble, sigh...

@kjc2050,

I feel your pain, just make sure you explain it the way you have to us. Pelican has been understanding in the past. This is not an issue of YOU making a mistake and, therefore, should not be subject to a re-stocking fee.

@Ghostrider 310,

Hey Ghosty, we still good after that Halloween joke? Never been called 'homes' before. Kind of shortens it up for me. I cannot help but notice your car is eerily similar to the car on the cover of the Porsche Panamara magazine, October edition. How did they catch ya?

[thom4782]

My recent experience with Pelican was very good when facing a similar situation.

I ordered a part, namely a drier for the A/C system. When I received it, I had a concern and got it touch with customer service. They were very professional and acknowledged that they understood my concern and why I wanted to return the part. Pelican authorized the return and promptly refunded my payment without a restocking charge.

My impression is that Pelican is willing to waive the restocking charge when there is a legitimate reason other than the customer simply changed his or her mind.

Suggest you call Pelican and discuss what happened. You might be pleasantly surprised.

[kjc2050]

Tried calling them today but they're closed. I'll give them a call on Monday. As I said earlier, not the end of the world, just a little disappointment.

[Jake Raby]

The unit pictured does not have the external output built in. It cannot be upgraded without changing the circuit board.

That said, to make this simpler you can send us the system and we'll update it for 20 bucks. The upgraded unit will have a (+) and (-) lead that will allow the use of any 12V accessory light or alarm with up to .5 amp draw.

I know these systems, that unit was built 20' from my office and I developed the entire system. Direct your questions to us for straight answers.

FYI- The "Latest" kits are those with a manufacture date after 8/2012.

[kjc2050]

Jake,

Thanks for your response, offer, and straight talk. Question: other than the external terminals, are there any other differences between the pre- and post-August units?

[Jake Raby]

Originally Posted by kjc2050

Jake,

Thanks for your response, offer, and straight talk. Question: other than the external terminals, are there any other differences between the pre- and post-August units?

NO. No other differences.

[kjc2050]

Jake,

Thanks. Good answer, because (I'm a little impulsive) I began doing the wiring on Saturday. After reviewing the directions several times, that seemed to be the thing that could chew up some time. I haven't made the electrical connections - just have everything in place - so when I actually do the install, that part of the process will be a snap. (Keep in mind the weather has turned here in the vast wasteland of Nebraska, so I'm in no particular hurry at this point.)

As for the 12v output, no big deal. It would have been nice, but it's certainly not a deal breaker. I do appreciate your upgrade offer, though - very gracious of you.

I have some suggestions for improvements to the instructions, if you're interested. I shot a few photos as well.

Thanks again.