Quote:
Originally Posted by Technic
My guess is that suppliers like Tyco, CWB, and even Molex have strict contracts with BMW for most of their connectors. For example, for three years I have been trying to order from Tyco the HiFi OEM amp using the P/N printed in it to create a harness to no avail: their response has been that "only BMW can order this part". I have tried to even get individual pins from those OEM connectors and their answer is no, I have to buy whole harnesses from them in a minimum quantity of 1000 pieces.
Yeah, right.  |
Well in all fairness, BMW did have to front additional costs for the custom connector(s), harness, etc. AMP/Tyco, Samtec, Phoenix, Molex, etc its all the same story. I cant begrudge them adding their (BMW) own cost to purchase the harness through them, provided they actually do let you purchase it.
As for minimum qty, if you only need 1 or 2 sometimes its easier going through a FE or local sales rep to get you a sample, but in all likelyhood they (the connector manufc) wont have them in stock. That tends to be the motive behind minimum orders.