Quality Differences Between Aftermarket Parts Sources?

ArcticMinibike

ArcticMinibike

Active Member
My apologies if this has been asked before but I didn't find any threads addressing exactly what I'm looking for...

As I start the restoration of my CT70 K3 that I've had for 35 years, I'd rather avoid or minimize supplier pitfalls and make use of your collective experiences.

I need mostly engine rebuild parts (gaskets, bolts, seals, valves, piston), carb rebuild kit, and maybe a wire harness. With the exception of a couple of things they don't have, is DrATV my best bet for quality on aftermarket stuff or would the others be just as good, or better?

There are specific items I'll have to get from CHP and NEVC, but on general commodity items, I'm open to suggestion.

I've been around the Arctic Cat minibike world for a long time and know which sources have the best repro parts, BUT it depends on the item. Decals one place, tires and fuel system another, etc.. It took many years to develop that knowledge and I was burned a few times in the process. I don't shop on price alone but if "parts is parts" on a specific item, I'll go with the best price. Gaskets, for example...is it worth spending extra for name brand or OEM?

I'm in Omaha, NE so DrATV is an obvious local choice. I'm a little over an hour away from them but NO local pick-up allowed. Too bad. I'd be in the car right now. CHP and NEVC look decent too.

Any general thoughts on which places are preferred depending on the aftermarket item? Thx!
 
Gary

Gary

Well-Known Member
I have not bought parts in quite awhile and in fact never purchased from DrATV. Many here have and seem to have had good experiences. I have bought from CHP,I have always had had good experiences with them and would not hesitate but others I have heard have not had the same. NEVC used to be able to find some really nice NOS stuff for any of my Hondas,they are great guys to work with. Don't underestimate your local Honda dealer either. I had a good relationship with my local dealer,I would bring in the part numbers so they did not have to look them up and would get a discount. Things like screws and gaskets were completive and I did not have to pay shipping.
 
kirrbby

kirrbby

Well-Known Member
A lot of the engine parts are available from Honda, or genuine OEM/nos thru the vendors you've mentioned. I buy alot from DRATV and haven't had any problems with service or quality. Tbparts is also excellent. Nevc has been great too. CHP is awesome, but some of their repop stuff has been iffy...shocks, led HL bulb, and maybe some switches that have failed for some LH members. I would shop price and use your own good judgement. Like when you see big differences in price for the same part, there is probably a reason. DRATV doesn't like phone calls, but is pretty good when you email. Most vendors are pretty good and will tell you when the quality is poor. I tend to use the vendors whose website is easy to navigate. I also buy a ton on eBay, snatching up deals when I see them. You can't go wrong using genuine Honda parts in your engine. After that, the vendors mentioned are all very good. If you submit a order with DRATV, and then email asking if there are any better options, if the parts work together, is this a good piston kit, etc. They will give you good answers.
 
CTKing

CTKing

Active Member
I would agree with Kirrby. DrATV is always running smoking deals on eBay with free shipping! Only had one issue with something I bought and he shipped a replacement free of charge. Have also had good luck with CHP but sometimes the shipping is a little slow.
 
OLD CT

OLD CT

Well-Known Member
I use DRATV for all of my engine needs. Jack has never let me down. Fast email response on his ebay store. Although, I mostly use his non ebay store. If there is a problem with the order which isn't often, he has always made it right. I have recently went back and forth about an issue I had with a part and he did more than most parts suppliers would do and spent the time back and forth e mailing, to resolve the issue.
He refunded my $ and sent a free part to boot, on him and asked if there was anything else I needed. I really appreciated that.

Pat
 
T

tinkerer

New Member
Hi All!

I am starting my CT70 project, and all I have now is a 1974 CT70 frame that's in great condition (with Vermont registration and plate!). Because I have nothing and would like to travel up to 60 MPH I want to get a modern disc brake front end, 2 inch extended swingarm, and 140 to 190 cc engine. I've seen some listings on ebay from dr.ct70-411 help, and they have the modern front end for approx. $325 plus shipping. Anyone have any experience with this vendor, or the front end? Welcome all feedback!

Thanks,
Tinkerer
 
red69

red69

Well-Known Member
As most here will tell you, STAY AWAY from that vendor. The guy is a scam artist, jerk, idiot, etc. Take your pick.
 
T

tinkerer

New Member
red69 said:
As most here will tell you, STAY AWAY from that vendor. The guy is a scam artist, jerk, idiot, etc. Take your pick.
Click to expand...
Thanks for letting me know. I was afraid of that. Anyone have a recommendation for an aftermarket disc brake front end? I’ve seen several at tbolt, chp, etc, prices are all over the map. Is the inverted setup really any better?

thanks again and have a great Thanksgiving
 
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