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Advance Auto Parts and my Battery Experience

Started by Rams, Thu 10, Jul 2025, 11:06:59

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Rams

I had recently bought two batteries for two different Valkyries, I got a Veteran's discount and a couple of coupons on my account so, I went back to AAP to use those coupons.  The battery on my zero-turn mower (3 years old) finally gave up the ghost and died about a week ago. Grass was growing like crazy,  I needed to get with it. So, I went to AAP to get a new one. I went to AAP because I have those two discount coupons worth a total of $15.00 and they were close to their expiration date. Hey, 15 bucks is 15 bucks!

Regardless, the store manager was the person helping me, he went and first tested my battery, dead as expected. Retrieved a new battery of the same brand/size and started to ring it up, the amount was almost $80.00. So, I get my coupons out and he starts to apply them. The computer won't accept them. This is not gonna make me happy.

So, he says he'll use a discount code he has for almost the same money. I'm back to being happy.

The computer won't accept his code either...................

So without me saying anything, he knows I'm about to leave without a battery, he hits the sales key (which he can always reverse) and the total comes up with $00.00. We both looked at that price and went WOW! Told him I didn't expect that and he responded that something at corporate was screwing up and to take the battery home.

I offered to not do that but he was almost insistent so, I left with a brand-new battery and happy as a lark. Wishing I had bought a couple oil changes while I was there but didn't go back. He said, corporate was responsible, and he wasn't going to argue, said he'd report the issue.

Sure hope he didn't get in trouble but, I tried to pay twice. He wouldn't take cash or a credit/debit card.

Things like this don't happen to me, I'm waiting for the anvil to fall on my head.

Rams
VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.

Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.

Oss

does anyone else remember "The Anvil" ?

His avatar was a falling anvil

was an "interesting" fellow but a keyboard warrior, never saw him at an Inzane or elsewhere

If you don't know where your going any road will take you there
George Harrison

When you come to the fork in the road, take it
Yogi Berra   (Don't send it to me C.O.D.)

Rams

Quote from: GiG on Thu 10, Jul 2025, 11:24:35
Wow: had a near identical transaction with AAP yesterday
Got a new battery for my van free  because one I bought 2 years ago was dead (warranty had expired)
- beware falling anvils!!!  :o 

Was out this in the shop this morning about 5 AM, stayed clear of heavy objects.  The wife can't pickup an anvil but, I'm still wary when she's awake.  ;)

Rams
VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.

Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.

Jess from VA

The spirits are smiling at you.  :)

I just got my good Promaster battery at Advance Auto, and they gave good service all around.

(weighs about 10 times what a Valk battery does   ;D

HayHauler

Quote from: Jess from VA on Thu 10, Jul 2025, 13:33:49
The spirits are smiling at you.  :)

I just got my good Promaster battery at Advance Auto, and they gave good service all around.

(weighs about 10 times what a Valk battery does   ;D
Especially standing on your head to install the heavy thing!!! 

Hay  8)
Jimmyt
VRCC# 28963

Rams

Quote from: HayHauler on Thu 10, Jul 2025, 13:38:44
Quote from: Jess from VA on Thu 10, Jul 2025, 13:33:49
The spirits are smiling at you.  :)

I just got my good Promaster battery at Advance Auto, and they gave good service all around.

(weighs about 10 times what a Valk battery does   ;D
Especially standing on your head to install the heavy thing!!! 

Hay  8)
Jimmyt

True, removing and reinstalling it in the zero-turn wasn't much fun.   Had to almost dismantle the top frame to get it out.   Installing (though not fun) was easy but, then I had to bolt everything back the way it was supposed to be.   Hot weather and high humidity had me soaked in sweat but, I'm not griping, a free battery made it worth it.   :cooldude:

Rams
VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.

Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.

GiG

#6
Quote from: Oss link=topic=131732.msg1339083# :evil:msg1339083 date=1752164916
does anyone else remember "The Anvil" ?

His avatar was a falling anvil

was an "interesting" fellow but a keyboard warrior, never saw him at an Inzane or elsewhere

yeah, I remember Advil - caused headaches

Way to stay on top of things, Ron!
My dear sweetheart swings a mean frying pan  :o  I even tell the dog get out the kitchen ( he doesn't
Understand "Duck" ) , I've got him covered  :roll: 
I have frying pan shaped bruises on head & torso, no sensitive areas 
Everything is - Nothing is .


When you come to a fork in the road - TAKE IT!
(send it to OSS)

I'm putting in a call to the League Office!   🎳

Serk

Just a friendly suggestion, but if a representative from Advanced Auto Parts shows up and asks you to stand on the large X they've put in your garage, do NOT, under any circumstance, stand on the large X they've placed in your garage!
Never ask a geek 'Why?',just nod your head and slowly back away...



IBA# 22107 
VRCC# 7976
VRCCDS# 226

1998 Valkyrie Standard
2008 Gold Wing

Taxation is theft.

μολὼν λαβέ

Rams

Quote from: Serk on Thu 10, Jul 2025, 17:44:36
Just a friendly suggestion, but if a representative from Advanced Auto Parts shows up and asks you to stand on the large X they've put in your garage, do NOT, under any circumstance, stand on the large X they've placed in your garage!


Have seen way too many Road Runner cartoons to fall for that one.   :2funny:

Rams   :cooldude:
VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.

Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.

RP#62

When we moved to Phoenix, one of the things I had them move was the shop anvil.  A young mexican kid carried it from the moving van to the garage and asked where to put it.  I told him and then he asked what are those things for.  I told him that you drop them on coyotes.  He nodded and you could see the wheels turning and he finally said I seen that on cartoons, but that can't be what its for.  The crew got a good laugh at that one.

RP
 

Challenger

Quote from: Oss on Thu 10, Jul 2025, 11:28:36
does anyone else remember "The Anvil" ?

His avatar was a falling anvil




Didn't want to hi-jack the battery thread, but yeah I remember Anvil.  He was on the same playground as Strong Eagle  :2funny:





Jess from VA


Serk

Quote from: Jess from VA on Fri 11, Jul 2025, 12:08:48
Let sleeping dogs lie. 

I was gonna say.... ya' know he can see you, right?

I checked his profile. Hasn't posted in over a decade, but checked the forums today...

(Side rant - as our numbers dwindle we should encourage more folks to participate here, but that's just me...)
Never ask a geek 'Why?',just nod your head and slowly back away...



IBA# 22107 
VRCC# 7976
VRCCDS# 226

1998 Valkyrie Standard
2008 Gold Wing

Taxation is theft.

μολὼν λαβέ

da prez




                                  M E E P- M E E P    :2funny: :2funny:



                                                        da prez

Jess from VA

Quote from: Serk on Fri 11, Jul 2025, 12:11:25
Quote from: Jess from VA on Fri 11, Jul 2025, 12:08:48
Let sleeping dogs lie. 

I was gonna say.... ya' know he can see you, right?

I checked his profile. Hasn't posted in over a decade, but checked the forums today...

(Side rant - as our numbers dwindle we should encourage more folks to participate here, but that's just me...)


I'm all for more knowledgeable and helpful members.  But I can live without troublemakers who's idea of a good post is to poke you in the eye with a stick.   

Serk

Quote from: Jess from VA on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 12:07:38
Quote from: Serk on Fri 11, Jul 2025, 12:11:25
Quote from: Jess from VA on Fri 11, Jul 2025, 12:08:48
Let sleeping dogs lie. 

I was gonna say.... ya' know he can see you, right?

I checked his profile. Hasn't posted in over a decade, but checked the forums today...

(Side rant - as our numbers dwindle we should encourage more folks to participate here, but that's just me...)


I'm all for more knowledgeable and helpful members.  But I can live without troublemakers who's idea of a good post is to poke you in the eye with a stick.   

While I agree, the addition of a dedicated forum for poking each other in the eye has been a blessing for those who wish to avoid such posts, while still enjoying the camaraderie of shared purpose.
Never ask a geek 'Why?',just nod your head and slowly back away...



IBA# 22107 
VRCC# 7976
VRCCDS# 226

1998 Valkyrie Standard
2008 Gold Wing

Taxation is theft.

μολὼν λαβέ

Jess from VA

Quote from: Serk on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 13:28:26
Quote from: Jess from VA on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 12:07:38
Quote from: Serk on Fri 11, Jul 2025, 12:11:25
Quote from: Jess from VA on Fri 11, Jul 2025, 12:08:48
Let sleeping dogs lie. 

I was gonna say.... ya' know he can see you, right?

I checked his profile. Hasn't posted in over a decade, but checked the forums today...

(Side rant - as our numbers dwindle we should encourage more folks to participate here, but that's just me...)


I'm all for more knowledgeable and helpful members.  But I can live without troublemakers who's idea of a good post is to poke you in the eye with a stick.   

While I agree, the addition of a dedicated forum for poking each other in the eye has been a blessing for those who wish to avoid such posts, while still enjoying the camaraderie of shared purpose.


I suppose that's true although the P & M was created more for political posting than just arguing (I think).  It's morphed into daily news and politics.  I mostly avoid it, but get drawn in from time to time. 

I don't mind disagreement and difference of opinion and spirited discussion.  It's been a long time, but I seem to remember those (couple) guys just came here to cause trouble and disrupt and just piss people off (for fun). 

I suppose saying this to someone in Texas is funny, but I can't wait for hot weather to be over.  The only breaks we're getting is giant thunderstorms and torrential rain.   :crazy2: 

Serk

Quote from: Jess from VA on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 14:47:47
I suppose saying this to someone in Texas is funny, but I can't wait for hot weather to be over.  The only breaks we're getting is giant thunderstorms and torrential rain.   :crazy2: 

Heh, I'm waiting for riding season to start as well, usually September/October here... I just took (As in I just walked in and sat down) my first ride since we got home from our epic Inzane trip. 90's and humid with spotty thunderstorms, but it was good to get out.

Now I'm trying to work up the gumption to go back into the heat and try fixing my Valk (No clutch, and Progressive sent me some new 412's I need to put on (Instead of just fixing my old 440's, but that's a grumble for another day.)
Never ask a geek 'Why?',just nod your head and slowly back away...



IBA# 22107 
VRCC# 7976
VRCCDS# 226

1998 Valkyrie Standard
2008 Gold Wing

Taxation is theft.

μολὼν λαβέ

Jess from VA

#18
I've had 2 pair of 440s in boxes for years; like backups.  Either new or barely used (can't remember and can't tell).

My lower miles Interstate with the airbrushed dragons on the bags had pair of 13" 440s with a spring rate good for 500lbs of riders forever.  Great on perfect roads, but both feet down was always a stretch for me (and less than great on crummy roads).  

I finally pulled out a backup set of lower spring rate (for my new 150lb self) 12.5" 440s and put them on and the improvement is tremendous.  Why I waited so long I have no idea (yes I do; lazy procrastinator  ;D)  

Also moved over a much better set of Hwy pegs for my short legs from the other bike (long discontinued Kuryakyns with big 4-screw clamps and offsets).  Had to cut the scoops off the bike to get them on the lower guards.

Brian, I know you just got new 412s, but if you want those higher spring rate 13" 440s, they're yours for shipping. ('Progressive Suspension 1365 120/170' printed on the springs; good bushings and look like new except for a few nicks).  It will be a heavy package.


Ron, I'm sorry this thread is so hijacked.   :roll:   


Rams

Quote from: Jess from VA on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 16:55:24

Brian, I know you just got new 412s, but if you want those higher spring rate 13" 440s, they're yours for shipping. ('Progressive Suspension 1365 120/170' printed on the springs; good bushings and look like new except for a few nicks).  It will be a heavy package.


Ron, I'm sorry this thread is so hijacked.   :roll:   



No problem, if Serk doesn't want those 13" 440s, I'd be happy to pay the shipping on them.

Rams
VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.

Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.

Serk

Quote from: Jess from VA on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 16:55:24
Brian, I know you just got new 412s, but if you want those higher spring rate 13" 440s, they're yours for shipping. ('Progressive Suspension 1365 120/170' printed on the springs; good bushings and look like new except for a few nicks).  It will be a heavy package.


I REALLY appreciate the offer, but after sweating about 3 gallons taking my ~25 year old totally blown out 440's off and putting the new 412HD's that Progressive reluctantly sent me in lieu of rebuilding the "Lifetime warranty" 440's, I think I'm good...

Even though The Republic doesn't put mileage limits on a vehicle with antique plates, I don't see the Valk getting more than a few thousand miles a year from here on out, at best.


(I'll start a new thread on tonight's adventure.)
Never ask a geek 'Why?',just nod your head and slowly back away...



IBA# 22107 
VRCC# 7976
VRCCDS# 226

1998 Valkyrie Standard
2008 Gold Wing

Taxation is theft.

μολὼν λαβέ

Jess from VA

OK, I get that.  I was hoping to make the offer before you put the new ones on.

That right lower shock bolt is a real joy to work with. 


Jess from VA

Quote from: Rams on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 19:18:47
Quote from: Jess from VA on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 16:55:24

Brian, I know you just got new 412s, but if you want those higher spring rate 13" 440s, they're yours for shipping. ('Progressive Suspension 1365 120/170' printed on the springs; good bushings and look like new except for a few nicks).  It will be a heavy package.


Ron, I'm sorry this thread is so hijacked.   :roll:  

No problem, if Serk doesn't want those 13" 440s, I'd be happy to pay the shipping on them.

Rams

OK Ron, shoot me a PM with your address.  It may take me a few days, and I'll use UPS and send them slow/cheaper ground unless you want something else.  

Rams

Quote from: Jess from VA on Sun 13, Jul 2025, 05:50:05
Quote from: Rams on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 19:18:47
Quote from: Jess from VA on Sat 12, Jul 2025, 16:55:24

Brian, I know you just got new 412s, but if you want those higher spring rate 13" 440s, they're yours for shipping. ('Progressive Suspension 1365 120/170' printed on the springs; good bushings and look like new except for a few nicks).  It will be a heavy package.


Ron, I'm sorry this thread is so hijacked.   :roll:  

No problem, if Serk doesn't want those 13" 440s, I'd be happy to pay the shipping on them.

Rams

OK Ron, shoot me a PM with your address.  It may take me a few days, and I'll use UPS and send them slow/cheaper ground unless you want something else.  


:cooldude:
VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.

Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.

h13man


[/quote]

True, removing and reinstalling it in the zero-turn wasn't much fun.   Had to almost dismantle the top frame to get it out.   Installing (though not fun) was easy but, then I had to bolt everything back the way it was supposed to be.   Hot weather and high humidity had me soaked in sweat but, I'm not griping, a free battery made it worth it.   :cooldude:
Rams
[/quote]

Same ritual 2x a year for me. Just have to be Houdini to tighten down the battery hold down.

Had the GMC puke a Duracell battery a couple weeks ago after 5 yrs. One corner fender brace and battery box support removal and $160 later....

cookiedough

#25
maybe I can get lucky at adv. auto parts not liking the 15-20% off coupon?  I need 2 ATV batteries, one for sure the other is iffy at best,  and at least 1 cycle battery for both Valks and my scooter taking the same ytx14-bs battery for all 3.  Since I can ONLY ride 1 cycle at a time, one battery for 3 cycles outta do since not a high mileage rider anyways.  Heck, been so busy every darn weekend with yard work, garden, house nightmares to deal with still ongoing,  cycling is not on my list of things to get done.

It has been TOO HOT, yah I know not 90 out but mid 80's still too HOT for me, but gotta try patching still the 2 golfball sized holes in my enclosed trailer roof(got duct tape over them I hope still????) and going to attempt to use JB weld (lots of it) to patch up the 20 or so slices of my composite plastic roof of my brand new 7x8ft resin shed roof that golfball sized hail did as well, currently got duct tape over the cracked resin roof all over but has been leaking in a few places I see inside.   Trying to save my money by not using the 1200 bucks Erie Insurance gave me to replace my brand new 7x8ft resin shed I put up recently, since the darn Erie Insurance claims adjuster will NOT go up to full replacement cost of my roof which 4 outta 4 contractors I contacted is impossible to replace 20 sq. roof for 12K most 13.5 to 14K and the darn claims adjuster is being a jerk, to put it mildly.  I might just have to cough up extra 1 grand or so outta pocket and get it done since hiring an attorney for arbitration at 275hr. will be more than it is worth, but DROP Erie Insurance come September renewal along with my insurance agent also useless.   

cookiedough

I also tried calling up SUNCAST on my shed roof just getting 2 roof panels, but with shipping charges being CRAZY for two big panels being 7x8ft OVER 400 bucks total for 2 parts and shipping, that is crazy high for sure.  I might consider driving my truck down to middle part of IL wasting 80 bucks in gas or more to get the 2 roof panels still be 300 bucks total vs. over 400 if shipped them to me.  will see how 20 bucks of JB weld goes first sealing up the resin cracks all over on roof?  nothing that high priced in my 7x8 ft shed anyways besides gardening stuff and old snowblower

Rams

Quote from: cookiedough on Sun 13, Jul 2025, 22:15:05
maybe I can get lucky at adv. auto parts not liking the 15-20% off coupon?

I have my doubts about this.
The Store Manager who sold me my "Free" battery said there was a problem at Corporate, something wrong in the sales/discount system.   I'm pretty sure, whatever the glitch was has been fixed by now.


Rams
VRCC# 29981
Learning the majority of life's lessons the hard way.

Every trip is an adventure, enjoy it while it lasts.