I was after a power steering pump for my 94 Jeep Wrangler. Called up Jeep Republic, the owner said they had one and to come pick it up. I drove 40 miles round trip. Was greeted by the owner who showed me the pump but it did not look like the right one. He then led me to the back of the parts shop where he had multiple pumps. I found what I thought might work and asked the mechanic standing nearby if he would walk out and look at my wrangler to verify it's compatibility. He said "yes, it will bolt right on".

Here's where it get interesting...

I walked back in the store and was again greeted by the owner who asked me if I found what I was looking for. I told him his mechanic said it would bolt on. He said "that's out of a Cherokee not a Wrangler". I replied by saying I'm not sure what pump I actually need and I'm relying on your expertise to guide to the right one.

He then began some sort of psychological game with me telling me "Guys like you don't know what you're doing, do you" Then he would laugh. He said this three or four times. I wasn't sure what he was implying or if he was joking?

Then he said "Let's write up a work order, we'll make sure it works if we install it." I answered with a No all I want is the part I called about. He then told me I don't what I'm doing and "Let's write up a work order".

I was still, at this point, going along with what I thought was a joke - he then said "Come on, I'll walk you out." And approached me as if he was driving me to the door.

I asked, you're not going to sell me the part? He replied "Nope, get out of here."


I have to say this was one of the most bizarre encounters I have had and the kind of berating comments were extremely personal. I'm not sure what this guy's issue was but I would not wish this experience on anyone.