Persistence Pays

ge_rik

British narrow gauge (esp. Southwold and W&LLR)
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On another thread, you will have seen I've recently acquired a Silhouette computer controlled card cutter for a very good price on eBay. It came without a power supply, instructions or any accessories (which is why it was cheap). I tracked down a power supply and then searched for a blade to replace the one with which it was supplied. The best value was on Amazon
Amazon Silhouette Blade A.jpg

This is an adjustable blade - 0-10 determines the depth to which the blade cuts. I was reassured by the photo and the description which clearly states that the 'adjustment tool' is supplied (the grey knurled knob).

When it arrived there was no adjustment tool - just the blade.
IMG_3096.JPG

I went into my Amazon Account and clicked the 'Return Item' button. I filled in the forms giving the reason I wanted to return it (Incomplete). When I clicked Submit I was informed that the item was not eligible for return. I tried again, giving a different reason (Not what was purchased). Same response. I tried twice more giving different reasons. Same response.

There was a link to Amazon's Terms and Conditions - but nowhere could I see any reason why this product was not eligible for return.

I now clicked on 'Contact Us'. I gave my phone number and was phoned back immediately by a robot. I responded to all its questions and was told the item was ineligible for return - no reason given. I tried again, responding slightly differently - same response.

I now tried the online chat option. Another automated series of questions with the same outcome.

At this point I started to look for info on Consumer Protection legislation - ie The Sale of Goods Act.

I tried the online chat again and this time got a different set of questions prefaced with "We see you have contacted us previously, would you like to chat with a representative". There wasn't a "Too bloody right I do!" response so just clicked "Yes".

I kept my cool and explained my problem. After a few exchanges, the representative replied saying I could have a full refund and there was no need to return the product. Not quite the outcome I wanted, but at least I now have £12's worth of blade for free - though I still need to track down the adjustment tool (I've found a 3D print file for one on Thingiverse BTW)

So, in future, I know I need to go straight to the Online Chat section and when I get thrown off it, I'll remember to return a second time and should get through to a human being. Worth bearing in mind for future reference.

Rik
 
Keeping the item, is your reimbursement for the two hours of your life you won't be able to get back..
:rolleyes: :mask:

PhilP
 
Rick, I noticed that’s the blade is £12.67, if you want the adjuster then that package is £25.66, though it does say it is subject to the returns policy.
 
Rick, I noticed that’s the blade is £12.67, if you want the adjuster then that package is £25.66, though it does say it is subject to the returns policy.
No Jim, the offer is for a blade with ..... a cutting mat.

blade with mat.jpg

The blade is supposed to come with the adjustment tool. I've tracked down one on eBay which definitely does include the tool. However, it's an auction so won't know for a couple of days if I've won it.

ebay blade.jpg

Rik
 
No Jim, the offer is for a blade with ..... a cutting mat.

View attachment 309023

The blade is supposed to come with the adjustment tool. I've tracked down one on eBay which definitely does include the tool. However, it's an auction so won't know for a couple of days if I've won it.

View attachment 309024

Rik
To add insult to injury, when I tried leaving a review for others warning them that the blade doesn't come with the adjustment tool as shown and described, my review was rejected because it contravened Amazon guidelines.

Rik
 
Looks like I'm not the only one ..... Maybe my review wasn't innocuous enough.
Review.jpg

Rik
 
Update on this. I 3D printed an adjustment tool - not as neat as the proper one but - IT WORKS!!

So, my first effort with the cutter was to cut out some letters from self adhesive vinyl for my goods stock.
IMG_3126.JPG

Just a quick trial to check everything works as expected - which is why they are a bit wonky.

I'm awaiting delivery of some matt vinyl sheets to do a pukka job. But Houston we have Lift Off!!!

A few niggles getting the driver to communicate with the cutter - but after a bit of troubleshooting and a few computer restarts I got there - Phew! Not bad for a £19.99 (plus £8 pp) 'Untested' eBay purchase.
ebay page.jpg

Sometimes, it's worth taking a punt.

Rik
 
Rik,
Do you have any of the media you used for transmitter fronts left?
I am using labels designed to stick to shipping containers. Possibly a little expensive, but not as if you need acres of labels?

PhilP
 
Rik,
Do you have any of the media you used for transmitter fronts left?
I am using labels designed to stick to shipping containers. Possibly a little expensive, but not as if you need acres of labels?

PhilP
Yes, I've used my last couple of sheets for testing the cutter.

Rik
 
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