So, I recently bought a 4L60E transmission on eBay. I paid and the seller ended up shipping it just by UPS when I was under the impression it was coming by freight. Anyhow, A few days later, UPS rolls up and tries to deliver the transmission. When the driver and I go to the back of the truck to lift it out, he opens it and I immediately notice 2 large cracks in the top of the bellhousing. The trans was shipped JUST wrapped in a few sheets of plastic. No protection AT ALL. So I refused delivery and took pictures to send to the seller. I sent the pictures and explained to him the condition. He told me he'd file a claim with UPS and get me a full refund, also that he insured it for double the ebay sale price. So thats was fine.
A few days go by and I hear nothing really, so I filed a claim with eBay. the seller then contacts me back saying he'll send refund for the item in 2 days or less and refund for shipping as soon as UPS refunds him. Ok fine whatever, I'm thinking. Well that was 4 days ago, and now this morning, the seller let the claim on ebay move forward to review and I now notice that ebay buyer protection does NOT cover an item if it was refused for delivery. So now I know I'll be out of luck there and I can't file with Paypal(at least just yet) because it shows open dispute through ebay. I did email Paypal and explained the situation.
I have a good feeling that UPS looked at the packaging and said "tough luck" and denied any claim. So he then noticed the loophole for the refused delivery and knows he wont be held liable. So at this point, it seems I'm out a few hundred bucks like it or not. I will say though, that the internet is wonderful in the fact how people allow information to be accessible. If I don't get at least a 90% refund, he will get a knock on his door...
