I will be installing a rebuilt tranny in my car in the coming weeks.
So, I looked around for the best ATF I could find. After some research and in talking with TEP, I decided on Amsoil Dex6.
My question: I don't understand their business model. Specifically, they seem to be setup through distributors. They're not in any storefront I can find or at any internet parts store (amazon, RockAuto, Advance Auto, Checker, etc). So - I call around the local disctributors and I can get "retail" pricing.
I then go on the Amsoil website, and I can get retail pricing there too. I process the order and there is something about being a preferred customer. I click the link. Basically, for $10 (the registration fee to become a preferred member), I can buy wholesale. Since I need 14 quarts, I click the link, run the math, and I'm saving $35 or so on this order, so it's a no brainer (a net $25 savings).
My question: being a "preferred customer" allows me to buy at wholesale right off of their website. This, near as I can tell, is the same price the distributors PAY. So, my question is, what is the point of the Amsoil distribution model?
It seems to me that you would be foolish to be an Amsoil distributor when your customers can buy it wholesale directly from Amsoil.
What am I missing?
