MartinRS2K
Active member
+2 [
]Where do we go from here?
- Thread starter pauljmcnulty
- Start date
+2 [
]
pauljmcnulty
Active member
I'm not sure that to say "if it ain't broke" is an excuse not to explore the future, and how we might need to move forward?
When I first joined Titanic it was populated with people who are very different from the new owners we see now, although that's a huge generalisation of course. At the time you couldn't by a 944 for much less than £5K, and turbos in any condition were well over £10K. Far fewer people did their own maintenance, more cars were pampered concourse examples, rust was virtually unheard of, and the main complaint was the first signs of series one dashes starting to crack! Titanic wasn't a friendly place towards the end though, with people getting very touchy about it changing. Where is it now? A sad loss, I loved it, but we do need keep changing in this fast-moving world IMO.
The 944 Register has changed massively in the time I've been involved. We used to get 100-plus 944s to our National event, now I struggle to get 30 to an anniversary. Yet, we have masses of smaller meets organised here, which get a great turnout. Things move on, and I certainly think the forum's attitude to traders/specialists is now hopelessly out of date, for example. Some things are, I feel, verging on being "broken", which was why I asked the questions. Thank you for indulging me! [&:]
When I first joined Titanic it was populated with people who are very different from the new owners we see now, although that's a huge generalisation of course. At the time you couldn't by a 944 for much less than £5K, and turbos in any condition were well over £10K. Far fewer people did their own maintenance, more cars were pampered concourse examples, rust was virtually unheard of, and the main complaint was the first signs of series one dashes starting to crack! Titanic wasn't a friendly place towards the end though, with people getting very touchy about it changing. Where is it now? A sad loss, I loved it, but we do need keep changing in this fast-moving world IMO.
The 944 Register has changed massively in the time I've been involved. We used to get 100-plus 944s to our National event, now I struggle to get 30 to an anniversary. Yet, we have masses of smaller meets organised here, which get a great turnout. Things move on, and I certainly think the forum's attitude to traders/specialists is now hopelessly out of date, for example. Some things are, I feel, verging on being "broken", which was why I asked the questions. Thank you for indulging me! [&:]
Ex Titanic poster here, i am pretty much leave as is, i frequent both this and TIPEC and occasionally PH forums but this one is my main forum. Good info here and on the whole good manners, we have saw some bans and rightly so as those particular individuals had been warned time and time again about their attitude to other posters and frankly deserved it.
Traders are fine with me as long as they just give good advice which in turn will see them gain business for their companies i am okay with links to their products and would have a look if they interested me.
One offs trying to flog stupidly priced spares etc should be stopped sharpish.
My one gripe is the time allowed between submitting posts, i am sure there is a reason for this but have not figured it out.
There will be no doubt some things that could improve but nothing glaringly obvious.
Traders are fine with me as long as they just give good advice which in turn will see them gain business for their companies i am okay with links to their products and would have a look if they interested me.
One offs trying to flog stupidly priced spares etc should be stopped sharpish.
My one gripe is the time allowed between submitting posts, i am sure there is a reason for this but have not figured it out.
There will be no doubt some things that could improve but nothing glaringly obvious.
pauljmcnulty
Active member
it came from when Brett (who could forget him...) fell out with the forum because we stopped him promoting his little computer spares shop on every post. He set up a very crude attempt to melt the forum down with billions of posts, but the time delay meant there were only a few hundred when we were alerted to it in the morning.
It's currently only two minutes, and the platform has a minimum of 1 minute as, I guess, a build-in safeguard. Whether that's going to make a difference if we set it to the minimum i don't know, but then I do ramble....[&:]
I will ask again. Certainly it's worth addressing when we get a new forum. Perhaps there's a better safety option where one poster can only post a maximum number of times in an hour before a time limit kicks in, or something.
All the best. Brett. [
][
][]Does that big V8 bring a smile to your face whenever it rumbles into life every morning? []
I liked Brett. As much a to55er on this forum as he was in real life. And he was given the order of the boot from Pistonheads at around the same time, I seem to recall ...
Please can the post time limit be reduced? Please, please, pretty please? It drives me up the wall ... I know I type faster than most, but I can have two or three short posts written within the two minute limit!
Oli.
]I liked Brett. As much a to55er on this forum as he was in real life. And he was given the order of the boot from Pistonheads at around the same time, I seem to recall ...
Please can the post time limit be reduced? Please, please, pretty please? It drives me up the wall ... I know I type faster than most, but I can have two or three short posts written within the two minute limit!
Oli.
pauljmcnulty
Active member
Consider it raised. [
]To be honest I can't see it being a problem as we've only had Brett's half-hearted amateur attempt to deal with. North Korea haven't attacked us yet. [&:]
Another ex Titanic member here...
I think you're right Paul. Much as I liked the format of it at the time, things change and we have to keep an eye on what is going on in the world if we are not to fall by the wayside. That said, I am another who is generally happy with our forum as it is... In terms of non-members - keep it open to them - with a 944 sooner or later one of them is going to join the club to borrow the belt tensioning tool! But really... I'd rather have the widest audience possible when I want advice/buy something/sell something/whinge because I have had a bad day. I'm quite happy for them to enjoy a bit of my membership fee. The moderation I can't comment on, because I haven't seen what I'm not allowed to see;-), but I'm happy with what I do see, and can live with what narks me. Traders -personally I would rather see if someone has trade connections than not. It makes it easier to appraise the advice given if it involves going out and buying bits. I'm in two minds about combining the 968/924s in with the 944. One one hand, it is frustrating that the advice is very limited on the 924 section (that said, that which is there is very good - you know who you are;-)), but equally, throw an unusual car into a big forum, and you end up with a lot of mis-advice from people who think they know what they are talking about.
You don't have to - he is still shaking the walls of Dorset with his 928... oh, and he has a brother... now also with a 928, sure to be in the club before long if not already!
I think you're right Paul. Much as I liked the format of it at the time, things change and we have to keep an eye on what is going on in the world if we are not to fall by the wayside. That said, I am another who is generally happy with our forum as it is... In terms of non-members - keep it open to them - with a 944 sooner or later one of them is going to join the club to borrow the belt tensioning tool! But really... I'd rather have the widest audience possible when I want advice/buy something/sell something/whinge because I have had a bad day. I'm quite happy for them to enjoy a bit of my membership fee. The moderation I can't comment on, because I haven't seen what I'm not allowed to see;-), but I'm happy with what I do see, and can live with what narks me. Traders -personally I would rather see if someone has trade connections than not. It makes it easier to appraise the advice given if it involves going out and buying bits. I'm in two minds about combining the 968/924s in with the 944. One one hand, it is frustrating that the advice is very limited on the 924 section (that said, that which is there is very good - you know who you are;-)), but equally, throw an unusual car into a big forum, and you end up with a lot of mis-advice from people who think they know what they are talking about.
ORIGINAL: pauljmcnulty
it came from when Brett (who could forget him...)
All the best. Brett. [
[
You don't have to - he is still shaking the walls of Dorset with his 928... oh, and he has a brother... now also with a 928, sure to be in the club before long if not already!
aporschefan
PCGB Member
For what it's worth, I'm a 'guest' and enjoy reading the threads and appreciate the help and support the online community offers to a point I am now thinking of becoming a paid member. Personally, I wouldn't pay to become a member and hope that that forum is worth the fees alone.
This is coming from someone who was a member years ago.
The 2 minute rule is frustrating and it appears there are different ways to tackle the problem so hopefully that will make it a little frustrating using the forum.
Regarding traders, I think it would be great to have the likes of Jon Mitchell posting here more frequently. allowing them to have a link to their site in the signature and only list prices if asked sounds reasonable. Their status could be marked as trader so everyone is aware.
I do read PH and tipec but enjoy the atmosphere on this forum a lot more.
This is coming from someone who was a member years ago.
The 2 minute rule is frustrating and it appears there are different ways to tackle the problem so hopefully that will make it a little frustrating using the forum.
Regarding traders, I think it would be great to have the likes of Jon Mitchell posting here more frequently. allowing them to have a link to their site in the signature and only list prices if asked sounds reasonable. Their status could be marked as trader so everyone is aware.
I do read PH and tipec but enjoy the atmosphere on this forum a lot more.
Ewan
New member
I too am happy with the forum "as is". Though making it easier to post photos would be good. It's something I have to look up how do every time I want to, so generally don't bother. It's far easier on the Maserati forum I use (as an example).
Never tried the PH or Tipec forums as never had the need. The 944 section of the PCGB forum is enough for my 944 needs.
Keep guests as well as members. And allow traders, as long as it clear they are traders, and as long as the posts are not overly blatant adverts for their services. My job often requires me to comment on yachting forums and it's perfectly easily for me to give advice without advertising, so can't see it being a problem here. And if any individual post from a trader does over step the mark it simply gets amended or removed. Easy.
Never tried the PH or Tipec forums as never had the need. The 944 section of the PCGB forum is enough for my 944 needs.
Keep guests as well as members. And allow traders, as long as it clear they are traders, and as long as the posts are not overly blatant adverts for their services. My job often requires me to comment on yachting forums and it's perfectly easily for me to give advice without advertising, so can't see it being a problem here. And if any individual post from a trader does over step the mark it simply gets amended or removed. Easy.
Diver944
Active member
It's actually a huge pleasure moderating the 944 section of the forum and I'm immensely proud with how it's developed over the years. It is by far and away the largest section of the forum yet we hardly ever have to do any moderating that is more extreme than just a gentle public reminder. In fact I've almost forgotten where the delete, lock and ban buttons are []
However I now have a huge gripe - I've just noticed that Mcnulters has finally knocked me off third place in the number of posts league. Now just where is that delete button?
]However I now have a huge gripe - I've just noticed that Mcnulters has finally knocked me off third place in the number of posts league. Now just where is that delete button?
Ex Skyline
New member
No it hasn't. Geared up mainly to pander to 911 owners. Save the tree's me thinks.[
]
924nutter
PCGB Member
Hollow victories all. Helen Goff would be on about 12,500 by now; always tantalisinly just in front of Mark Bennet. [ORIGINAL: Diver944
It's actually a huge pleasure moderating the 944 section of the forum and I'm immensely proud with how it's developed over the years. It is by far and away the largest section of the forum yet we hardly ever have to do any moderating that is more extreme than just a gentle public reminder. In fact I've almost forgotten where the delete, lock and ban buttons are [
However I now have a huge gripe - I've just noticed that Mcnulters has finally knocked me off third place in the number of posts league. Now just where is that delete button?
]
MarkK
Well-known member
I think this forum is pretty special,I think the great thing about it is the camaraderie and the friendship that springs from our little cyber interactions on here,my heart was so happy when just before the Rutland meet I opened the door to a gaggle of 944s burbling on my drive and we had a chat and laugh about nothing in particular,a couple of the chaps even showed me how to oil the chain properly on my mrs mountain bike!!!!.I am very grateful for this forum I love the pictures that are posted, the technical chat that I can sometimes understand and sometimes I can't,I love people helping each other out, with advice and also physical help with parts and spannering!,people popping by on race day and saying hi even if I have never met them in the flesh before,I like the debates about values,the ribbing back and forth about turbos and S2s,this place makes me happier more of the time than not,on the rare occasion and it is rare that things get heated to the point of silliness - I must say that makes me sad, things can be debated strongly without silly personal digs,doesn't have to always be super agreeable and cheesy nice but a certain amount of respect for people we spend time with virtually and re life illy (I invited a new word...!!)is just what I think makes this a cool place to be.I think a teeny bit of fruity language from time to time is ok,we are all blokes together but every second word in a post is not cool.
I hope to be a small part of this forum for a long time to come, my dream would be to have a 944 in my garage till the fat lady calls time and this place adds to the ownership experience.Long may it continue.As it is is fine with me in answer to the question,more meets are good but that's it as far as my suggestions go.
Have a nice Easter break[]
I hope to be a small part of this forum for a long time to come, my dream would be to have a 944 in my garage till the fat lady calls time and this place adds to the ownership experience.Long may it continue.As it is is fine with me in answer to the question,more meets are good but that's it as far as my suggestions go.
Have a nice Easter break[
]George Elliott
New member
Paul,
as other said, its a good forum, I too enjoy it, keep the standard at current level, great source of info, interesting entertaining people doing interesting projects.
somehow relax the traders restriction, the policy actually prevents them meeting a specialist demand that exists with us all, but don't open the floodgates to non-specialist sellers.
The only irritation I ever had was the non-member message when I was a paid up member....seemed stupid - but now its correct, although I would join again - can I have my old 43951 Member No'? It seemed appropriate
Posting an image remains a mystery, perhaps it could be easier.
Ref the future, its a good question. Clearly most of us don't want a changed format. I think the model Register will follow a course which is determined by what happen the model. The owners will be the result of the cars future, as opposed to the cars being the outcome of the owners. If you identify what is likely to happen the car/model in future it will answer your question I think.
There will be fewer cars, so fewer owners
The cars will get older, and so will the owners[]
The cars become more costly to maintain, so the owners will have to be in a position to spend more
The good cars will become more valuable, so there will be more garage queens
Fewer daily drivers, so less everyday problems, questions posts
Migration of members to Caymanland.....and 996tt
just my two pennies
keep up the good work
George
944t
as other said, its a good forum, I too enjoy it, keep the standard at current level, great source of info, interesting entertaining people doing interesting projects.
somehow relax the traders restriction, the policy actually prevents them meeting a specialist demand that exists with us all, but don't open the floodgates to non-specialist sellers.
The only irritation I ever had was the non-member message when I was a paid up member....seemed stupid - but now its correct, although I would join again - can I have my old 43951 Member No'? It seemed appropriate
Posting an image remains a mystery, perhaps it could be easier.
Ref the future, its a good question. Clearly most of us don't want a changed format. I think the model Register will follow a course which is determined by what happen the model. The owners will be the result of the cars future, as opposed to the cars being the outcome of the owners. If you identify what is likely to happen the car/model in future it will answer your question I think.
There will be fewer cars, so fewer owners
The cars will get older, and so will the owners[
]The cars become more costly to maintain, so the owners will have to be in a position to spend more
The good cars will become more valuable, so there will be more garage queens
Fewer daily drivers, so less everyday problems, questions posts
Migration of members to Caymanland.....and 996tt
just my two pennies
keep up the good work
George
944t
944 man
Active member
The key for traders needs to be knowledge, not self-interest, although Id be happier if everything stayed as it was. Id like to add Bert Gear to my earlier list of people who canoffer something tangiable.
I particularly dont want o see self-interested breakers being allowed to pimp their tat even more than they already do.
I particularly dont want o see self-interested breakers being allowed to pimp their tat even more than they already do.
George Elliott
New member
John, very nice - does not sound like you will be migrating, or are you in claiming garage queen status?!
Simon, not sure I understand your concern over self interest (of traders). We all derive a crust from some activity or other.
Vehicle Breakers - selling used parts at varying stages of wear and various cost levels
Tuners - selling modified parts / packages at varying levels of engineering
OPC's - [][][] these guys are not too Charitable in my experience, but they make a living out of us all
You / me / the population - doing what we do for a living
I have sourced parts from Porsch-apart for example and would recommend them, Promax have supplied me parts and advice, recent example : last week the 4 wheel alignment I was having done - the Technician was having difficulty with the rear toe / camber setting. I called Promax, got the Alignment guy speaking to Michael (instantly - no music, no queue, no call back), he faxed him a sketch within minutes, and the problem was solved. Jon at JMG has explained many detail M44/52 engine questions to me - most helpful, a mine of info, Bert supplies parts to me occasionally. Exeter & Belfast OPC - I have gallantly contributed to their marble floors in the past when there was no alternative.
It would be good if there was a relaxed attitude to these folk making an honest living, and the BIG plus for us all is, we can benefit from their knowledge and experience. For example, if one of them offered a high quality 944 Sill Replacement Package, it would be a shame if they could not tell us / advertise it here.
And finally, if PClubGB want to charge them mildly for permission, well I am sure they have costs to cover too, so there is a source of revenue.
George
944t
Simon, not sure I understand your concern over self interest (of traders). We all derive a crust from some activity or other.
Vehicle Breakers - selling used parts at varying stages of wear and various cost levels
Tuners - selling modified parts / packages at varying levels of engineering
OPC's - [
][][] these guys are not too Charitable in my experience, but they make a living out of us allYou / me / the population - doing what we do for a living
I have sourced parts from Porsch-apart for example and would recommend them, Promax have supplied me parts and advice, recent example : last week the 4 wheel alignment I was having done - the Technician was having difficulty with the rear toe / camber setting. I called Promax, got the Alignment guy speaking to Michael (instantly - no music, no queue, no call back), he faxed him a sketch within minutes, and the problem was solved. Jon at JMG has explained many detail M44/52 engine questions to me - most helpful, a mine of info, Bert supplies parts to me occasionally. Exeter & Belfast OPC - I have gallantly contributed to their marble floors in the past when there was no alternative.
It would be good if there was a relaxed attitude to these folk making an honest living, and the BIG plus for us all is, we can benefit from their knowledge and experience. For example, if one of them offered a high quality 944 Sill Replacement Package, it would be a shame if they could not tell us / advertise it here.
And finally, if PClubGB want to charge them mildly for permission, well I am sure they have costs to cover too, so there is a source of revenue.
George
944t
944 man
Active member
Given the choice Id exclude all traders George. This isnt my choice though, so I was making a constructive comment about my preference and in my opinion, what would be best for thre 944 forum should the policy be changed.
The most that should ever be allowed though (because more ruins forums, so people take note), is helpful advice, which is why I have proposed the firms and indivisuals that I have. With regards to breakers: we already have one idiot who does little other than start threads to promote his tat, an he isnt even a knowledgeable or decent breaker. This is the last thing that the forums needs.
The PCGB website appears to have something valuable, but appears not to realise and I am concerned that my favourite forum on the whole internet is about to become just like the others.
The most that should ever be allowed though (because more ruins forums, so people take note), is helpful advice, which is why I have proposed the firms and indivisuals that I have. With regards to breakers: we already have one idiot who does little other than start threads to promote his tat, an he isnt even a knowledgeable or decent breaker. This is the last thing that the forums needs.
The PCGB website appears to have something valuable, but appears not to realise and I am concerned that my favourite forum on the whole internet is about to become just like the others.
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