I'm sure some MCCI members have outbid other members for a particluar item, either knowingly or unknowingly.

By doing just a little research, 75% of the time a 'bidder' or 'seller's' identity can be determined (ie., as being "one of the guys" or not).

I have come across a few Mav/Comet items before and didn't place a bid because I knew (or was 90% sure) the high bidder was an MCCI member and didn't want to 'step on a brother'.

On my left shoulder is the MCCI angel saying "Don't outbid another MCCI member. He or she really needs that part too. They found it before you. You should let them have it."

On my right shoulder stands The American Capitalist saying, "So what if your Mother's the highest bidder so far? You need the part! Wait till the last second and outbid her old ass!"

After spending WAY too much time deliberating, I've decided that if I need the part, no matter WHO is high bidder, I'm going to bid up to my limit to get the part - maybe at the last available second too!

However, If a 'known' member outbids me, big deal. I'll eventually find a similar part.

If I outbid the (known) member, big deal. He/she will enventually find a similar part.

Last but not least: The SELLER may actually be an MCCI member and deserves to get a fair return on his/her investment. By NOT bidding on the item, I've possibly caused the fellow member to not get the maximum amount on the item he/she deserves.

My username on eBay is "rickbook" (bet you couldn't have determined if I was a member or not). Please do not hesitate to outbid my 'old ass' anytime. I'll find a simlar part eventually.

Let me know your thoughts,