mmmm doen't look like a happy thread to be in.
On elbee111 defence I did notice there was no mention about a deposit at the start of the thread. On EXAUNV defence this is the way most group buys work, if you want to get something cheaper you buy in bulk right? So to buy in bulk you need to money, so to get the money if your like me, poor, you need people. Without the people you can forget about the group buy.
When you ship items from overseas you pay the manufacturer 50% before the items ship and 50% about 5 days before arrival. Thats why most group buys require 50% deposit.
Most people don't mind paying the 50% and waiting a little while because they know they are getting a good deal when they participate in a group buy. Try getting a cooler at autobarn for $220. That wont even get you a blow off valve.
elbee111 if you want a cooler without paying there usually is 1 or 2 coolers unpurchased when the kits come in. You may aswell just wait till they arrive then pay COD if you don't want to secure yourself a cooler. Well thats how my group buys work anyway..
peace