OK... I know this is the internet and me saying this probably wont change anything, but I'll give it a go. The reason that we effectively have "2 sides" forming over this topic is not because of "what" is being said, but because of "how" it's being said. As a pastor I deal with this sort of issue all of the time. In most cases you have two or more individuals that have a misunderstanding because of the tone or language used in conveying an idea.
Diesel Brad - I am not sure how you meant your original statement of "Really, 40 bucks is going to break you?", but it sounds as if you are saying "man you must be pretty poor to not be able to afford $40 in parts". The reason I am addressing this issue rather than just letting it die is because you followed up by asking the question "did I say something wrong" Now you may not have meant it to be rude (I prefer to think that you didn't), and you may be thinking "why would that offend someone". Lets take a similar statement that may make it clearer.
Imagine that someone came up to you and said "really, your wife is that ugly"; or "really, your that big of a moron"... these statements would be considered incredibly offensive. Now I am not suggesting for a minute that what you said was even in the realm of these statements, but the same principle applies. We should all say things in our head and even out loud before posting them directed toward someone else. The way that you worded your original statement to Dyoung seems to imply a couple of things
1. That you don't have to worry about insignificant sums of money like $40.
2. That there must be something wrong with Dyoung because he does.
Now like I said earlier, this may have not be your intent, but you seemed to use some fairly strong wording towards another member. There is nothing wrong with expressing your opinion, but please remember that even though this is the internet, words can still just as easily tear someone down as they can build someone up. That's why I like a family oriented forum like oilburners... less drama and more encouragement and helpful ideas.
Mods - I hope that me expressing these ideas doesn't offend anyone or make your job harder, have an awesome new year's eve!
I'll hurry and throw in my 2 cents before its too late! 
GOOD JOB dyoung14 on your home made return line kit. 
