Balto - First of all, welcome to the site. You will never find a better wealth of information, or generally some of the nicest people on the net. That being said, as in all communities, there are a lot of different personalities here, and a lot of different viewpoints. To warn you - you will see arguments on politics, unions, news, opinions, politics, guns, hunting, unions, and well...you get the point.
That being said, the people you see on these off-topic boards bickering are actually some of the people who have been with this community since it's inception many years ago and helped make the site what it is today. They are truly the nicest people who would not only give you advice, but would offer to even come over and help you first hand if they could. I can speak for Tom (Caymen) personally, that while he may get into off-topic scuffs with a few members here, when it comes to matters of Sport Tracs and Ford, he's a respectable and honest resource. He has helped me many times, and has even helped my friends. I would not write him, or anyone else you see on these boards off completely.
Please just try to have a thick skin in this particular section. The off-topic section has evolved a lot since I've been here (2003) and this current look (where it is its own board) just happened in the last month or so. People are still getting a feel for it.
Just hang in there and yes, you may want to steer clear of this particular section until you get to know everyone here. It's a great group, regardless of the bickering. I think you will truly like it here and grow to really appreciate everyone for what they bring to the site.
Best of luck to you! And again, welcome!