True or false: a shop can only service a reg you buy from them?

[scubatoys]

The main issue is free parts... Some of the Manufacturers offer free parts for life if it's under warranty and purchased through an authorized dealer. Depending on the shop - that will be $20 - $60 per year in savings... so it doesn't take long to chew up a $100 price difference... Also if you hit an authorized dealer - any recall or other warranty problems will be addressed. We actually have a plan for our customers, that if they get a reg from us - and we service it when required (either once a year or every other year depending on the reg) we drop the price of service to $39.95 and parts are free for life.

Just add up all your options and see what is best in the long run for you...

Personally, I'd say stick to an authorized dealer... but then again... I'm a bit biased!

[awap]

I have heard of a few shops who refuse service - this is really stupid. Unfortunately, other shops will simply charge more if they know you purchased from LP. I suggest you settle any cost issues before you even bring a regulator into the shop. I really like those shops that put prices up on the wall for all to see. Also, don't confuse the "LP punishment tax" with price discounts that some shops give on regs that are purchased in that shop. The best way to tell the difference is to compare prices and attitudes with other shops in your area.

[cb900c82]

ScubaToys Bubbled:
“Also if you hit an authorized dealer - any recall or other warranty problems will be addressed.”

Maybe I should post this under the LDS Scams, but… When I purchased my Vytec from an “authorized” dealer, I didn’t know it was affected by a recall. Once I learned about it, I called the LDS I bought it from (which was very adamant about my filling out the warranty info prior to my leaving the day of the purchase. And I’ve never seen anything that indicates the paperwork was turned in) they first acted like there wasn’t a recall. Then after asking someone else about it, I was told if there was a recall, I would have to box it up and ship it back to Suunto at my expense. The LDS couldn’t even provide a shipping address. I took the computer to another shop, explained that I had indeed bought it somewhere else, but would they help me. Not a problem. I dropped it off with them, and they called me the day a replacement came in. I was out only the gas to get there. I hope I don’t need to explain which LDS I’ve been back to on a regular basis, and which I steer others away from.

[matt_unique]

If a shop will not service the gear bring your dollars elsewhere. I purchase my gear at a shop with the best prices then get my gear serviced by a shop with the most knowledgeable equipment techs.

--Matt