Dealer support was a major factor in not buying it for $500 less online. They told me they would stand behind what they sell. I was a little sceptical but now I'm a believer.
I wish more users that are shopping BBS and online for "deals" would read this thread!!! We don't recommend buying from a dealer just because we did....or because dealers will be the lowest price....or because dealers are our friend or just nice guys:0)
Whenever you are spending THOUSANDS of dollars on a piece of equipment, just the comfort of knowing that if something bad happens(like it did with you), the dealer will take care of it and the peace of mind that brings is worth way more than $500. I'm certain you agree. Enjoy that M-ZT 61, you have purchased a quality machine and I'm certain that dealer will help you any way he can to keep it like new for many, many years to come.
P.S.
As minor as your problem turned out to be, if you had purchased online you would have been responsible for contacting Husqvarna, getting directed to an authorized repair center(probably the same dealer), had to transport the ZTR for repairs, been put in a long line of others awaiting warranty service who were not "customers" of the dealer and waited your turn. That one experience would have made the $500 online discount seem pretty lame:0(
