Is this roto-tiller repair bill reasonable? And what are our options?
Friday, January 30th, 2009
Maryfrances asked:
We have a big Troy-Bilt tiller (I think it’s the biggest one; costs $2800 new; might be the next one down, $1900 new). Had the engine rebuilt 3-4 years ago for $250. This year, it wouldn’t run. When I dropped it off for repair, he gave me the impression it would be a simple and cheap repair. I asked for a wag on the price–maybe $50-100? He didn’t say, but said he’d call me if it was expensive. I just found out he replaced the carbeurator and wants $425. I did NOT authorize that kind of repair!
Not having authorized the repair, I can demand he take the carb back and give me my tiller back, right? Of course, I don’t know what we’d do with it–I mean, a tiller that won’t run isn’t worth anything at all (I do not need a space-taker in the garage!), but still. . .
We have a big Troy-Bilt tiller (I think it’s the biggest one; costs $2800 new; might be the next one down, $1900 new). Had the engine rebuilt 3-4 years ago for $250. This year, it wouldn’t run. When I dropped it off for repair, he gave me the impression it would be a simple and cheap repair. I asked for a wag on the price–maybe $50-100? He didn’t say, but said he’d call me if it was expensive. I just found out he replaced the carbeurator and wants $425. I did NOT authorize that kind of repair!
Not having authorized the repair, I can demand he take the carb back and give me my tiller back, right? Of course, I don’t know what we’d do with it–I mean, a tiller that won’t run isn’t worth anything at all (I do not need a space-taker in the garage!), but still. . .
I was really looking forward to having a garden this year, but realistically speaking, we don’t get that much out of it. I’m not sure it’s worth another $425.
Any suggestions? We can’t do the repair ourselves
He said it was ruined by the ethanol separating out of the gasoline and sitting in the carb.
Discount Electric Tillers for Sale
