Don,
Funny thing is, most stealerships are ahole predicated. Meaning that one day you get a complete derrière and another day you might be approached by the nicest down to earth person imaginable. Odds are that you get the ahole though which is sad. As in most everything these days, you have to take matters into your own hands. You have to know what you want and even what the part numbers are. Huh? Well order a rear brake light switch for our bikes. See if the counter person ask you if you want some banjo washers too. Chances are they won't and when the part comes in you will have to order the banjo washers and wait another week.
So what happens when you find one of those rare and elusive mechanics who take pride in their work? Well they usually either end up getting a better offer and leave the stealership where they have suffered indentured servitude, or they go start servicing motorsickles in their Dahlonega pole barn.
Now speaking of a great dealership parts department, and the place I order parts from, Second Wind BMW Triumph in Merrimack, New Hampshire. 603-598-2697. Ask for the parts manager: Joe Liebke. Simple, direct, and the parts are shipped to your door. Yes, I order parts from New Hampshire and live in Florida!
Not too often do we find a mechanic whom we trust to service our bikes. Paul Reunion was one of those. Triumph Corporate stole him away though! There are a couple of guys locally who I would trust as well when those times call for a valued second opinion or the times call for a more involved repair. When Paul was around I wouldn't bother with small stuff. Paul would get the work. Were I in Lumpkin County GA, Chy would be seeing a lot more of Vera Lynn and Cinnamon Girl! But the 500 miles is a bit too far for chain kits and valve adjustments!
Point? Don't write off Moto400. Keep em in your back pocket as one day you just might walk into the place and be approached by someone who gives a dern!
I hope you get things sorted out soon. Wrenching with a dislocated thumb has got to feel real good.
as does worrying about ripping out those 7 stitches.
