Not so much luck talking with Kitchenaid about the mixer..... they will sell a new replacement at a very slight discount or a refurbished one. Pretty much "sorry, but the warranty is out"..... It would cost $35 for shipping, $25 for a diagnostic, and minimum repair cost of $50, but could go higher.
So, in my prudent fashion, looked up the parts diagram. Took the mixer apart and low and behold..... a broken kevlar bevel gear. The ONLY plastic gear, all the rest are steel. No steel replacement made. Apparently this gear was made with the kevlar to "reduce motor noise". I would rather have a little more noise and have better dependability.
There are two of them in stock down in the city for $9 each. They will be picked up this afternoon. One will be a backup.
Took a total of 12 minutes to get the thing apart, probably the same going back together. I'll get it fixed and we'll use it until the next time. No brainer---$110+, then wait weeks, OR, $9 and 20 minutes of my time.
We thought about upgrading to the next professional size (double the power), but way expensive around $400. Now if the old one lasts for a few more years....
Needless to say, haven't done anything else but search for parts. The Jeep isn't going anywhere, tomorrow is another day!
Now I need a nap.....
