Hi All,
Here is the resolution to my Gitzo tripod repair issue.
Originally, Gitzo wanted to charge me $600 to replace my totalled 1348. Gary from Hunts and his Gitzo rep sold me a 3541LS tripod for $300 to make the situation right with me. Can't say enough about how hard they worked to make this happen....as always when dealing with Hunts....great customer service!
I did agonize over this decision for a while as many of you have had the same/similar issues but I figured I would pay that for the repair.....so it was worth it. I do think the debate was worth it so that you all could make up your own mind as to wheter it is worth it. Here is my final response;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGCAve4K2uA
Hope it gives you at least a chuckle!


