If it still works good why replace?
what not working right? I have a 20ga about the same age and MEC made it brand new some years ago. It is a 76 Hustler. Lot cheaper to fix than replace because in my opinion not much has changed in them. Less metal and more plastic. Have 3 and use same motor for all 3.
A friend of mine was having problems with his old hydrohalic. He was seriously thinking it was worn out and buying a new one like you. He called MEC and they advised shipping the loader and hydraulics back to them. They adjusted, replaced parts and shipped everything back. He saved a lot of money. Have you called MEC regarding the issues you are having? Suggest while talking with MEC asking them a range of repair costs and shipping this is everyday event for them. Shipping everything isn't easy or cheap however going to UPS or Fedex helps. While my friend setup was at MEC after a couple of weeks he called and inquired when it would be returned. MEC customer service said that they a unusually high number of loaders to repair while having a reduced number of workers due to Covid because new and old shooters are using or buying old loaders. By the way, he is very happy with his old repaired loader.
