I'm curious to know what sorts of experiences others have had in
getting parts and service for their LS gliders since DG has assumed
ownership.

I am trying to buy an LS-3-17 from a fellow pilot at our field. The
airframe has 3000 hours, and therefore requires a major inspection in
accordance with procedures specified by LS. Among the squawks
identefied were brass spar bushings being out of tolerance, and worn
needle bearings in the aileron and flap hinges. The needle bearings
have been discontinued and DG recommends replacing them with nylon
ones used on LS-8s.

DG has charged the inspector up to 100 euros per question to clarify
the inspection procedure or to FAX needed diagrams (the running total
is about 300 to 400 euros). The inspector is unable to get DG to
respond to his parts order, but was able to get parts for another LS-3
in September. He has enlisted the help of the US distributor for DG
in the U.S. to get the bushings and bearings but the distributor has
been met with no response as well. Even if the bushings are not in
stock, the nylon bushings should be available from the LS-8s.

Has anyone else been delayed in getting parts or a response from DG
for their LS gliders? I have also not heard of other glider mfg's
charging money to answer questions. This does not seem to be a
customer friendly practice, especially in light of DG's promises to
stand behind the LS line.