And so the saga ends...peacefully...and with my own efforts.
Pool Dude calls back:
"I can get you your gasket...should run $49, it'll be in next week, I'll cut you a deal on the second service call"
Me:
"Isn't there one local?"
Pool Dude:
"If there is, I can't find it - and I've got ALL the connections"
Me:
"OK Thanks" - and I get on the phone and internet. Internet price for the gasket is $15.
I call a number of pool places here in my local area...
"Yes Sir, I have that gasket in stock...it is $12.08"
"Awesome - I'll be right there."
I go get the gasket, install it, place my filter back in service, call pool dude:
"Hey Buddy, I found the gasket locally for 12 bucks and put my filter back into service. No need for you to come back out"
Pool Dude:
I guess I can cut you a break on the service call then, I WAS the one who told you you needed a new gasket. In the future, you shold consider leaving the service to the professionals.
Me:
"Uh, OK. Thanks. I'll be SURE to call you if I need anything else" Then he charged me $20 for his expert advice vs the original $60.
So - the long story long...I fixed it with a new gasket. Took about 10 minutes and all total 32 bucks
Thank you again to all who took the time and effort to respond.
Joe