mrlarryj,i didn't get that good of a deal for my 296 but fair i suppose.i paid around $2,200 for mine with front and rear chains including tax.$1,700 is almost too good to be true.i was quoted $1,700 for a new 286 but the 296 is a little more expensive and has a better backed warranty on the gear box,5 years vs 2 years on the 286.
hope this helped,
whitearrow->>>-------------->