Talked to St. Croix and they recommened I send it in using their Gold Star Plan. Their rep did not give me a set price but said the repair would be no more than $50 and I would have to pay shipping both ways. The local guy said he would do it for $20 plus the cost of guides (going with alconites on just the top 4), so I left it with him. I decided I'll just put the money I would have spent on the upgrade toward a new rod. Maybe a nicer St. Croix or I might even see what all the fuss G.Loomis creates is about.
Thanks for all the replies. I've been lurking on the forums forums for a little over a year and think its a great place.
Pancho