I am VERY confused. We use the Jow Blow pumps in the shop, and have for many years... without any problems. Although we own an air compressor in the shop, we pump everything by hand. So you can imagine how many times the pumps are used. We also have been selling these pumps for many years, and have never heard of any issues.

Although this sounds like a stupid question, was the employee that you spoke with at your LBS familiar with the Joe Blow pumps? Even if you had a problem with yours, there are repairs kits available to replace any of the working parts.

At any rate, good luck with your new pump.