I the OP say again:
I followed the manual to the letter. The Dealer took it apart and informed me of the scored piston.
Dug-I am not blaming the dealer, he's stuck with this corporate mess as well.
It was a 2008 saw that was bought in 2011. 2008 seems (based on the forums) was a bad year.
I don't know how long that saw was at the dealer of if is significant.
I know that I didn't cause the "lack of lubrication" and I did not abuse the saw in any way.
I think it is only fair to let them (Dolmar) know I feel they sold me a defective saw.
This is based on my careful usage and reports of many other 5100s failing with scored pistons.
Ask those users, I bet they read, followed the instructions AND the saw still failed!
THAT is why I am pushing it up the chain. They have my money. I want a working saw.
Its been two months, what would you do?