Originally posted by klh I agree that it seems like they are only interested in replacing the guts rather than a proper repair. It seems to me that going with the licensed repair facility should get you the best options. I would consider other shops if there was a chance they could get any parts that were needed.
Sounds like the problem is from water damage from the rainy soccer match shoot. The problem with weather-sealed bodies is that they keep water in as well as out - maybe even better. Another member at one time posted images of moisture damage from condensation. It's not pretty. Other than spending hundreds of hours cleaning and checking the continuity of every trace, connection and solder as well as testing each component the only practical fix is replace. The top plate has flex-boards, dials, LCD, buttons, etc. All vulnerable to corrosion from moisture.
Here's an example of damage from condensation on a circuit board:
By all means get a second opinion. You would have to send it to a Ricoh Authorized Repair center because they are the only ones that can get parts. The only one I know of other than Precision is Advance Camera in Oregon and perhaps KEH Camera in Georgia. Note in some cases both will send the equipment to Precision for repairs they can't handle. And sometimes Precision will send the equipment to Japan for the repair.