Update:
I heard back from Outlaw and they explained the above to me, which I wasn't aware of. It will be useful to know for the future.
More importantly, although I may have come off as harsh, it was more disappointment that I had purchased a second 970 as a emergency replacement and it kind of backfired on me.
But Outlaw is offering a compromise on the cost of repair which is fair considering the unit is technically 6 years old but never opened.
I just wanted everyone here to know that they are attempting to make it right for their loyal customers.
So in the end it will still end up costing me a little for repair but I will have a working 970 that I will use this time.
Thank you everyone at Outlaw for your exceptional customer service.