Hi Justin
I'm watching this thread with interest (as probably are many others) and am looking forward to your dad's evaluations. I'm an electronics Eng with SMD (those tiny electronic components inside) and full machine shop facilities, so if you need any help with electronic/mechanical components then just let me know.
I nearly got hold of someones failed EA unit once and was going to do similar, but alas it never materialised
Feel free to PM me
Lea