You could get away with that where you live. If the authorities in Los Angeles didn't send the water police for all the spillover running down the street during your last wash in, anything else you do is small beans by comparison. Now the water company meter reader, on the other hand, couldn't count that high...
Todd, this is very different. Paul bought this combo specifically with the intent of using it as a parts donor, plus he has a nearly identical machine in better condition. Your beautiful Lady K combo on the other hand was never intended as a "parts donor". Unless I'm mistaken, it was in beautiful condition and needed no restoration, only a VERY hard to find hose.
I am very fond of those Lady K combos, so I may not like that you "sent it away never to return", but I do understand why you did.