There is another issue. I know from having my Viking serviced, and from hearing from other folks on the board, that since Viking sold to Singer and moved their operations to China - it has been difficult for us to get parts. Not just repair parts either - accessories as well. I had a walking foot on order for several months before it finally came in.
So ... this guy could be waiting on the part.
Also ... Joanne's might not be telling you something correct with regard to him being the "only" certified viking repairman. My guess is the dealers won't work with Joanne's so they have to utilize a non-dealer repairman. I went to the Viking website and did a search on dealers within 100 miles of Columbus. Generally dealers will repair (generally). I see three in Columbus, one in Dublin ... and a few others.
Here's the link.
http://webservices.us.vsmgroup.com/D...x?Brand=Viking
Of course if this is warranty work I'd make sure that another dealer will honor the warranty. If not ... leave it where it is.