FranPetersen,
If you are somewhat handy, have the tools, and know how to work SAFELY around electrical equipment, you can do the job yourself to replace the transfer switch. But, it does require lying on your back in the basement to get access to the transfer switch, so some people do not want to (or can't) do that. I replaced my transfer switch myself a couple of years ago. As I recall, the cost of the replacement was around $500, but I think it is a bit more now. My model is TRC Surge Guard 40250. The vendor is Technology Research Corporation (TRC). See this link:
50A Hardwire PLUS | Technology Research Corporation
There have been many issues related to bad/loose wiring connections to/from the transfer switch. You might want to check into this possibility, also. See these links:
http://www.irv2.com/forums/f104/elec...tch-36097.html
http://www.irv2.com/forums/f104/no-a...wer-42098.html