Due to labor costs, the expense of dealing with manufacturer warranties, the race to the bottom in terms of 'skill' vs 'no skill' --- what do you need skill for in today's world?

The original 'real' owner of Trane (American Standard) has left the building. Sold the entire company years ago in various parts and pieces. --- It was American Standard, who more or less made that company what it was by the early 2000's. Cracks began to appear when American Standard moved compressor manufacturing to Mexico, prior to the break up of the company in February 2007, and the eventual selling to IR later that same year. The deal was finalized in June of 2008.

Currently Trane has over 100 manufacturing facilities world wide. But this is about selling stuff more than anything else in my opinion. Trane History Channel

I guess you could argue this needed to happen for Trane to become a global company. I suppose the same could be said of Goodman being sold to Daikin.

Air conditioning is big business after all. It's only about making money at the detriment of equipment that is often times riddled with problems from the start.

Having to return old parts for new warranty parts is merely to try to stop unscrupulous contractors from cheating the system -- getting a part for nothing then selling 'used' parts. (I think you would have a hard time proving anything, because Trane is mostly shrouded in secrecy when it comes to things of this nature.)

The climatuff compressor is now used more as a trademark selling feature which is no where near what it used to be.

If you want service, you turn to a 'service provider'. There will always be those who think the name on the side of the box is what makes it work.

I service the Katy, Texas area.