The Mod 8.5 Buckle Revisited

Yo, from reading all the posts about the buckle quality, I assume that
when K2 and salesmen say "push in the tounge", or "Close the cuff top
by hand as you ratchet" means that ratcheting the buckle tight could
strip the strap, but once tightened, the strap will hold its position
while skating.
Does anyone know what the 2004's have for a buckle? I cant find any
info on the 2004's.
There is a pair in town here on closeout, and I would love to pick
them up and send them to K2 and just have new ones put on now, instead
of sending them in for repair in the peak of skating season next year.
K2 has always been cool with warranty and other concerns, what are the
chances of them repairing a new pair before the buckle stips?
Thanks