I just bought a used 'cycleops fluid 2' trainer only to find out that I need a special skewer for proper operation.

If the manufacturer will not sell me a skewer, I'm basically screwed from what I can tell. Does anyone know if there is a suitable substitute skewer on the market that will work safely and not damage my bike?

Thanks

You just need a skewer that you don't care if it gets beat up or not. Just go to the lbs and get a metal quick release rear skewer. That's what I did.

And just so you don't have to make 2 trips - take the slotted skewer holder from the left side of the trainer with you just to be sure that the handle on the skewer they have fits in the slot.