Re: 2003 Sylvan "quality"
Hi there. We too had a terrible experience with our new Sylvan; much of it was the dealers fault however. We had so many minor problems that sprouted up each trip it got to the point we were afraid to go out. BTW, we bought a 16 1/2' Adventurer LX DC(top-of-the-line trim level)now replaced by the Excursion (I think). There were several things that can be attributed to lack of QC at the factory though. Aluminum shavings and spent rivets in the hull, screws not tightened, improper electrical connections, foam/glue overspray on the upholstery - just to name a few. To be fair, anything I did complain about was promtly addressed. I was told by a few that buying a new boat is nothing like buying a new car and these things are to be expected. <br />Our outboard was max rated for our hull and after the first season, we noticed a bit of a 'creaking' noise every time I gunned it. I took it to a Smokercraft dealer ( I did not like the dealer we bought it from for a variety of reasons) and they told me they would get permission from Sylvan to work on it and gladly offered to do warranty service on it. Sylvan also was prompt to accept. In a few hours there were 4 reinforcing nuts and bolts installed in the transom via recommendations from Sylvan. I was surprised that each fastener cost over $100 for nut and bolt. The bill was over $600 and no one made a stink about it.<br />I never did talk to Sylvan directly over the past three years until just a week ago. I needed a bit of advice on something and found a e-mail address. In addition to my questions, I gave them some feedback on the minor problems that we have had with the boat and also pointed out a few things that were still wrong with it. For starters, I mentioned that there were some bubbles in the bottom paint - very small and with water in them. When I burst the bubble, bare aluminium would remain. It's only noticable up close and I have seen this on a really old aluminum I used to own that I tried paint - so I really wasn't surprised by it. Suffice is to say, it really wasn't a concern. The biggest surprise I have ever had with this boat was the response I rec'd from this letter. Not only did they advise me on how to address the minor problems myself - like how to remove the glue overspray - they also stated that they would gladly take the boat back at end of season and repaint it - all at their expense. They would also fix the minor problems as well if I haven't already done so. <br />I found this to be amazing. I did not ask for any service and I bluntly stated I wasn't complaining - just offering feedback. Even still, they offered this warranty service.<br />If there was ever a doubt that I would by another Sylvan in the future, this certainly removed it.<br />Majbach
