Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

[Dkrager]

I purchased a new Tahoe vista elite 22' (2008 model) this spring. I noticed there is a bow to the rear deck. About a 1/2" deflection in the middle. I took it by the dealer and he could tell by looking. So we have sent pics to the factory and I'm waiting to hear a resolution. (Still under warranty)

I only have a 75 hp 4 stroke EFI on the boat, it is rated for a 125.

I only trailer the boat about 1/4 mile to the lake so it's not from trailering either.

Notice first pic, you have to force the rear door to close and there is a big gap at the bottom. When I first brought it home that door had the same clearances at top and bottom.

 

[Dkrager]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

I also used a string to prove that I didn't use a warped 2x4.

 

[lncoop]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Yeah, that looks like a problem. Hopefully warranty will take care of it without too much jumping up and down required.

 

[EGlideRider]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

My experience with most pontoon boats is that the quality control is nothing like the automotive industry. I've long ago learned to live with boat imperfections that I would never accept with my vehicles.


Hopefully, the dealer repairs both issues, but if not, you still have a great boat.

 

[robert graham]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Don't guess the weight of the motor caused it to sag down like that? Maybe they could run a section of aluminum channel under the deck and bolted through to brace it up? Good luck and glad it's under warranty.

 

[lncoop]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

May have just warped, but whatever the cause they need to replace the deck. They won't like it, but that's unacceptable and is what warranties are for.

 

[Dkrager]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

May have just warped, but whatever the cause they need to replace the deck. They won't like it, but that's unacceptable and is what warranties are for.

Exactly! I would expect to have something like this happen after say 10 years of usage, not one summer.

Hopefully they will say bring it in this winter and replace and beef up the rear crossmembers.

I'll keep you posted. No resistance from the dealer end of it. So I think at least they are on my side. They were sending pics to the factory today.

 

[EricJRW]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

It would not bug me so much if it did mess up the way the doors work. That is just wrong. What's it look like under the boat? Maybe something is missing, came loose, or did not get bolted together right at the factory.

Hopefully that warranty will get it all sorted out.

 

[Dkrager]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

It would not bug me so much if it did mess up the way the doors work. That is just wrong. What's it look like under the boat? Maybe something is missing, came loose, or did not get bolted together right at the factory.

Hopefully that warranty will get it all sorted out.

I've checked everything out on the underside. I just needs a second larger channel across the back instead of just one. THere are more cross members in the rear where the pod bolts on, but the very rear one is taking most of the weight of the motor, and it is stronger that the rest of them. Needs to be doubled up maybe.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

I'm sure they are very aware of this problem and would be really suprised if you were the first to call them on it.

Looks like they used way to thin of a channel at the back, if this happened after a year it will only get worse over time so follow this through and make sure it is fixxed and they don't just throw a band aid on it to get you out of warranty.

 

[lakegeorge]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Do you use a motor to trailer frame support when you trailer? if not you should.

 

[lncoop]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

i'm sure they are very aware of this problem and would be really suprised if you were the first to call them on it.

Looks like they used way to thin of a channel at the back, if this happened after a year it will only get worse over time so follow this through and make sure it is fixxed and they don't just throw a band aid on it to get you out of warranty.

amen

 

[lncoop]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Do you use a motor to trailer frame support when you trailer? if not you should.

Think you mean transom saver, which you can tell he uses by looking at the pics, but that's really not relevant. The issue is the result of a manufacturing defect and needs to be addressed properly. I have a feeling it will be.

 

[Dkrager]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Talked with dealer today just to make sure the pictures were what they needed. Dealer said pics where great at showing the situation, and they forwarded them on to the factory. Should hear something back first part of next week.

 

[Dkrager]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

So it's been a while, I keep calling dealer weekly to find out status. They still say they haven't heard anything.

So how long should I give them before I start jumping up and down screaming?????!!!!!!

 

[robert graham]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Maybe they think if they ignore you long enough, you'll just go away...might be time to start screaming!

 

[EricJRW]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Seems two weeks is about 1 week too many. I'd put on your jumping shoes.

 

[lncoop]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

I agree that it's probably time for a follow-up, but I don't think jumping up and down and screaming is the best approach. In these types of situations I've always had better luck with the TR approach (speak softly and carry a big stick). I usually find it much more effective to convey the fact that I'm not messing around without shouting.

 

[EricJRW]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Yes, Incoop makes a good point, though I do think the polite inquiries should have started a week ago. At this point I'd at least want to know who the contact is at the manufacturer and find out exactly when you should expect to hear something. Without an expectation of when, it's too early for jumping and screaming...

Questions:

1) Are you still using the boat? If so, that's good.

2) When does the warranty expire? If it's anywhere near, I would consider at least a registered letter to the dealer and manufacturer to lock in a pre-warranty expiration date.

Keep us posted.

Eric

 

[Dkrager]

Re: Problem: Rear deck deflection around motor pod.

Yes, Incoop makes a good point, though I do think the polite inquiries should have started a week ago. At this point I'd at least want to know who the contact is at the manufacturer and find out exactly when you should expect to hear something. Without an expectation of when, it's too early for jumping and screaming...

Questions:

1) Are you still using the boat? If so, that's good.

2) When does the warranty expire? If it's anywhere near, I would consider at least a registered letter to the dealer and manufacturer to lock in a pre-warranty expiration date.

Keep us posted.

Eric

1. Yes still using boat (well when I have time)
2. Warranty good til May 2011

Yes I have called a few times since I last posted. I think last time I called was Friday the 10th. So that's why I was thinking about it again.