suzuki motor warranty

[schoolisout]

My dad, who is in his early 80's, bought a new Odyssey Pontoon boat with a Suzuki DF140 motor Sept 2006. The motor has a three year warranty. When we put the boat in the water in May 2008, the motor did not work properly. It cranked, but did not run for long, and would not fire again. We had a friend tow the boat to a ramp and took it to the dealer where it was purchased. We have called repeated about the boat, and we have been unsuccessful having the boat repaired. We were told the motor needs a new powerhead. We called Suzuki's service hotline, and we were told Suzuki does not have a powerhead for this motor, and it will not be available until the end of July. This boat (and motor) have only been used a few times, and now we are losing most of the summer on the lake. Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas that might help us get this boat in the water sooner?

 

[schoolisout]

Re: suzuki motor warranty

It seems that this powerhead problem is fairly common for Suzuki engines, seemingly due to ethanol in the fuel, which most gas contains. The powerheads can also take months to replace, even under warranty. The Suzuki's service department in CA has also proved to be unresponsive and very slow. If you're thinking of buying a Suzuki outboard, you may want to check out the Better Business Bureau rating (F), and Consumer Reports.

 

[BruceAML]

Re: suzuki motor warranty

I think it is time to repower with another brand. When the Suzuki is fixed you can sell it.