*THE HULL TRUTH is the world's largest FREE network for the discussion of Boating & Fishing. Whether you're researching a new boat, or are a seasoned Captain, you'll find The Hull Truth Boating & Fishing Message Forum contains a wealth of information from Boaters and Sportfishermen around the world.
Welcome to the updated THT!
If you are having trouble signing in, please email feedback@thehulltruth.com with your username and we will help you. We thank you for your patience as we help you access the new site!
Random Quote: How much deeper would the ocean be without sponges?
Last summer my old whaler had trouble with the port engine (2001 Optimax 200) and my local mechanic couldn’t fix it (because he wasn’t an authorized Mercury mechanic). He sent it to a local dealer, who just happened to be the same dealer I was talking to about buying a new boat.They fixed it, but the price seemed high -- $2500 (Parts and Labor). They replaced 8 Spark Plugs, installed a Used Air Compressor, and also replaced 3 Fuel Injectors.
I was so shocked by the bill that I dropped the dealer and his line of boats from my buying short list.Before I start telling everyone I know this story (with the dealer’s name), do you think the price was too high? Keep in mind this happened in Massachusetts.
I cant imagine why they didnt replace ALL the spark plugs!! But even if they charge you for a brand new compresser, 8 plugs and 3 injectors list price is only 898.00 for all those. That means they would have charged you for 18 hours labor at $85 an hour and hit you for tax! I would definetly have a confirsation with somebody. Shops like this give us good guys a bad name!!!
__________________
Master Wrench-John S.
Master Certified Mercruiser Technician www.JAWSMarine.net
Two famous sayings a Mechanics always here's:
"I was idling when it broke!"
"I have friends and family coming into town this weekend, how fast can you get it done!"
Had they given you a diagnosis and ballpark estimate before the work was done or did they just do the work without your full knowledge/consent and nail you with the bill afterward?
That price is out-of-whack for the work you've indicated (and used parts to boot).
Yes on the diagnosis and ballpark - she (no comment on female service managers) said $1400 -- which sounded okay. After I got the bill, complained, and quoted her estimate, she said "that was for the parts."
I had nothing in writing and I wanted my boat back, so I paid it. I am quite familar with CC dispute, but I had no grounds.
The sad thing is that I was a hot prospect for their boat, the owner knew it and I was about to drop $160,000 on a new boat before this all happened. Since THT has taught me to buy a boat from someone with good TRUSTWORTHY service, I started looking for a new boat and dealer.
Outrageous. Speak to them and politely imply there will be consequences if they do not reevaluate that bill. Consequences being disputed charges, telling every US Citizen the name of the shop and the story, wearing a sandwich board on their sidewalk, etc..
~4 hours total on this job. Plugs and injectors are not cheap but still.
__________________
...All the wants you waste
All the things you've chased
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around...
J.Hetfield
I would send a copy of the bill to the GM of the dealership and ask him if these charges seem in line and acceptable to him. Tell him you feel it is very high, almost twice the verbal estimate. After all, if he stands behind it, he should have no problem with your posting a PDF of it on the web, along with the dealer name and location.
Give him that opportunity to make it right, and if he doesn't, then post truthful info that will help others decide if they want to do business with him. That's not trashing anybody, it's just giving real info. People can decide for themselves.
Did she kiss ya because she sure as hell f#cked ya!
__________________
...All the wants you waste
All the things you've chased
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around...
J.Hetfield
captsuperfly - 4/10/2008 2:57 PMI would send a copy of the bill to the GM of the dealership and ask him if these charges seem in line and acceptable to him. Tell him you feel it is very high, almost twice the verbal estimate. After all, if he stands behind it, he should have no problem with your posting a PDF of it on the web, along with the dealer name and location.Give him that opportunity to make it right, and if he doesn't, then post truthful info that will help others decide if they want to do business with him. That's not trashing anybody, it's just giving real info. People can decide for themselves.
Was this a rip off?
