Had some work done to the boat !

[Chaparralboater]

1991 Chaparral 1800sl 3.0 mer. Well I have been struggling with a bellows leak and a smell of gas since I bought my boat. I bought the bellows kit, and the hinge pin tool. I can work on cars so I decided to tackle the job my self. As this being my first boat I knew I would have to take things slow and double check. Keep in mind I have ADHD and ADD.... So I removed and replaced the bellows. I went to put the drive back on WITHOUT aligning the bearing. The drive got stuck about an inch from seating. I couldn't pull it back out or push more forward. I got frustrated and gave the boat to Boats Unlimited in Wilmington NC. Dropped it off and said fix it for me please. Great guy named larry explained everything to me after he looked it over. He explained what was going on and what needs to be done to get it running great. So.. he aligned the gimbal bearing, put new seals and O-rings in, greased everything, said I needed a whole new shift cable as mine was frayed ( which would explain my crazy feeling gear shifter) put all new wires going to the battery as mine were rusted and rebuilt my carb with a new kit. The smell of gas was from the carb being trash and leaking internally and externally. All said and done $ 657.75...Pretty good AND he talked me threw everything and gave me options. I respect machanics like this very much. Anyone down in the wilmington NC area stop by this guy if you need anything. Thanks guys for the previous advice and help on this issue

 

[airdvr1227]

Re: Had some work done to the boat !

Marine mechanics take alot of abuse. Always nice when you find one that's fair and honest. SOunds like he has gained a new customer.

 

[egclassic]

Re: Had some work done to the boat !

Marine mechanics take alot of abuse. Always nice when you find one that's fair and honest. SOunds like he has gained a new customer.

Some for good reason!
I wish I could find a "good" one where I live. I think its a shot in the dark when you take your boat to any mechanic, atleast the first time. I don't mind spending the money as long as they do good work and are honest. Sounds like you got a great deal!

 

[Chaparralboater]

Re: Had some work done to the boat !

were the inner coastal waterways are and the ocean, machanics are easier to find than CVS or gas stations. I was attracted to this place because they were selling Brand new Chaparrals and other high end boats outside. Big boy's at that too ! Gosh must be nice..I started working on my cars my self because of the high cost and un-honest quotes and advice from the dealers.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Had some work done to the boat !

Sounds like a good mechanic and very fair priced!