Yet another reasone MC is better than BU

[richardsoncd]

I have been working some weekends at a watersports camp in North Georgia. Against my suggestions (very strong on times) they switched from having MC Prostar's to Malibu Wakesetter's. The main reason for switching models was the need for wakeboard boats over ski boats, the reason for switching manufacturer's was the falling out with JOA Marine (MC switched dealers) and a very good salesman at the BU dealer sweet talked the purchasing director. We buy 10 boats a year and one of each price catagory.
So here is the meat and potatoes. I was there in the spring when they took delivery of the boats, looked good, all the bells and whistles, etc. Last weekend I went up for the first time in 3 months, the ballast was broke on one, they don't turn to the right while towing someone, the power wedge is broken on another, some airvents have fallen off, the skins fades (covered when not in use), seat frames (rear storage) have weakened & can't support weight, engines sound horrible, window frames have warped. In general cheap boats. If the MC dealer in Georgia would put up any sort of fight they could probably get them in some X-Series, the biggest problem is BU is getting a huge market share up there and it is because of the camp....if any of you know the Georgia dealer, get him to call or email me.....cause those wakesetters may look pretty, but they suck.

The End.

[Diesel]

I have been working some weekends at a watersports camp in North Georgia. Against my suggestions (very strong on times) they switched from having MC Prostar's to Malibu Wakesetter's. The main reason for switching models was the need for wakeboard boats over ski boats, the reason for switching manufacturer's was the falling out with JOA Marine (MC switched dealers) and a very good salesman at the BU dealer sweet talked the purchasing director. We buy 10 boats a year and one of each price catagory.
So here is the meat and potatoes. I was there in the spring when they took delivery of the boats, looked good, all the bells and whistles, etc. Last weekend I went up for the first time in 3 months, the ballast was broke on one, they don't turn to the right while towing someone, the power wedge is broken on another, some airvents have fallen off, the skins fades (covered when not in use), seat frames (rear storage) have weakened & can't support weight, engines sound horrible, window frames have warped. In general cheap boats. If the MC dealer in Georgia would put up any sort of fight they could probably get them in some X-Series, the biggest problem is BU is getting a huge market share up there and it is because of the camp....if any of you know the Georgia dealer, get him to call or email me.....cause those wakesetters may look pretty, but they suck.

The End.

Someone's just mixed up a fresh batch of the Kool-aide...............who will be the first to drink the sweet nectar??

[ntidsl]

sounds like someone isn't taking care of their boats...Boats don't just fall apart...they are abused, especially at camps...In fall of 05 I saw a 2005 197 where all the seams were ripped, the sim platform was hanging off the back and the whole thing smeeled like mildew...it was heart breakin...I've also seen a 1985 bayliner with 1400 hours that looked like it was brand new from the showroom...no fading, no rips, no scratches in the gel coat...

[bigmac]

I have been working some weekends at a watersports camp in North Georgia. Against my suggestions (very strong on times) they switched from having MC Prostar's to Malibu Wakesetter's. The main reason for switching models was the need for wakeboard boats over ski boats, the reason for switching manufacturer's was the falling out with JOA Marine (MC switched dealers) and a very good salesman at the BU dealer sweet talked the purchasing director. We buy 10 boats a year and one of each price catagory.
So here is the meat and potatoes. I was there in the spring when they took delivery of the boats, looked good, all the bells and whistles, etc. Last weekend I went up for the first time in 3 months, the ballast was broke on one, they don't turn to the right while towing someone, the power wedge is broken on another, some airvents have fallen off, the skins fades (covered when not in use), seat frames (rear storage) have weakened & can't support weight, engines sound horrible, window frames have warped. In general cheap boats. If the MC dealer in Georgia would put up any sort of fight they could probably get them in some X-Series, the biggest problem is BU is getting a huge market share up there and it is because of the camp....if any of you know the Georgia dealer, get him to call or email me.....cause those wakesetters may look pretty, but they suck.

The End.

IMHO, an example of what I have spouted off before - MasterCraft is being out-marketed by Malibu.

[BrianM]

engines sound horrible,.

Mastercraft and Malibu both use Indmar. Basicly the same engines with different names. Sounds like poor maintenance to me.

[richardsoncd]

Mastercraft and Malibu both use Indmar. Basicly the same engines with different names. Sounds like poor maintenance to me.

The boats are less than 5 months old....what maintenance, the oil is changed half way through; but I didn't think of that, but they don't sound right....and again it is a majority of the boats. They are on a maintenance program through the BU dealer.

[richardsoncd]

sounds like someone isn't taking care of their boats...Boats don't just fall apart...they are abused, especially at camps...In fall of 05 I saw a 2005 197 where all the seams were ripped, the sim platform was hanging off the back and the whole thing smeeled like mildew...it was heart breakin...I've also seen a 1985 bayliner with 1400 hours that looked like it was brand new from the showroom...no fading, no rips, no scratches in the gel coat...

I don't disagree totally, but the boats are actually cared for better than you would think, they are wiped down daily, covered at night, things like the GLUE holding the vents on isn't poor maintenance and seat frames failing...it's not from people stepping on them, there is a step installed in the rear when entering from the platform. Plus, every boat they have have issue with turning right....big issues, on everyone of them.

I might add, that we never had these issues with the prostars...that is the point of the thread. There were some issues with the seats, but that is from having tons of kids/adults jumping in and out constantly

[BrianM]

The boats are less than 5 months old....what maintenance, the oil is changed half way through; but I didn't think of that, but they don't sound right....and again it is a majority of the boats. They are on a maintenance program through the BU dealer.
Maybe I shouldn't have said maintenance but hard use. You know ridden hard and put away wet.

But then again maybe it is just that they are a POS Malibu.:rolleyes:

Pass the Kool-aide! 8p Oh Yeah!

[richardsoncd]

No doubt....I guess I am just upset they switched from the ProStars, they don't even have one slalom boat anymore. They have one that is an inboard wakeboard boat, but it's still not the same.

[TMC]

I have been working some weekends at a watersports camp in North Georgia. Against my suggestions (very strong on times) they switched from having MC Prostar's to Malibu Wakesetter's. The main reason for switching models was the need for wakeboard boats over ski boats, the reason for switching manufacturer's was the falling out with JOA Marine (MC switched dealers) and a very good salesman at the BU dealer sweet talked the purchasing director. We buy 10 boats a year and one of each price catagory.
So here is the meat and potatoes. I was there in the spring when they took delivery of the boats, looked good, all the bells and whistles, etc. Last weekend I went up for the first time in 3 months, the ballast was broke on one, they don't turn to the right while towing someone, the power wedge is broken on another, some airvents have fallen off, the skins fades (covered when not in use), seat frames (rear storage) have weakened & can't support weight, engines sound horrible, window frames have warped. In general cheap boats. If the MC dealer in Georgia would put up any sort of fight they could probably get them in some X-Series, the biggest problem is BU is getting a huge market share up there and it is because of the camp....if any of you know the Georgia dealer, get him to call or email me.....cause those wakesetters may look pretty, but they suck.

The End.

I will make no comment on the Malibu's - we work hard to remain amicable with all of our competitors. But to answer your question, the dealer who took over the JOA territory is:

WaterSports Central
5815 Holiday Road
Buford, GA,30518

http://www.watersportscentral.com/

They are an incredible dealer and would not mind talking to you about this I am sure.

[TMCNo1]

Aren't we glad, none of us will be buying one of these Quality boats used!

[Archimedes]

I'm having trouble not replying to this thread given the crap condition my X-1 was in upon delivery. Heading in today to order more parts to replace items that were damaged prior to delivery and still waiting on Taylor Made to maybe, someday return my calls about the windshield frame I need to replace. Those four sheet metal screws I have plugging the holes my dealer drilled sure do look purtey on my brand new boat.

[BrianM]

Those four sheet metal screws I have plugging the holes my dealer drilled sure do look purtey on my brand new boat.

This is not an MC issue but rather a bad dealer service tech issue.

[Archimedes]

This is not an MC issue but rather a bad dealer service tech issue.

I agree, but as far as I'm concerned a company's dealers are an extension of that company, and it's up to the company to ensure that it's dealers are competent, responsive to their customers, support their product, etc. Aside from Eric and Mike on this board, I'm shocked by what I've experienced so far with the MC dealer network. Gonna try again today though. I'm gonna put on the nice voice and patient attitude and see if my parts guy can help me replace my scuffed vent covers today. I'm just hoping he doesn't tell me 'they weren't an option on the X-1' like he did with the board racks.

[rodltg2]

all boat manufacturers will have their issues . my mc had plenty and my malibu has only had one minor issue although still not acceptable in my eyes for a new boat. my bu is 1 year old with 150 hours and is pretty much flawless accept for the scrathces i put on there. mc make's a great boat and it shows by the pride of the boat owners on this board. but its in poor taste to put down the other brands.

[Diesel]

This is not an MC issue but rather a bad dealer service tech issue.

If there is one reoccurring theme on this board I would have to say this is it.

MC wake up and smell the roses.........many dealers are trashing your very expensive and hard earned reputation. It might not have been a problem in the past but the information super highway is uniting consumers accross the country and a pattern is developing. Remember "Held to higher standards".....................;)

[rodltg2]

i think the problem is that in certain areas and i know in mine, the service center is not capable of handling the amount of customers that buy the boats from them. thats where a good dealer begins to fail.

[east tx skier]

mc make's a great boat and it shows by the pride of the boat owners on this board. but its in poor taste to put down the other brands.

I couldn't agree with you more, Rod.

[richardsoncd]

Originally Posted by rodltg2
mc make's a great boat and it shows by the pride of the boat owners on this board. but its in poor taste to put down the other brands.

I couldn't agree with you more, Rod.


Wow, that got some folks fired up....maybe I'll suggest they get 8 restored S&S's.....:D I am making factual statements on personal observations on these Malibu's...just as some have done about there X-Series, therefore I don't feel they are in bad taste. This is also a direct comparison to seasonal problems between the prostars we had and these wakesetters. If I was talking trash without any basis on pure brand loyalty than you would have a point. I don't see how this is tasteless, but if you think so then that was not my intent and I apologize. In my opinion there have been far more tasteless threads on here.
If any of you still think I am tasteless and want to further discuss this, you know where my P.M. is, I guess from now on the only thing that will be posted is how much beer I drink, and how many amps are running to my subwoofer. You go and search for those individuals bashing there MC's due to problems, I use these Malibu's and did the same thing they did.....write a thread about the dissappoint of the product. My bad, I'll keep it to myself next time.

[east tx skier]

If any of you still think I am tasteless and want to further discuss this, you know where my P.M. is, I guess from now on the only thing that will be posted is how much beer I drink, and how many amps are running to my subwoofer. You go and search for those individuals bashing there MC's due to problems, I use these Malibu's and did the same thing they did.....write a thread about the dissappoint of the product. My bad, I'll keep it to myself next time.


My concuring with Rod's statement using the word "tasteless" was not directed at anyone in particular and stems more from my seeing other brands bashed on this board all too often. Rod's post spoke to such a scenario generally as well.

It is my opinion that general brand bashing reflects on all of us negatively. I guess I've just grown weary of it over time. I have not pointed fingers. Unlike most, this thread doesn't so much resemble all of the others that have caused me to share Rod's opinion on the subject contentwise, although the title might be another story.

The last thing I want is for my agreeing with a general statement about brand bashing misconstrued or misinterpreted as a personal attack. Such was not my intent.

[Archimedes]

And just for the record, I'm not bashing my Mastercraft. I love it and I'm a dedicated MC owner, always will be. Just venting a bit.

Okay you guys can go back to arguing. :D

[east tx skier]

And just for the record, I'm not bashing my Mastercraft. I love it and I'm a dedicated MC owner, always will be. Just venting a bit.

Okay you guys can go back to arguing. :D

Oh you know you were. ;) Some large men will be with you shortly.

I'm not fighting with anyone. I'll just chalk it up to the internet being a less than perfect communication tool. Plus, I know he wasn't directing that subwoofer comment at me with my OEM 13 year old speakers. 8p

[michael freeman]

If there is one reoccurring theme on this board I would have to say this is it.

MC wake up and smell the roses.........many dealers are trashing your very expensive and hard earned reputation. It might not have been a problem in the past but the information super highway is uniting consumers accross the country and a pattern is developing. Remember "Held to higher standards".....................;)

I agree, the Dealer is the POC of all things, and if you have a bad dealer or a service department issue it leaves a bad taste in your mouth. I believe Cobalt Boats claim to fame comes from the way they set up their dealers, and if the dealers screw their customers the factory steps in and corrects the dealer. I also believe Cobalt pays the dealer 100% for repairs (i.e., dealer makes full profit on their work).

[skisix@38]

Well Richard, everyone has their story to tell and all we can do is listen, or read in this case. So, let me tell you my story. My Bu, an 03 RLXi, has 250 hrs on it and is cared for just the way you claim your boats are cared for- no more no less, and my boat had to have the ECM re-flashed, that and a whole bunch of gas poured into it because it gets used and keeps getting used and by gosh! It is still working, I can sit in the seats and turn right and everything.

It all comes down to how they are actually cared for. The MC's are good boats and so are the competitions.

[richardsoncd]

Well Richard, everyone has their story to tell and all we can do is listen, or read in this case. So, let me tell you my story. My Bu, an 03 RLXi, has 250 hrs on it and is cared for just the way you claim your boats are cared for- no more no less, and my boat had to have the ECM re-flashed, that and a whole bunch of gas poured into it because it gets used and keeps getting used and by gosh! It is still working, I can sit in the seats and turn right and everything.

It all comes down to how they are actually cared for. The MC's are good boats and so are the competitions.


True....I have a '78 S&S, I am the third owner and it runs great. Maybe I should have titled the thread something else, but those are the facts....and that is that. I honestly didn't mean to offend any one, especially any BU owner's on this site. Again read the thread SkiSix, they are not MY boats & they are maintained by the dealer, and I am really glad your boat runs great...these don't, the old Prostars (for 5 years) made it through the summers, that was my point. If these were X-Series boats having the same problems, I would have said the same thing about them. Obviously from your sarcastic reply you got your feelings hurt by this (which is kind of amazing), I can't help you there buddy, but again...that wasn't my desire.

[skisix@38]

No feelings hurt man! Just telling you my story, just like you were telling all the rest of us your story.

[rodltg2]

the problem with the service side is that the dealer will sell and sell more boats making a bunch of new boat owners every year, yet the service center stays the same. every year its going to get worse. i think there should be some independent service centers that are able to do warranty work as well.

[MCsJCPs]

just curious richardsoncd, which ski camp in north georgia, if it's o.k. to ask.

[6ballsisall]

Personal opinion and first hand experience w/ team boats/club boats etc.... is everyone can "say" they are well cared for but the fact of the matter is that they aren't........VERY RARELY will the club or group care for their boats like we do. Why?? They know they'll only have them a season or two (usually) so doing all the little things we as owners of boats do just don't happen. Even the seemingly little things clubs do to boats really add up........
I'd like to think MC's are a better product, and I really think in some ways they are. I admittingly bash Bu' on here, but 99.9% it's in good fun and made for ribbin' to the bu' owners who hang out here. I do like the MC"s better but will openly admit other than the fear of being killed by people on this site, I could be swayed into an LXI........:D

I don't discount your original post Richard but I question how much better condition a MC would be in at this point had it gone thru the exact same rigors as the bu's have been this year.

[bradamerry]

I agree, but as far as I'm concerned a company's dealers are an extension of that company


I agree with this 100%... i got screwed by an MC dealer on the 205 purchase, I'm buying a new boat, but not a MC. I took the word of someone I shouldn't have and it cost me big time.

[Diesel]

I agree with this 100%... i got screwed by an MC dealer on the 205 purchase, I'm buying a new boat, but not a MC. I took the word of someone I shouldn't have and it cost me big time.

Did I miss something?? :confused:

[east tx skier]

I do like the MC"s better but will openly admit other than the fear of being killed by people on this site, I could be swayed into an LXI........:D

Well you have had your current boat for quite a while by your standards. :rolleyes:

Old ski 'em and flee 'em Jrandol! 8p

[6ballsisall]

Well you have had your current boat for quite a while by your standards. :rolleyes:

Old ski 'em and flee 'em Jrandol! 8p


HEHEHE!!! I like it! Think I'll add that to my signature....:D

[PendO]

the problem with the service side is that the dealer will sell and sell more boats making a bunch of new boat owners every year, yet the service center stays the same. every year its going to get worse. i think there should be some independent service centers that are able to do warranty work as well.

yup ................................................