service at mc dealer or private shop?

[kalamalka]

im wondering what others are doing. My local dealer prices are getting crazy. Near 700 for a wintering and they just qouted me 450 for a half inch gel coat crack repair from the cleat. That didnt include the cost of the gel or catalist. Are any of you guys using private marine shops?

[JohnE]

I'd winterize myself. Gel repair is likely being done by an outside contractor, so I bet you will find it cheaper elsewhere.

Other tasks I would want my dealer to perform.

[CantRepeat]

I think a lot of people on here have gone to doing their own maintenance. I have used a non dealer owned boat repair shop for gel work in the past without issue.

[Meeker]

$700 for winterizing!? What does that include...removing engine and keeping in their heated shop? Wow.

[madcityskier]

For glass work check with a body shops that does a lot of Vettes. Not cheap, but usually less than the marina, and often the ones doing the work anyway.
My experience, your results may vary.

[kskonn]

I would say it would depen on the dealer in your area to be honest. I pay 350 if I have my boat winterized, I live in Texas so I usually don't, I just drain the block. if the boat happens to be at their place when it might freeze they drain the block for no charge.

[bjen]

Have only used the local dealer for parts/accesories, but have been told that they are so busy in the service dept here, if the boat was not bought from their dealership, they are not really interested in taking it in for service.
So I would vote DIY or use on of the other guys.

[Ski-me]

If it was a brand new boat or only a few years old, I might be more enclined to take to the dealer for repairs/winterization. In fact, I've been winterizing my 94' at the Bu' dealer for several years but just this year, decided to do it myself. My dealer was pushing $400 with all the fluid changes so I decided to try it all myself. Turned out great (so far.....we'll see next spring if I missed something )

Just depends on your comfort level.

However, your $700 is Canadian dollars too (I assume) so that needs to be considered too when we (down in the US) compare your winterization cost. Also, what's in that price?

[sand2snow22]

Originally Posted by Ski-me

However, your $700 is Canadian dollars too (I assume) so that needs to be considered too when we (down in the US) compare your winterization cost. Also, what's in that price?

What's your point. Currently they're both about equal....

[Ski-me]

Originally Posted by sand2snow22

What's your point. Currently they're both about equal....

Point is:

What's included in that Winterization cost? Engine oil change, transmission oil change, spark plug replacement, spark plug wire replacement, Cap and rotor replacement, impellar replacement, Interior Detail, Exterior Detail, Shrink wrap, Trailer wheel bearing replacement/repacking, De-winterization in the spring, etc.

That makes a difference on the price being reasonable or not.