[csterner]

So, I try to do all my repairs and maintenance myself because it saves so much money. But a week ago I thought my engine was froze up so I took it to a mechanic that I never used before. I should have taken it to the Merc dealer here in Ocala, but there is only one around and they are 3 weeks out on looking at it. I have only had my boat for about 2 months now and I bought it from the original owner who had it on a lift. I got all the original sales receipts of purchase and everything.

So this new mechanic determined that a terminal connector had corroded and split on the starter solenoid. He tried to charge me $150 to replace the connector. He then proceeded to tell me that I had the wrong engine in the boat. The cover stated 6.2L but they told me it was a 5.7L. After I explained that the 6.2L is an overstroked 5.7L block, they said I was incorrect. They said that the 6.2L is a 454. I laughed and said that my last boat had a 454 and that is a 7.4L not a 6.2L. So after losing that battle, he decided to tell me that the engine was not original(even though I have the original dealer receipts showing matching serial numbers) and that my outdrive was also replaced because the Bravo 3 was way too big for the "5.7L" engine.

By this time I am almost rolling on the ground...I mean, what the heck was he trying to prove? Maybe he was hoping I would want him to replace my whole engine and outdrive or something!

Scary to think that he has probably screwed over a few people though. Why can't people do honest work for honest pay anymore?

[rajjneef]

I wouldn't let him near my boat ever again if I were you. I mean even if he had a momentary case of stupid he could look in his books and see the 6.2 is a small block.

[csterner]

Heck no, he is not getting anywhere near my boat. I wouldn't even let him fix the connector for me!

[Zackattack]

It is sure nice when you do find a good mechanic that you can trust and is well versed. I am with you on doing as much as possible myself with some instruction and a little investigation, but sometimes you just have to have someone with greater knowledgs and experience to get you through something.

Rescently I had a scare in that I thought my rings were bad and maybe had blown a cylinder, found a reputable Merc mech. and for $123.27 went through the engine and did some little adjustments and checked compression and gave her a clean bill of health.

So, just as you feel disgusted with the ignorant mechanics, you equally have respect for the ones you find that are respectable. Too bad they are so hard to find.

[Dredd]

Just wow...