jda44120 wrote:
I have a 2011 Mirage Outback that I've used 2-4 weeks each summer on a lake in NH. This summer the boat started leaking and fills up with water over 12 hours. Although outside the 2 yr warranty, I learned that drive well leaks are caused by a Hobie manufacturing process problem (the Hobie part manager said so on the Hobie user forum) and Hobie would provide some price relief on a replacement hull. When I contacted Hobie's warranty manager (Jerry) he insisted I open a 'warranty claim' through the dealer and provide a photo. I did and he responded saying the picture didn't show a crack and that I'd have to drive the boat to the dealer to verify the problem. I explained it was a 3 hour round trip to the dealer and there was no visible crack. There must be a leak beneath the drive assembly where it attaches to the hull. The dealer would have to place the boat in the water overnight to verify the problem. Still Jerry wouldn't budge. So for the sake of a hull that can't cost Hobie more than $500 (and I would have gladly paid this!), Jerry has alienated a previously loyal and enthusiastic Hobie customer. Too bad because I love the boat when it doesn't leak. Are there any alternatives out there?
That sounds atypical of the drive well issues we have had and discussed in these forums. Those well problems you are quoting were primarily from 2006 or so vintage as well. 2011 hulls have had very little problem with this issue.
If there is no visible crack it should take pedaling pressure to open and leak. Since this happens "over night" is it possible this is a leaky hatch or leaky scupper or other issue? I would suggest doing the soapy water bubble test to determine where there may be a leak.
In any case, we would not issue a replacement hull via warranty without dealer inspection. Cerytainly validation that there is an issue that can not be fixed. They would also take possession of the hull to disable it from further use when we replace it. So somehow or other a dealer has to have the hull in hand.
There are options for repair or replacement, but you still need to be sure what the problem actually is.