Are the factory-only threads working?

[Cutwater28GG]

I'm curious what others think about the locked threads when asking technical questions to the factory?
Are people missing out on timely or alternative advice (some useful, hopefully!) by restricting the threads?

What I'm noticing is that often, a new member posts questions in that area of the forum, and in many cases, they are questions that have been asked/answered previously and might receive a faster response if posted to the broader community.

I was wondering if we should allow anyone to respond but call out the factory response in alternative colors. - like an "official" response

I hate to see posts sitting unanswered in there (because no doubt the factory is busy!).

 

[watson1987]

I've started private conversations with a few folks when I see a question that I think I can help with. So far it has worked, but that means others can't read it going forward.

I appreciate the factory-only section, and I think that the factory has been more active in responding to folks through this new mechanism (thanks FM employees) but I do understand your concerns too.

I assume this would require some custom coding, but a way to have messages cross-post between the different forums to allow factory-only responses and everyone else's responses might be a solution.

Guess we can't have it both ways.

 

[Maggie Anne]

I tend to agree, I sometimes have an answer to a question posted but can't respond becuse it's restricted. I too have sent private messages but as as C28GG mentioned that doesn't benefit the wider community.

 

[AGLyme]

I tried a couple of Factory questions as a new Ranger owner (and first boat). No joy.
In terms of priority, the factory folks have to serve the recent-sale people first, the warranty class second, the out of warranty people third. I bought an 11 yo RT 31cb which I am investing in and bringing back to a “like new” standard - ergo all the questions.
I was hoping the company had enough of an installed base of boats out there by now that selling parts and services would be a profitable enough income stream that I’d be able to buy tons of parts direct from the factory…
but I’m sourcing from 3rd parties instead…and making it up as I go… and the factory & its Dealers miss out on the easy money high Parts & services markup $.