Factory Tugs

[Bosn Mate]

I have read on the forum that tugs are traded in to the factory and this is a good option to consider when buying a previously owned tug.

What are the advantages of buying a tug turned in to the factory and who do I contact regarding this option?

Thanks much!

Mike

 

[BradOwens]

We bought our used R29 from the factory, and had a great experience. Ranger Tugs factory support is always outstanding, but when you buy from them they have the ability to check the boat and ensure everything is up to par. They also offered us two days of training on the systems and handling. I don't know if they always do that, but I imagine they do.

 

[Red Raven]

We bought our tug used from the factory. The advantages were as follows:

1) Factory options. As part of the deal we were able to have several factory options and a few customizations added to the boat and trailer. While a dealer could do this I felt good about knowing it was all done by the factory.

2) Warranty. The boat was only 6 mos. old so the factory warranty was still in effect and was honored. While they would likely honor the remaining warranty whether you bought from the factory or not It helps to have the relationship established. We were treated the same as if we had bought new.

3) Factory delivery experience. As part the package the factory provided the factory delivery experience. This included delivery of the boat to our marina and two days of training and moorage.

4) Factory knowledge, experience and customer support. Andrew and Kenny are fantastic to work with. They answered many many questions both pre and post purchase. They were able to suggest options to best fit our needs and answer our newbie questions as they arose the first summer. In our case they even did a "fit" test of a boat in our garage prior to purchase as no cost!

Contact Andrew Custis at Ranger Tugs to see what they have available.

 

[Rockyman]

Our R-27 was a factory trade in and two year olds. The price we paid was the same or better than similar models advertised elsewhere. The boat had been kept clean and in "as new" condition in the yard and it looked just like all of the new boat parked next to it. They gave me a 90 day warranty and have exceeded that time with minor issues at no charge. Kenny delivered the boat to our dock and spent half a day going over systems and both at the dock and out on the water -- also at no charge. The factory guys continue to treat me as though I bought a new boat and have been far more supportive than other manufacturers and dealers I have dealt with in the past.

From my perspective, buying a factory trade in was the best value out there for at least three good reasons.
1) no new boat "bugs". 2) full factory support. 3) great price.

 

[Bosn Mate]

Thanks to all for the valuable info.

Mike