LEWMAR bow thruster failure

[SLyle01]

Nobody seems to know what to do about this one: while docking normally in our 2019 RT27 O/B, using bow thruster to stbd., the thruster motor started spinning extremely fast. Apparently, the inner-gear in the bow thruster FELL OUT (apparently after the Hub Ass'y bottom-cap suddenly departed). Hauled her out and found Prop and shear-pin intact but lower cap and gears missing.
Lewmar has 3 year 'parts-only warranty' but hasn't responded to our claim for replacement gear-leg 'hub assembly' in over a month. Neither the RT factory or Lewmar is communicating with us at all. It's only ~$200 part, so should be no question for Lewmar, but Labor will be costly (and not covered) This shouldn't happen in a 1-year old boat.
Anyone experienced something similar?

 

[Ralf H]

Hello Steve!

Sorry that this has been such a hassle, but I am checking into this to see what the holdup is. On a side note, we have been getting notifications from a lot of vendors that they are severely backlogged with parts orders and have a large amount of back orders they are waiting to fill. I understand that this can be frustrating and apologize, but also please ask for your understanding and that we thank you for your patience thus far. I will reach out as soon as I have an update.

Thank you!

Ralf

 

[SLyle01]

Ralf,
Thanks for the prompt response. However, your help may be moot at this point: I found another Lewmar part source and just paid for it. I had the part in hand in 7 DAYS. I'll just pay for everything else myself (haulout, blocking/spot-rent for 2 months, Tech. inspection, labor for parts removal/installation and relaunch). I need to get her back in the water without any further delay (rather than lose the entire season waiting on a fairly minor warranty claim).

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

The reason for manufacturing backlogs, in a large number of cases, has to do with COVID related manufacturing and supply issues. Don’t know if that’s the case here but if so it can create frustrations for everyone.

Jim

 

[Ralf H]

Hi Steve,

Thank you for your reply and I am very sorry that this has happened. I would like to discuss this a bit more off line with you. Please p.m. me with your preferred contact method and I will reach out to you.

As for the supply issues, I do thank all who are having to endure this for the time being. It has not been easy for us either, yet we do appreciate everyone's patience.

Thank you!

Ralf

 

[Newtugowner2016]

I experienced the same issue this spring on my 2017 R23. I thought for sure it was the shear pin but when I pulled the motor the shear pin was intact. I had a diver come out to inspect the thruster tunnel and prop and everything looked ok but the prop shaft seemed loose/sloppy....so I assume the issue is that the gear assy is shot. I tried to order the part directly through Lewmar but they wouldn’t place an order direct-to-consumer and they let me know it was not covered by warranty...I ultimately purchased the gear assy through an online dealer. It was on back order due to Lewmar’s mfg delays so I just received the part 2 weeks ago and planning to have the work done this week. I used the boat without the thruster this summer and it was fine but looking forward to having it back and operational! I’m surprised how fragile the gear assy is and it’s disappointing it’s not backed by a more robust warranty.

Brent


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