USCG now involved in my safety concerns with fuel tank

[DocJoe]

My R23 (2019) fuel tank brackets are not in a correct, or safe, position.

I can reach the aft brackets to loosen and then reposition, but I cannot reach the forward brackets.

Is there an access panel to be able to get to the screws holding the forward nylon fuel tank brackets in place?

Or, if no access panel, then how do I get to these nylon brackets to loosen them so I can properly position them to hold the fuel tank safely in place?

It appears that the fuel tank has shifted position to starboard (more in center of boat and now up against the bullhead), and the port nylon brackets are now pressing into the sides of the fuel tank. This is a very unsafe condition inasmuch as boat movement could rupture the fuel tank ... and then boom!!

The boat only has 58 total operating hours, so this appears to be a design flaw. I have some good ideas for a re-design, but I first have to get to the nylon brackets to loosen them.

I have removed the cushions from the port storage (AKA, The Cave) in the main cabin area that is directly over the fuel tank, and I do see horizontal panels (decking) that are screwed into place, but not sure if I remove those panels that I will gain access to the fuel tank brackets.

I appreciate any and all advice and suggestions.

Thank you, Joe
DocJoe

UPDATE: I spoke to fellow boaters at my marina, and they took a look and strongly suggested I report this to the USCG inasmuch as they may want to initiate a federal recall. I then did contact the USCG, and the USCG folks were concerned about the safely and advised I NOT USE THE BOAT until Ranger Tugs factory has made recommendation for repair or replacement of the nylon brackets. Failing that, the USCG indicated I could initiate a complaint with the appropriate branch of the federal government and start an investigation and possible recall of all RT boats that have this particular means of 'securing' the fuel tank, ie, nylon hold down brackets that are not adequate and allow movement of the fuel tank. I have contacted RT via this forum, but to date no reply from them. Disappointed.

I have pictures, but do not see a way to post pictures to this forum.

Posts: 26
Joined: Fri Nov 18, 2022 5:28 pm
City: Washington
State/Province: NC
Ranger/Cutwater Model: R-23
Vessel Name: Bonus Round
MMSI Number: 338469685

 

[gswearin]

Suggest you call Andrew Custis at RT Kent office 253-839-5213. I don't think they look at the forum every day.

 

[Almanac]

Sounds like your boat is definitely under warranty, and in any case I'd call Ranger Tugs directly.

 

[Just Right]

You need to call directly. Ranger has always been responsive . When I was buying a 7 year old C26 I had a couple of questions about the boat so I called. Andrew answered and probably spent 30 min with me over the phone discussing the boat. Most of the time nowadays you don't get that buying new.

 

[DocJoe]

Ranger Tugs does not extend warranty to anyone other than original buyer. I am second owner.

Ranger Tugs sent me four plastic spacers to correct this situation. Once installed the USCG officials will re-inspect and determine if this correction meets safety standards.

Best,

Joe

 

[bob daily]

I'm confused about this problem!
Is it a warranty item, a safety recall or a technical service bulletin item?
Just wondering. Bob

 

[gregc]

Ranger Tugs does not extend warranty to anyone other than original buyer. I am second owner.

Can confirm. Had a similar "not covered" situation when I purchased my boat -- the solution was to have the seller handle the warranty claim we found during survey before the sale.

 

[dgiles]

I don't understand how warranty follows the owner and not the boat. That makes zero sense and people would be up in arms if it applied to vehicles.

 

[gregc]

I don't understand how warranty follows the owner and not the boat. That makes zero sense and people would be up in arms if it applied to vehicles.

And yet here we are. 🙂