Tom D'Amico at Mid-State Marine accepted my boat engine from my 1998 Chris Craft 220 Sport Deck on September 3rd, 2013. He was to install engine in boat during the winter off-season. I asked him to provide an estimate, so I could provide my insurance company. Tom was given all original parts, plus a list of Volvo replacement parts previous recommended.
Mid-State picked up boat sometime that Fall from Tony at Sierra Boats, whom was re-doing errors with the boat transom repairs. Tom needed constant reminders to pick up boat from Sierra and myself (phone log 9/30/13 & 10/26//13). I would pick up my completed boat with engine in late April or early May of 2014.
I called April 21, 23, and 29th, plus emailed to arrange final delivery. On May 1st, Tom emailed: Mark,
I was sick most of the winter with the flu, pnenomia, etc. We also talked about a deposit that was going to be sent to start the repair. I have not received that as of today. I have a new tech that will be starting in a couple weeks. This job after the deposit is received is going to be a labor time involved + part's needed as discussed when you dropped the part's off. I can give a very rough estimate but it is also very hard since we did not remove the engine or drive & all the part's are in boxes. Repairs will have to be done as they arise when installation is started. (end)
I responded verbally and emailed clarification:
Tom,
Thank you for taking my call this morning, after I received your email. I know you are busy with spring preparations. I am sorry you were under the weather for months.
This is to further clarify my conversation with you today and back last fall. Just do it. If you need a reasonable deposit for parts (not $1,000), I will give you my charge card, even though you have a mechanic's lien ability and a exceptional boat with trailer. I expected to have my boat weeks ago, though I understand we all had a long winter. I do not wish to wait in the back of the line, when you have not communicated for almost six (6) months. I wish only to move forward immediately, so not to loose more time on my boat.
I have previously obtained estimates from other boat dealers to install the engine and outdrive units, though you were recommended by Volvo and close to Sierra Boats if any hidden concern came to light. You stated that having the parts last fall would help you determine parts needed to complete installation over the winter. The estimate I previously requested was to help with my insurance reimbursement and possible differences between previous Racine Volvo dealer pricing - whom now closed and you. I also understood there maybe some items lost between original techs removal, though per our review together most of the parts were there. It was also my understanding that I would have to reopen my claim with insurance for this very late subsequent expense. Either way - just do it now - immediately.
It was recommended by Volvo to replace all rubber. All small parts were boat aft lower storage and a clear plastic bag. Please save all parts, as I will keep for now.
I will copy my previous email to you from last August 9th, that detailed expected issues reviewed.
Parts per Main Marine:
This is the total list for the parts that we would need:
1. Transome Seal Kit - $126.01
2. Bellows - $75.51
3. Exhaust Bellows - $41.63
4. Hose - $18.96
5. Water Pump - $45.80
6. Gasket - $6.96
7. Water Pump Belt - $24.96
8. Distributor Cap - $28.30
9. Rotor - $14.96
10. Power Steering Belt - $10.96
11. Alternator Belt - $33.30
Total Parts- $427.35
It would be great to pick up boat on Mother's Day (11th) on our way back from Minneapolis.
Please call me if I need to do anything to help. (end).
I have called numerous times after, been promised from Linda at Mid-State that I would have my boat completed by the weekend only to see nothing done.
I am puzzled and heartbroken as to why Tom D'Amico would wish to treat a customer this way. I invested over $6,000 into repairs in 2013 and Mid-State has only abused their reasonable duty to perform and install the engine.
Boat dealers should have the same laws over-seeing their industry, as car mechanics in Wisconsin.
Shame on Tom D'Amico and his Mid-State Marine for withholding reasonable duty to perform. read more
