Posted: July 30 2007 at 21:15 | IP Logged

Just grousing but I am beginning to question the reliability of Doral. Bought a new Monticello in 2005. First season I had to replace the shower sump pump as it wouldn't turn off, the tachometer/hourmeter because it would only work intermittently, and the satellite radio because it would not eject a CD. Also found that the waste tank connection (pump-out hose) was loose and it leaked nasty brown stuff into the bilge. All repaired (except radio still does not receive satellite broadcasts). So I figure, okay, as one expects some problems in a new boat.

Didn't use boat last season due to my wife's illness so it was laid up for 18 months. She is fully recovered so we looked foward to this season. Embarked on a 500nm r/t voyage up Georgian Bay, through the North Channel and Lake Huron to Mackinac Island and St Ignace, MI.  Sooo -  new tach acts wacky several times showing an increase in rpm while the engine is actually slowing down, the fresh water pump for the head doesn't work (yeah, that happens sometimes after a lay-up but I lubed the O rings, etc), the fuel gauge doesn't work - goes past full with a click (faulty sensor or short?), and the hot water hose to the sink in the head compartment springs a leak at the compression connection (mechanic said the angle of the hose to the brass fitting was too severe) Repairs didn't work so we disconnected it, siliconed and wrapped it in water proof tape, and plugged it. Of course it blew so we had no water except for jugs we filled wherever we stopped for fuel. The instrument facia has been removed so many times to fix things that the screws no longer have a purchase (time for Formula 27!). To top it off, we used a quart/litre oil in 37 hours use (Volvo 5.7 GXi DP).

Anyone out there experience similar problems? The nearest Doral dear is about 100 miles away and inland, and Doral hasn't responded to my enquiries. I'm begining to think "bye-bye".

DD

Posted: July 31 2007 at 16:27 | IP Logged

Addendum to above

SECURETE' - Starboard side radar arch handrail pulled out while going forward. This is a two year old boat with a total of 70 hrs. Rail is only SCREWED in, not through bolted. I almost fell in the drink. Suggest you check screws. Most on both sides were loose! I thought Doral's were well made - someone goofed on this one.