SOS

Are there any recalls for the Boston Whaler 18-foot Dauntless? We have a 2000 model that has a serious design defect. The gas fill cap is a combination fill and vent. I saw gas dripping out of the fill cap when the boat was at the dock. Thinking the cap wasn't shut properly, I released it and a full column of gasoline came shooting out of the fill pipe.

This fitting design actually pressurizes the fuel tank and forces gasoline out of the fill pipe and it flows into the bilge. The bilge pump motor was running and my first reaction was to pull the electrical connector apart. Fortunately, I didn't because that would have created a spark and my wife or I wouldn't be around to complain about it.

J. McK., Georgetown, SC

This clearly is a serious problem that could result in fires, explosions and personal injury. BoatUS. has received two similar complaints involving combination fuel fill and vent fittings. In both cases, the fittings were manufactured by Perko. In both cases the boatbuilders, Boston Whaler and Baha Cruisers/FRP Industries, replaced the fill fitting. We reported these complaints to the U.S. Coast Guard for recall action. Owners of boats equipped with these fittings should inspect them for signs of leaks. For more information and assistance, especially if you have had similar experiences, contact your boat builder, the BoatUS. Consumer Protection Bureau (703-461-2856 or ConsumerProtection@BoatUS.com) and the US. Coast Guard (800-368-5647).

While out in "flat" water when sea trialing my 2000 Fountain 25 Sportfish Cruiser before I bought it, a large boat passed with a fairly substantial wake that my boat hit. I figured this would be no problem, but the electronics box and half-tower almost ended up in the water. The bolts were not tightened and tore wider holes in the deck with the result that we almost lost the whole top in the water. I thought the boat would be fixed before I actually took delivery. But no. I put it in the water on Cape Cod with 2-3 foot seas and I almost lost the top again! I've since found that the boat porpoises in calm seas with no wind. I want you to know about the concerns that I have about my $70,000 purchase.

P. C., Millbury, MA

BoatU.S. contacted Fountain Powerboats on your behalf We understand your boat has been repaired at the factory. In fact, soon after our contact, the company told us the boat would be brought to the factory for repair, with transportation to their factory in Washington, NC, at no charge to you. The company also provided complete details of the proposed repairs and got the boat back to you on time.

When I took delivery of my 2001 Pro-Line 27 Express I noticed it was extremely bow-heavy. It would dip into waves instead of rising over them, allowing 30 to 40 gallons of water to come over the bow and flood the fishing deck. Pro-Line and the dealer made some tests and said the only solution was to add 400 lbs. of ballast in the stern. I rejected this and want a replacement boat instead. My brother-in-law is an attorney and I may go to court.

G.E.K., Miami, FL

After additional negotiations with Pro-Line Boats, we understand that you accepted their offer of an upgrade to a 30-foot model for which you agreed to pay an additional $24,000. You report that the new boat performs perfectly.