Hobie Live Well charger recall....

[Lets_Fish]

Was checking out the Hobie forums and came across this:

Attention any consumer who purchased a LiveWell which was shipped by us, since April 1st, 2011.

We have been made aware of a potential hazard related to the recent batch of LiveWell product due to a new type of battery and charger used. We have received reports of charger problems causing melting of the charger and possibly associated wires.

You must discontinue the use of the provided charger.

The suspect 6 volt charger is shown here:
http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/2889/livewellcharger.jpg

SLA Battery Charger Model:CP0615

------------------------------

LiveWell Switch

We have become aware of a problem with the on-off pump switch. These were supplied with a plastic switch shaft that is prone to failure when impacted. This was not an approved change and our vendor is supplying replacement switches of the original quality.

We will be replacing all chargers from this shipment. It appears to be a 3-4 week process for charger production, modification specific to the LiveWell plugs, testing, delivery and shipment by us to dealers. We will also replace all switches at that time.

Contact your dealer to file a warranty claim for these items.

Once again...

DO NOT USE THE CHARGER PROVIDED WITH YOUR RECENT PURCHASE OF OF A LIVEWELL if the aboved described charger was provided.

_________________
Matt Miller
Hobie Cat USA
Source link: http://www.hobiecat.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=26&t=36305

[bus kid]

That is why I never buy the 1st gen of anything new. Good looking out for your fellow man. :cheers1:

[pchen911]

That is why I never buy the 1st gen of anything new.

I agree with you. Let others be the early adapters and test out the product first to make sure they are well built.

However, this batch of Hobie Livewell is not the 1st generation. In fact the 1st generation of the livewell was fine compared to this batch.

This batch is the result of their factory trying to save costs by changing product specs without notifying Hobie first. They do that a lot in factories in China... they send you a sample that meets specs for approval so you will place your order, then delivers something different in the actual shipment... Usually cheaper... To be honest, I feel for Hobie. This situation is very tough for manufacturers.

[Hotrodtuna]

I talked to FL and they said the battery and switch replacement was done without Hobie knowing, they seemed very upset with the whole issue. I bought one but could not take delivery until they fix the recall.

[xpresso2am]

Yup I'm bummed about this recall. I went to pick up the bait tank and was denied. Atleast I got my wheels. I guess I have to wait till they are fixed. :(

[dawson06]

Mine blew up about an hour into my first charge. OEX Oceanside took care of me and reported the issue to Hobie.

Luckily I was in the garage when it failed...

[Lets_Fish]

Have been informed that a few have exploded on an overnight charge while others just after a few hours.

Also the replacements will not be available for a few weeks (3 to 4) according to on dealer.

I'm no electrician, but to me it looks like the issue comes from trying to charge a 6volt 10amp battery through 20-22 gauge wire (on the charger) to a lead wire of 12 gauge (on the battery).

[tagyak]

Mine blew up about an hour into my first charge. OEX Oceanside took care of me and reported the issue to Hobie.

Luckily I was in the garage when it failed...

what part blew up? the charger or the battery?

thanks

[Lets_Fish]

what part blew up? the charger or the battery?

thanks

From what I have heard, it was the charger. They just look CHEEP!

[dawson06]

what part blew up? the charger or the battery?

thanks

The charger. It actually blew the cord that connects to the battery off the charger and melted the end of the AC to DC converter.

[Billy V]

Besides the faulty charger....
I heard that Hobie is also replacing the piece of garbage plastic switch that comes on the New $289.00 Bait Tank. (((Sheesh)))

-Maybe they better try another Provence of China for their outsourcing. Thats strike 4 on their bait tank.
Clogging inlet, junk switch, battery screw up, and now flaming charger.

Don't worry - everything should be here in a couple of months.
-------------------------
Just because they make a good kayak doesn't mean they make a good bait tank. The 5 gallon bucket does a better job and doesn't clog- and runs perfectly in the kelp.
-Lets see a hobie tank do that.:)