Vacuflush Preventative Maintenance

[km1125]

Source of the post Re the split bellows, I returned it to place of purchase and then had to fill out a request form for warranty coverage. Was informed by retailer Dometec will be sending a replacement free of charge. Initially they stated they never split unless you freeze them or allow something foreign in system. I ensured them none of that had taken place. Suspect manufacturing flaw at seams. Purchased in july 22, in Ontario canada so boat out of water from october to april. Claim sent in may 23.
Hope this helps.

I agree with the "manufacturing flaw" likely being the culprit. Glad you took the time to do the warranty, as it might help improve the product over time.

But I am curious about the "never split unless you freeze them" part and how that might affect seasonal boats that are stored in freezing environments. I've never heard that being an issue, but maybe it might if you were trying to USE it when it was in a freezing environment.

[bud37]

Lets face it , probably just a cheaper made part from who knows where, like many things now......

[Midnightsun]

There is no way their bellows is made in Canada or the USA. They all come from China so it could be hit or miss. I just ordered a spare from Aliexpress. Cannot tell the differance from the original. It will all come down to the material used to fabricate the bellows part. I doubt there are several people making these, probably only 1 manufacturer for the limited quantities needed world wide.

[bud37]

Yup.... "A cat can have kittens in the oven!... but that don't make em biscuits."..... ....

[mjk1040]

WELL, I follow the Don Casey preventive method! Each spring I flush 2 cups of white vinegar down and let it set for awhile, then I flush 2 cups of vegetable oil down and coat the ball seal with the same. Half wat thru the season I'll repeat the process. 8 years no issues to date. Knock on gel coat!