Mr. Wizard OMC archived feedback Part 1
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Mr. Wizard OMC Article
Archived Feedback
Part 1
Begins Feb 19, 2001 |
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The response from our readers to Mr. Wizard's What's Next for OMC article and our coverage of the OMC situation has been tremendous. We are storing previous feedback on this page, as well as providing a link to today's feedback.
Mon Feb 19
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Response to R
Hi R
Noboby works for OMC and no human has since 12/21/00.
RBBI comment: Previous message from R said, "By the way
I dont work for OMC."
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Reply to R Subject Hey
No name please.
In response to R -
You do not know what you are talking about. 150 thru 225 need the kits but
the kits only help with things on the injectors and even the kits are not
fully tested. They do not fix the vapor separator problem or the leaking
o-rings. You will hear more on this shortly from the coast guard. I suspect
Bombardier will not be able to deliver a single DFI motor for quite some time
because the Coast Guard is going to need to see proof of a fix. It is about
time profits do not out way safety and many of us would have spoken up sooner
if we knew how much this was being covered up. You probably did not hear
about the vent in lower motor covers that were going to let the runaway fuel
escape. Planning for fuel leaks is real bad engineering. There was also a
program for the EMM that would shut the engine down and the fuel pump when it
went into uncontrolled runaway due to the excess fuel being sucked into the
intake.
I have seen it and you better hope your family is not sitting near the engine
if it goes up. The Coast Guard will now make sure this is no longer covered
up along with a bunch of us morally correct people. We will not let up until
everyone is safe. This is a real big deal and you will shortly see what
happens to people who cover up such safety problems. I hope your not one of
them.
..... If anyone out there wants to log in with R on what's happened to you
please do it anonymously on this site. I'll back you up. The only reason I
remain anonymous is because if I don't then I can't fix it. I'm sure big corporate
lawyers will try and take me down.There were well over 100 last year and I
heard 150 . This needs to be corrected before the next boating season.
You might contact ......... He launched one 10 miles out. Been a couple of
Contenders recently. It's time someone put and end to this BS. I can guarantee
you would be singing a different tune if your family was involved. Like to movie
said. "I've had enough and I can't take it anymore."
Mr. Wizard response: We have beat the fire issue long enough.
Lets try to put this one behind us. Those having further fire concerns, please
report them using the process the U.S. Coast Guard supplied us earlier:
Individuals can file defect reports electronically at the Boating
Safety web-site, www.uscgboating.org,. Upon entering the site click on
Safety and then click on Safety Defect Report. The report can be filled out
on screen and submitted immediately. I suggest that you also post our toll
free number (800) 368-5647 that individuals can call to get information on
how to report safety defects on their boats or engines.
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht
Much has been said about Ficht and it interration with the four strokes. The
truth of the matter is that both have a home. If horsepower to weight means
anything, then the Ficht is a clear winner. The last time that the Navy laid
a H----- four stroke down in the hull of a sub, the oil drained out on the
deck. Ficht has a home in markets that the 4-stokes do not.
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Gimbh
To the gentleman who thinks that DFI is not the future. I suggest that he do
a little research of the facts instead of repeating rumor and gossip! Ficht
technology is the best thing to happen to two strokes since sliced bread! The
posibilities are endless: lawn equipment, aircraft, automobiles, recreational
vehicles you name it. Ficht uses less moving parts and can work on just about
any motor from a 5 hp to a 300 hp. As a former Merc tech and also an OMC
racer I can say from experiance that problems are not prone to any one
manufacturer. Merc has had it's share of problems they've just done a good
job of keeping theres under wraps. Merc and OMC were both rushed by EPA to
get these motors on the market and it's a shame cause some good technology
was given a black eye due to problems which arose out of this rush. Just
before OMC's declaration of bankruptcy they finally hade a handle on all of
the problems. If Ficht was junk then why did Bombardier spend millons
obtaining 100 percent to the rights of Ficht technology? Maybe you know
something that they don't. It's going to take some time to repair the damage
that has been done to OMC but mark my word, in two years all of you people
throwing rocks at OMC will either be eating crow or will be droping your
Mercs for OMC's.
Date: Sun, 18 Feb 2001
From: Anonymous
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Transition team
A good portion of the transition team was indeed layed off on Friday.
However there are still some people in accounts payable, parts, credit, IT, a
few in tech service, and in HR. Everyone in engineering is gone. Rumor has
it that some will be called back in two weeks after the sale has been closed.
Bombardier has been interviewing. They can't hire anyone yet to work in a
company that they don't own. So much can not be done until the sale is final.
and a lot is still dependent on what the EPA rules on some of the buildings.
Bombardier is not buying them if they will end up being responsible for the
cleanup of the epa problems. Thats a matter of the sins of the
forefathers....
Please leave my name off of this.
and sign me anonymous
Date: Sun, 18 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Buckley
Brunswick CEO has been quoted several times about Johnson and Evinrude
ately concerning matters that could only envolve Bombardier. Buckley made
statements that it would take Jesus to resurrect Evinrude and Johnson and
also that Bombardier would begin making engines of their own in 2002. What
in the world are the magazines doing asking LSU how Ole Miss is coming along.
Buckley has been so absorbed in this Bombardier deal that I am convinced
that he is worried.
Date: Sun, 18 Feb 2001
From: c
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Western North Carolina OMC Plants
Mr. Wizard,
Can you please find out something about the Western North Carolina OMC plants
in Andrews, Spruce Pine, and Burnsville? I would like to know if Bombedier plans
to open these plants up again. There are a lot of x-employees that are ready to
start production.
Thanks,
Mr. Wizard reply: One of our viewers reported on Feb 14th, "on the news today my
wife said that they said that the burnsville,spruce pine,and andrews.and they
would recall the laidoff workers first then take applications. in about a month."
Date: Sun, 18 Feb 2001
From: r
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Omc & Welcraft ???
To how it may Concern
Received a Call from Florida
They Heard Wellcraft Bought OMC for 135 mill.
Any Truth to it ???
Indiana Ex employee
Date: Sun, 18 Feb 2001
From: billy
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Parts
Have you anything about the omc parts ??? when might they be up and running
again, I need parts more so than engines !!!! thanks, I really have liked your
coverage of the omc problems of the last couple of months !!!!
Date: Mon, 19 Feb 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
I dont understand how after all the rubbish omc has made since 1985,
that people still think they were making the best outboards in the world!
Wake up to yourselves!
the brits lost they're motor bike industry with the same head in the sand attitudes.
Good luck Bombardier but choose your staff carefully.
Date: Mon, 19 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Boat Repair
Mr. Wizard,
My 2000 Javelin was recalled by the company to be fixed under warranty.
I found out Javelin sent it out to be fixed.The company to fix,which I do not
know the name, has fixed my boat but will not return it to me until Javelin pays
the bill. What do I do to get my boat back? I do not feel I should pay the bill
because it was warranty work and the work was undertaken before all this
happened to OMC. I did not give the company the right to give my boat to
someone else to fix. Looking for some help in Ohio
Mr. Wizard reply: This is why I advised a few folks to try to bail their boats
in for warranty repairs, out of the OMC facilities when the bankruptcy started
to go down. You may be lucky somebody even knows where it is. Suspect
it will eventually get straightened out, but may take a while.
The next day (Feb 20) we received a response with some inside contact
information for this boater and forwarded the info to him.
Date: Mon, 19 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Genmar
As a Hydra-Sports and Stratos dealer, have yet to hear from Genmar.
Any other OMC boat dealer heard from them???
Date: Mon, 19 Feb 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: miami boat show update...
FYI, a well positioned person at the Miami boat show informed me that omc
products, ...initially almost nonexistent, have almost disappeared. Evinrudes
are being pulled off boats and reassembled with competitors motors.
Bombardier's statement last week was generally considered by the boating
public to be vague, weak and ineffectual. Perhaps in conjunction with their
hands being legally tied they honestly haven't had the time to decide on a
formal plan of attack. However..time is money and opportunity, and Bom would
be well advised not to wait too long. With Merc and Yamaha currently feasting
on the carcass of omc market share, Bombardier may well lose the market share
war before they can even implement a plan to engage.
Date: Mon, 19 Feb 2001
From: N
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: A Gazette article
N stopped by The Montreal Gazette
and suggested that you read a news article at the following address:
http://www.montrealgazette.com/business/pages/010217/5075572.html
Tues Feb 20
Date: Mon, 19 Feb 2001
From: Marcia
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Questions ... and No Answers
Mr. Wizard,
My husband is a retiree from OMC and we live in Mtn. Home, Arkansas
(there are several OMC retirees who live here and we love it!)
However, we have received no official information from anyone relating to any
retiree-type issues ...pension, health insurance or prescription cards, etc.
Fortunately our pension payments for January and February have arrived in
our checking account but we are careful not to write checks on it until we
KNOW it's there.
The most recent 'rumor' (unfortunately it's probably a fact) we've 'heard' is
that effective March 1 we will be losing our health insurance coverage;
AND will not officially be notified of the fact. What about those retirees who
don't have contacts 'up north' ... what happens to them? Do they begin
expensive health treatments and then all of a sudden they are told 'so sorry
... you have no insurance?' Yep. Probably that will be the scenario.
Anyhow, do you or does anyone in your 'readership' have any thoughts about
where to begin looking for health insurance coverage? We aren't seriously ill,
but are at an age where we don't want to be without coverage either. Also,
we are not eligible for Medicare (not yet 65).
Mr. Wizard, we appreciate your website ... and any leads we can receive would
be greatly appreciated.
Wife of an OMC retiree
Mr. Wizard reply: First, if I received ANY check from OLD OMC, I would
immediately cash it and deposit the funds in an account to set till the dust clears.
Same with any kind of payroll, retirement, scholarship funds automatic deposit.
I would immediately move them to another account til the dust settles.
NOT suggesting you spend them, just suggesting you get them moved where they
cannot be automatically pulled back.
Second, on the insurance issue, Mrs. Wizard and I recently spent some time on
http://www.ehealthinsurance.com
This online database of providers can be accessed by some other sites as well.
It makes it pretty easy to rapidly sift through the plans available in your state.
At least one site allows you to enter some more detailed circumstances
http://www.quickquote.com/hihome.html
Many suggest trying to obtain insurance through some sort of group (AARP,
self employed, associations, etc). We have found the rates quoted to individuals
to be quite competitive with group rates. You may find it different in your area.
Suggest you consider visiting with a local credit union, your accountant,
a financial planner, your health care provider, a local independent insurance agent
and your friends for additional ideas.
Good luck.
Mr. Wizard Followup: This morning we received some inside contact information
for the boater who wrote yesterday about recently sending his boat to Javelin for
warranty repairs and now it is caught up in the OMC bankruptcy problems and he is
having trouble getting it back. We forwarded the information to the boater.
A big thanks to those who are helping him out!
Date: Tue, 20 Feb 2001
From: w
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Just finished Ft. Wayne IN show, OMC products sold well, very well. I would like to
say thank you to the Stratos boat rep. that helped work the show with us. He, like
all of us, has been on a roller coaster of emotions. I think it takes great pride to still
be going to shows and not really know what the future is. It is this reason we will
continue to sell Stratos and Javelin boats, besides being an awesome product. The
workers for that company truly care about there dealers. My marina would like to
thank ALL of the workers, like this Stratos Rep., who have supported their dealers
and stood their ground. Thank You so much!!!!!
Date: Tue, 20 Feb 2001
From: E
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: XX 2/17 reply to R; Ficht Fire
XX, As one who has been through a 2000, 200 Ficht fire, I could not
agree more with your assessment of the seriousness of the situation.
After five months I still have not fully recovered.
Your comments concerning your work and the need for anonymity
confused me. What type of action are you alluding to? The way things
look to me, my lawsuit now appears to be worthless and I am unaware of any
alternatives. Please feel free to respond to me directly or on the board.
I haveseen what can happen with these engines, not just mine but others
as well. I have had numerous discussions with the Coast Guard and others
and, like you, I urge owners not to leave the dock until a complete fix
is completed.
PS Mr Wizard, I think you are wrong in blowing off the subject the way
you did to XX. Very few people are even aware of the problem and the
potential consequences. I got the impression that the CG was a little
confused about how to proceed. At a minimum, they should have at least
notified owners of the potential hazard by now.
Mr. Wizard reply: We are absolutely not publishing any more fire messages.
I did not blow off the subject, we published about 20 fire messages over
the last few weeks and featured the leading article on the site for a few
days. You can view them from our Feedback page
Use your browser search function to search it and the earlier feedback
pages accessible from it for the word "fire".
The messages have been viewed by tens of thousands of viewers. It
has been beat to death. We are trying to cover ongoing OMC marketing,
dealer, employee, ex-employee, retiree, startup, etc issues. I work another
job to buy food for me and Mrs. Wizard and do not have time to post any
more fire messages. I recently visited with the original poster and thanked
him for calling the issue to the attention of our readers and for his expert
comments concerning the problem, but we would be ending our coverage
of the issue. We were able to link several individuals and groups to him
that are allowing him to bring the topic to a broader audience. I will
also forward this readers note to him.
I suspect Bombardier will keep their eye on the fire issue. Although
they are not technically liable for past problems, if they try to go forward
with the model names and the old units become well know for catching
fire, they are smart enough to realize that is not good for future sales
and will probably take some sort of action.
The Coast Guard is NOT confused. If reports on Ficht fire frequency and
severity of injury in their accident reporting system reach a certain level,
or if they receive a large number of safety defect reports
http://www.uscgboating.org/mf/mf_SafetyReport.asp
they will investigate.
Date: Tue, 20 Feb 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Southern plants
Mr Wizard;
In reference to the Feb 14 e-mail, where and when did the lady see or hear
the news item about the Burnsville, Spruce Pine, Andrews plants re-opening?
Any news is good news now. We all need to know something one way or the
other. The sell of OMC relieved a lot of stress but it's building back up quick.
I hope Bombardier takes advantage of the skilled and ready-to-go workers
here in the south. If not, let us know so we can get on with our lives.
Thanks T
Please delete my e-mail address
Date: Tue, 20 Feb 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Termination of All Employee Benefits
Just received a notice from the Bankruptcy court of Illinois, this is
what it said:
Please take notice that on February 21, 2001 at 11:00 a.m., there shall be a
hearing (the "Hearing") before the Honorable Carol A. Doyle, United States
Bankruptcy Judge, Everett McKinely Dirksen Courthouse, 219 South Dearborn
Street, Room 613, Chicago, Illinois 60614, or any other judge sitting in her place
or stead, on the Motion for Entry of an Order Pursuant to 11 U.S.C. 105 and 363
Authorizing Termination of All Employee Benefit Plans (the "Motion") filed by
Outboard Marine Corporation and certain of its affiliates ("OMC"). By this motion,
OMC requests entry of an order authorizing OMC to terminate certain of its
employee benefit plans, policies, and arrangements (collectively, the "Benefit
Plans"), including OMC's medical and life insurance plans, savings plans, and
retiree medical benefit plan. The Benefit Plans shall be terminated as soon as
reasonably practicable. OMC anticipates that the effective date of the termination
shall be March 1, 2001. Termination of the Benefit Plans has been necessitated
by OMC's recent bankruptcy filing, the complete shutdown of its business, and
the sale of substantially all its assets. Objections to the Motion must be filed and
served upon counsel to OMC at the address below so as assets. Objections to
the Motion must be filed and served upon counsel to OMC at the address below
so as to be received prior to the Hearing. Questions about this matter may be
directed to 1-800-888-4662.
Wed Feb 21
Date: Tue, 20 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: All Benefits
All benefits probably includes Cobra also. Don't know for sure
does anyone out there know.
Thanks
We received the item below in our U.S. Postal mail
As an OMC dealer for the past 25 years, it will be very important
for all OMC dealers to get behind the new Johnson and Evinrude
(Bombardier). I know of quite a few dealers who have taken on
other outboard brands in the last month. Don't compete with
Evinrude & Johnson in your own showrooms. We all need to work
together to get back to #1.
Sure, we all got screwed by Soros, Fix and the rest but this is a
new era and we must not let our frustrations of the recent past
influence our decisions for the near future.
Let's all get behind Bombardier and give them our total support
so we can all get back to selling and servicing the best outboard
in the world.
Date: Wed, 21 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Milwaukee Retirees
Mr. Wizard,
Just saw the last email from a retiree's wife in Arkansas questioning
retiree benefits and wondering if anyone knows if the Milwaukee, or
any of the retirees for that matter, are being represented in the court
hearing today?
Isn't there some law or something to say they can't terminate without
Some kind of notice - 30 or 60 days to give everyone a change to find
coverage? And how can they terminate pensions? Isn't that government
insured?
Why is there no communication with the Milwaukee people regarding the
proceedings? Why isn't someone from the Steelworkers Union representing
all retirees & objecting to any of this?
It's so unfair to think of all the families being affected by this. People who
had 30+ years of service with Evinrude/OMC and are just expected to
accept all of this without a fight!!!
How convenient to receive a notice 2/20/01 for a court hearing on
2/21/01 at 11AM!!
If anyone knows anything, I hope they can relay the information for all of
us sitting & waiting!
(Please delete my email address!!!)
Thank you!
Mr. Wizard reply: I am absolutely not an expert in this area, but
think the notice is referring to current ex-employee medical and life insurance
plans and retiree medical benefits, not the actual pensions themselves.
Believe at least part of the pensions will still be operational under normal
government regulations. This is NOT a professional opinion.
Date: Wed, 21 Feb 2001
From: Bob
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: termination of all employee benefits
today at 11:00 at the Everett Dirksen Courthouse in Chicago OMC is requesting
authorization to terminate all employee benefits including retiree medical benefits.
OMC anticipates that the effective date will be March 1,2001. How can they do
that to us retirees?
Mr. Wizard reply: Sounds brutal, but there is no money. Do the math.
Sold OMC for less than $100 million, had over $700 million in creditors.
Is nothing left after the court divides the proceeds.
Date: Wed, 21 Feb 2001
From: T
To: Gary
Subject: Re: Southern plants
Thank you for the personal reply. I sure didn't expect one. Thanks for keeping
everyone updated. Your website is the first and last we hit everyday.
God Bless you and your family.
Date: Wed, 21 Feb 2001
From: V
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: RE: court hearing at 11 AM 2/21
The court hearing today at 11 AM took away All benefits going to All
employees and retirees From OMC. It is a legal technicality because the
Pension Benefit Guarantee Corp. cannot take over the pensions from OMC.
So! while the process of legally dissolving OMC is in court (today @ 11 AM),
SEI is handling the pensions, then the judge will assign the pensions to PBGC
which has a website (PBGC.gov). I haven't heard the results of that hearing
but I was told that certainly our pensions Will Be at PBGC and for sure, our
insurance and COBRA is no longer there as of March 1'st, however, just as
there is no guarantee that we won't have insurance, there is also no
guarantee that we will be without insurance. I am hoping and wondering what
answers will come for us in the insurance dept since we are a large group.
Check out that pension website - it was comforting. Now we just need
insurance and jobs for some of us. I understand that there were 5 lawyers
representing the employees today. That's what it said in the court dockets
website. Official news should be forthcoming pretty soon I would think.
Date: Wed, 21 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Loyal, but not stupid
I am a loyal full line OMC (ex) dealer. I have Javelin,Stratos,Seaswirl,
Striper,Chris Craft and engines too. I have waited until I can wait no more.
I have just signed Yamaha and applied for Merc also. Bombardier should
have made some kind of encouraging announcement. We must eat.
It is not optional. What harm would it have done to make statements
about what they would do should this deal actually occur. They did not.
Now , I know of no dealers who have waited. We have all taken on other
lines. I am the last to move. But, enough is enough.
I am still astounded that they did not understand this and realise that time
was running out to retain the dealers loyalty.
Thurs Feb 22
Thu, 22 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Docket
Curious about your thoughts in regards to Docket #622 - Seems to
me like this opens up a whole can of worms for Bombardier.
Mr. Wizard reply: First, a little background as I understand
it, Mr. Rabe was an exec at OMC and in March of 1997 he negotiated
a severance agreement, saying that if he was let go during the period
which included the Greenway era he was to receive a certain
compensation and benefits package. He says the payment amounts
were to be secured by deposits into a trust of least $1 million.
Mr. Rabe says that when Mr. Jones received advisement from the
Engineering and Service depts concerning the Ficht engine contained
"serious design flaws which were potentially dangerous", Mr. Jones
decided to sell the engines anyway. Mr.Rabe complained and says
his complaints were "a proximate cause of the termination of his
employment from OMC on Sept. 30, 1998."
Now Mr. Rabe is filing in the Bankruptcy hearing attempting to receive
his severance package. He thinks OMC had an insurance policy
covering his severance package (meaning the money may still be
obtainable from this insurance company, it would not have to come
from the general proceeds of the sale of OMC which already has lots
more creditors fighting over it than money available) and he wants his
money.
Now, for Bombardier, they seemingly have no monetary responsibilities
to Mr. Rabe, or responsibilities for the existing engines in the field,
but could get interesting with Federal Bankruptcy Court documents
purporting major players inside OMC tried to block sale of Ficht
engines "which were potentially dangerous". Certainly could taint
the trade names a bit. Would be interesting if the court brought in
a few of the folks listed in the document and put their testimony
on paper.
In real life, safety objections surrounding new products are often
raised internally. Good companies try to anticipate the problems,
test the products, design out the safety problems, reduce the
frequency of the problem, reduce the severity of injury, use
warning labels,etc. But eventually, when you do your best and
the product reaches the level of risk you are willing to accept,
you put it on the market (and buy product liability insurance if
you can). Sometimes, a few people are still concerned, but
management has to go ahead based on the best judgement
available (and test data). Hopefully the right standards were
employed by OMC, time will tell.
Date: Thu, 22 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Feed back on court hearings
Hi Wizard,
Any feedback yet on the court hearings on Benefits?????
Date: Thu, 22 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
I am very happy that a company that Bombardier is the Mother of OMC.
If you think about it.....Bombardier is a GIANT!! they will take FICHT
under they care and make it better than it is ,,,like Japan....they take a
product, make changes and make it the best..
It is my believe that FICHT tech. is going to be around for many, many
years..and I say to the dealers..... follow the.leader!!!...NO other
company in the marine industry has such a good product!!!.
Date: Thu, 22 Feb 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Spruce Pine
Mr. wizard,
I worked at the Spurce Pine plant for almost 16 years. Can you give
me any feed back at all on what could be the out come for this plant.
Do you think they will call the old employes if it is reopened or do you
think they might move it some where else?
Thank you for your site and all the information.It is really the only place
we have gotten any.
I would really like to donate to your site but as a single parent ends
don't hardly meet at this time. Thanks
A Friend Afar
Date: Thu, 22 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
My father was employed with OMC and is concerned with what happened
in court today regarding his medical insurance. Do you have info on this,
if so, can you please advise. ,,, he took early retirement in 1986.
Fri Feb 23
Date: Thu, 22 Feb 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Reply to Loyal but not Stupid
Dear Wizard,
In response to the e-mail from 'loyal but not stupid', I understand
and agree with him; however, I guess I am 'stupid', because I am
100% OMC and have NOT signed with anyone as of yet. I agree
that Bombardier should have at least given us some news about
their 'plan' by now, and I also think that their 80% comment left
me feeling somewhat uneasy. My husband and I both work at our
business, and we depend on our business 100%. We have had the
Yamaha rep. stop by several times the last couple of months, but
we have not signed with him. One of our other reps came by today
and we questioned him about what some of the other OMC only
dealers are doing. He said that most of them are 'waiting it out' and
have not signed up with anyone else as of yet.
I thought I was in the norm, until I read this e-mail...I just thought I
would wait and see what Bombardier had to offer before I took
another route.
p.s. When are we supposed to hear from Bombardier? I thought I
had heard that Bombardier commented it would be 'days instead of
weeks' and 'sooner instead of later'...did I read wrong?
Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: time waits for nobody
Bombardier has done the prudent thing. They have made no announcements
and are not committed to anything as far as the customers go. They have
allowed the public and the dealers to assume the outcome. We have run
without a company behind us for almost three months and we are drained.
When bombardier comes out with an announcement, it will be too little and
too late. The deterioration rate is exponential and each day is many times
worse than the day before. I have run out of funds and time. Now I struggle
for existence. If Bombardier succeeds, It will take eons to turn it around.
A month ago the bleeding could have been stopped. When CPA's make
business decisions, they make small steps in the right direction. Unfortunately,
when they got to the gate, it was closed.
Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001
From: XX
To:
Subject: Ficht
I am particularly interested in what 'they' felt were the potentially
hazardous problems. We never saw any problems in our shop, that I would
consider a hazard. Only in the context of a motor that might quit off
shore; that could happen to an engine
Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001
From: xx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Four Winns
Mr. Wizard,
Four Winns began taking applications this week from all current and
exemployees. They have already contacted people about going back
to work. Maintainence and some lead people start next Tuesday and
Wednesday. Lamination and support departments start next Thursday
and Friday. Full production to start on March 5. Nothing on wages yet
waiting for the final paper work to be completed from Genmar.
Thank you for all your support for all ex-OMC employees.
Sat Feb 24
Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001
From: william
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
As dealers of Evinrude or Johnson products you are somewhat distressed.
But before you pledge your allegiance to Mr. Buckley , remember?.. he was
miffed because he wasn't allowed to liquidate the engine business at OMC.
Please weigh in your mind, is it better to hold hope in someone who was harmless
to your situation or invite the wolf to dinner ?
Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Loyal
To the dealers who remain in waiting, I hope it works out. I am not
trying to create doubt . I am just frustrated and feel that Bombardier
could have come out sooner with some positive info. Perhaps my
situation was worse than others. I am not happy with having to sign
up with other engine manufactures, but I could not gamble any further.
Time will tell what the best course of action was. I am an Evinrude
and Johnson lifetime guy, but this time I had to take care of my
business.
I am not calling anyone stupid either. Please excuse me if I insulted
you. I am just one dealer and cannot speak for all. However, in
Louisiana, every dealer that I know has taken on Yamaha and Merc.
All, not some.
God Bless All
Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Another "stupid" OMC dealer
D,
Just so you don't feel like the Lone Ranger. We have a family operated,
100% OMC dealership that has been in business for 33 years and we have
not jumped ship yet either. Yes we have Mercury contracts on the desk
waiting to be signed and hopefully we won't have to. We need Bombardier
to declare their intentions one way or the other soon and that means days,
not weeks or months.
Date: Fri, 23 Feb 2001
From: Steve
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Four winds
You are saying they are taking applications is that manpower or Genmar?
Date: Sat, 24 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
To all OMC dealers, I am sure that Bombardier has a plan for you...You need
to understand that they don't want to make mistakes. They are studying all
parts of the puzzel..This is a company that knows how to succeed.....so be
patient...you will hear news very soon...The former owners of OMC did not
know anything about the marine industry
Bombardier is a genius!!!!
Mon Feb 27
Date: Sun, 25 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Loyal
Somehow we have managed to survive to this point. I believe that
Bombardier will take ownership in a day or two. To those who have
remained calm, I commend you. I agree that Buckley is the wolf who
would eat little blue evinrude. I also am convinced that the past OMC
people did their best to make it and just ran out of steam. I hold no
grudges and remain interested in the success of Evinrude and Johnson.
Bombardier can make it happen. They have the money and have paid
pennies on a dollar for the product. I pray that they take some of the
money that they saved in buying this company at liquidation prices and
spend that money on goodwill and marketing. Done correctly, this can
be a reversal of fortune. Right now Merc and Yamaha are gobbling
up market. Bombardier can slam the door shut and regroup. Next week
is pivotal and will determine the outcome for us as well as Bombardier.
Date: Sun, 25 Feb 2001
From: Robert
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Regulatory Hurdles for Bombardier in OMC Engine Acquisition
Mr. Wizard,
What do you know about the remaining "regulatory hurdles" to the
Bombardier acquisition of the OMC engine assets? I assume this is some
type of FTC approval, but I have not been able to find anything specific.
I called Henry Lonski (Bombardier contact point), but he is apparently
too busy at present.
Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Nightmare continues
Hi Wizard welcome to a new week,
The nightmare continues as thousands lose their health care insurance. I
thought I could at least survive with Cobra for a few months and now that
is going to be taken away or it appears that way. It seems that this is
against the laws that were created to avoid just such a thing as we are
seeing now. Any and all monies of the sell should have been allocated to
the formal employee's to cover severance, insurance and pensions etc.
before any other creditors are even considered. But the courts continue
to cater to the people with money that can afford to fight these issues.
Where is the justice and where is the moral values that this country once
had???? Does anyone out there know of a good company for health
insurance coverage at an affordable cost??
Mr. Wizard reply: Try comparing health insurance policies on
http://www.ehealthinsurance.com
Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Dealer
As a marina owner who sells only outboards, (over 100 a year), I am willing
to wait for Bombardier to close the deal within the next few weeks. I do
believe however at this point they should have hired back their sales staff
to start getting the dealers input on what they have to do to earn back our
business. A lot of issues remain, and I am very vulnerable at this point to
start selling other brands. In the past OMC has received about 85% of our
business, with Mercury the balance. Our continued business is by no means a
sure thing for the OMC brand. Of course there is a possibility that they
might not want to do business with us. One decisive factor for our operation
is the continuance of producing the product here in America with the same
employees that have given virtually their lives to this company. My biggest
complaint has always been management and their lack of concern with what
their dealers want. If their treatment of dealers in the past is any
indication of how they treated their employees, then it truly has been a
rough and rocky road out there for those who have produced what we consider
fine products. The problems came from the lies within management.
Good luck and hope everything turns out well and we finally do get a
partnership that includes the manufacture, dealers and most of all the
employees.
A Dealer in Florida
Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2001 1
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: D
Mr. Wizard,
Okay, so I took a plunge at it and called the number given for Henry Lonski
with Bombardier. I spoke with his assistant who took my call, listened to my
questions on warranty, parts ordering, motor orders, etc., informing her we
were a mom and pop business, single line OMC dealer, etc., and although
she kept apologizing, over and over, her only comment was 'they would
know something and let the dealers know something some time in the middle
of March, possibly sooner, but she couldn't say'... blah, blah, blah. Will this
ever come to an end? Will we ever get back on track? Are we completely
stupid to staying single line OMC, or just a little slower than the others? Have
we completely lost 2001 ?
Have you heard the saying..."Do something, even if it's wrong!"
Kinda the feeling I'm having now. I'd rather hear any kind of news, even if I
won't like it! Well, guess I better go ahead and call some of my customers
who have been waiting to hear something, one of them is a fishing guide
who depends on his Ficht engine (now with a blown powerhead) to make a
living, and since it is practically brand new, keeps paying the note at the bank
because he's up to ears....I know you've heard the story...like all the rest of us....
I try to keep giving my customer's hope, but it's hard to when I'm starting to
lose it! Hope you have a great week!
Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Genmar is selling boat assets
I have it on good authority that the Genmar affiliate that purchased the OMC
boat companies assets earlier this month have some of them up for sale. Last
week Genmar officials marched 2 sets of prospective buyers through their
newly aquired aluminum boat manufacturing facility in Syracuse Indiana.
Employees had feared that Genmar would shut them down and move the
machinery. What do you know?
Mr. Wizard reply: Aluminum boats don't come out of VEC molds.
Also suspect he harbors thoughts of moving some of the fiberglass lines to
existing VEC facilities and keeping the tradenames.
Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Spring has Sprung
In Louisiana and the rest of the deep south, spring is here. Boat season
is upon us and people are shopping. Once the season starts in the deep
south, the rest of the nation is not far behind. As a season begins, it goes.
A great spring is usually followed by a good year. Unfortunately, the opposite
is also true. A bad spring is seldom followed by a good year. Bombardier
and Genmar would do well to come out now with great news, otherwise
the investment may lose value.
Just my opinion. Keep up the good work and God Bless America.
Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001
From: A
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: OMC Sale Delay
I spoke to a local dealer who stated that the Genmar/OMC
transaction is being delayed, possibly permanently, due to EPA
cleanup issues. Based on recent Genmar announcements on Friday,
February 23, something significant must have developed to prevent
the closing on February 26. What's your feeling?
Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Long long road
Each day gets a little more difficult. Today we lost a sale on a boat.
The Procraft dealer made $4,000.00 profit and we tried to make half of
that. A Boat and motor with no company behind it is a hard sell.
Lawyers,judges,Bombardier and Genmar please get with the EPA and
FTC and do it now. Thousands suffer as you wrangle with the details.
Do what is right and move on. Mercury and Yamaha are telling us
that you will not be back this season. Tell us something. Let us know
something. We need parts and warranty now. Not next week. Now!
Each day I move further from Evinrude and Johnson and my boats look
less and less like product. I am beginning to recieve Yamaha engines
and hope to get Mercury soon. It is do or die. In two weeks we will be
in so much trouble with our customers that I will only pray that Evinrude
and Johnson were two cajun's that I once met.
Enough is enough,
Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: X-Hydra-Sports Employee
To all of the employees of Hydra-Sports in Columbia, S.C.==Everyone
has been awaiting the word of when the plant will reopen. Well guys,
there will be no more Hydra-Sports made here. Genmar purchased the
plant and rearranged all of our lives. The plant is now in the process
of packing and moving to Florida. To a lot of long time workers this will
hurt terribly. We had nearly 300 employees--dedicated employees. A
Great product was put into the market. We were all hoping to be back
to work by now or in the very near future. Good Luck to all because
after all of our hard work over the years we have now been made a
statistic. God Bless You !!!
Please do not use my e-mail address.
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: c
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Western north carolina OMC plants
Dear Mr. Wizard
Do you have any new info. on the western north carolina OMC plants.
on wheather they will open or not.
Wed Feb 28
Date: Wed 28 Feb 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Info
Interesting for Retirees
http://www.pbgc.gov/newsroom/press_releases/2001/pr01_21.htm
Mr. Wizard comment: Tlink above is a news bulletin from
the PBG (Pension Benefits Guaranty Corporation), the federal corporation
providing guaranteed benefits to many private-sector pension plans.
They announce they are taking over the underfunded OMC plan
covering more than 10,000 people. The pension benefit plan was
PBG insured, most of the retirement benefits are protected and
monthly checks to those who already retired will continue without
interruption.
Within a few months PBG will notify affected retirees if it has to
reduce payment of certain supplements and benefit improvements
because the additional amounts may not be fully guaranteed.
The OMC plan had about $454 million in assets with estimated
benefit liabilities of $527 million ($73 million underfunded).
Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Has there been any word yet on Bombardier's plans for any or all
of the NC facilities and employees?
Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001
From: a
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Dealer Comments
I can't say I've enjoyed reading your web page on matters of OMC,
yet I applaud your efforts of keeping dealers informed and up-to-date.
I'm a new and small dealer that took on Pontoon Boat sales, and OMC
last year. I've invested a substantial amount of money for additional tools
and equipment to obtain an above average service rating, I bought into
OMC's bulk parts purchase push and 10 engine minimum order delivery
prior to the chapter 11 date.
I did not participate in boat shows this year however, I did attend as
a spectator. I'm afraid I don't understand how any dealer large, or small
can afford the liability of selling a product that is not covered under a
manufacturer warranty. One or two powerhead failures could produce
very negative results. I can't understand why any one person would
obligate to the purchase of a product in question. I wouldn't.
How long will it take to bring production back on line after being shut
down for so long? How many of the past OMC employee's will come back?
Will the back-order's that are soon to come overwhelm us?
For the small guy that has to floor plan. What will the outcome of the
season result? Up North where I am, the peek of the sales season has
commenced. It will only last for so long, and it's over.
I believe Bombardier to be a strong company, that can produce a
positive outcome. 95% of the outboards on units docked at my location
are Johnson/Evinrude products, and I have always been a strong backer
of OMC Products and Technology advancements.
As with many other's I'm sure, I question my ability to ride out the
storm and wonder financially how much it's going to cost me this year to
sell outboards.
I have never in my life been unemployed, and I sympathize with the
ex OMC employee's. They all have financial and family responsibilities.
It will take a strong and determined individual to overcome the loss's induced
by OMC. I feel the strongest/best will have already moved on to job stability
elsewhere. What will be left for re-hire by Bombardier? How long will it take
to bring what customer's expect for support back on-line?
Good Luck to ALL!
Mr. Wizard reply: Many of the strongest and best moved on long
ago. See our Jan 3rd article that speculates OMC refused to provide
relocation assistance to its workers in an attempt to keep them around for
being rehired to increase the value of the auction proceeds (employee
knowledge and skills are worth a lot).
Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Murfreesboro Site
Please no name published - thanks.
When OMC wanted to setup shop in Murfreesboro, they talked the City
into issuing bonds to raise the money for the land, buildings etc with the
understanding that OMC would retire the bonds by 2005 (?).
That never happened so technically OMC does not own the properties
in Murfreesboro and cannot, therefore, hand them over to Genmar.
Seems to me Genmar should have known of this situation going in, but
I guess with all the 'stuff' going on, this one slid under the rug.
Will be interesting see if this queers the deal.
Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: delay
The delay is because of a dispute about the Murfreesboro plant.
You tell me how that many lawyers would have not understood what
was included in the deal.
Let us split hairs while the whole Evinrude and Johnson world looses
money and sleep. The boat plant is the point of contention and I pray
that there is a judge who can make a ruling and end this greed fest.
We want to eat and they want the whole thing for nothing. Get the
picture. I now have a MBA in liquidation.
Come on boys,
or get off of the pot
Viewer news tip / rumor
Four Winns will fire up in a day or two with almost a full compliment of
workers even if the deal is not closed.
Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: Gary Polson
Subject: Re: Murfreesboro Site
For what it's worth, apparantly several sizeable capital improvement
projects were tacked onto that bonding issue over the years. I've heard
the total figure quoted at close to $4 million. I am not a financial person
so I am not sure how all this works, but it would appear that some of the
equipment inside the plant could not be taken out without paying off the
City of Murfreesboro.
As a side issue - if the sale / transfer of assetts or whatever is not a
done deal, how can Genmar be re-opening Four Winns and packing up
Hydra Sports and sending them to sunny Florida ?? Something does not
make sense, at least to me.
If you post any of this please do not issue my name.
Thur Mar 1
Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Chapter 11
What is the current situation concerning the chapter 11 hearing of the OMC
group? Please advise.
Retired employee
Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Strongest and Best
This is to the person writing about the strongest and best moving on.
Well, here in Western North Carolina there isn't anything to move on to
unless you want to really Move. The strongest and the best are dedicated
workers and waiting on this sale to be finalized and decisions to be made
on whether the plants will be put back in action or not. I myself have
watched our products go down the line with pride. I myself will be proud
to be apart of the company that Bombs the black knight. Most of us are
going to school while we are waiting on the decisions that effect us and
we will be better employees when we go back to work.
We maybe down but not out.
Date: Thu, 01 Mar 2001
From: Anonymous
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Murfreesboro
Anonymous please!
There is a $5MM Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB)against the Murfreesboro
facility. This bond is due in 2007. OMC quick deeded this asset to the
Rutherford County Industrial Board (not affiliated with Rutherford County)
in 1993, I believe. Hurtin' for cash I guess, What's new. The bond is
guaranteed for OMC by a $5MM letter of credit from a bank in Canada.
Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier Information
Dear Wizard,
I just got back from the Bombardier Dealer Meeting in Florida last night
and had several long conversations with upper management including
executives involved in the OMC aquisition. I posted a condensed version
of what I learned on the boating-industry.com website. Their(Bombardier)
main problem is that until all the govt and court approvals are recieved
they really can't do much.
Maybe the dealers should start actively contacting the various govt and
court folks to help push this along. Bombardier really wants to get this
aquistion going but until all approvals are recieved it can't do much. In
my discusions I did tell them that they need to get more proactive on the
public relations and also need to start educating the dealers as to who
Bombardier is and what their company is all about. Hopefully they will
start to relay more information to the dealers and consumers soon. My
company has been a very large dealer for both OMC and Bombardier for
many years and having them own Johnson/Evinrude is the absolute best
way to guarantee the future success of the brands and the dealers.
Do you know of any way the dealers can help push this process through
the system any quicker? Also, is your fax number on the website?
Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2001
From: k
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
As an ex-OMC employee, I have been told I will not be able to get "COBRA
ins" because the company is now out of bus, why not? We are supposed to
be able to carry on ins. for up to 18 after coverage ceases why does it make
any difference if the company is around or not. This should be an agreement
between the insurance company and ex employees the company is no longer
involved.
Mr. Wizard reply: The contract was between OMC and the insurance firm, not
between you and the insurance firm. OMC no longer exists and the contract
forcing them to offer you a COBRA is null and void. In a normal ongoing firm,
they pay a premium for offering this option (costs more) because if the employee
leaves the firm and has been proven to be a high risk medical expense, the
insurance company must still offer them insurance under the COBRA.
In real life, sometimes you can find a pretty good deal with another firm
equaling or exceeding what your COBRA would have provided for lower
cost (if you are a low risk/healthy) . One place to comparison shop is
http://www.ehealthinsurance.com
You need to use caution in selecting an insurance company. Your
employer has already left you holding the bag. You do not want your
new insurance company to do the same. A local independent insurance
agent may be of help to you.
Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Syracuse, In. Plant, Close-Down?
Has anybody heard if the Syracuse Boat Plant, has a buyer yet??
There's a lot of good people waiting to find out.
And, NO, the Best and Strongest, have not ALL moved on!!
We built a lot of good Boat's in that plant, and can again.
From someone who Care's.
Fri Mar 2
Date: Thu, 01 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: Gary Polson
Subject: Re: Murfreesboro
I received info that, this am (Mar. 1st) , Genmar is considering backing
out on the Murfreesboro facility.
Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Another Month Gone by
To whom may care,
Please note that we are now in March and have no parts,no warranty and no
defininitive words from Genmar and Bombardier. The continuiance of this state
of affairs will surely please Mercury and Yamaha. In my simple mind I would
expect some positive statements soon. If not, I will have made some terrible
mistakes again. I wait, but I hear nothing. Please let us know if we have any
news or a time table that we can expect to hear of the completion of the sale.
Hanging on,
Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Shot in the Dark
Hello Everyone,
I have been saying what I believe for the last couple of months.
The truth is that I wish that I could actually talk to someone who
could speed this thing up. The judges,government agencies and
lawyers are moving at a snails pace and think that they are doing
a good job. They haven't a clue. Customers and dealers and
workers lives are hinging on this happening soon. Some of the details
are small compared with the big picture. If you spend a month on
a million dollar problem and you hold up 250,000,000.00 worth of
business, what did you save?
Date: Fri, 2 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Insurance
My daughter has been on Cobra since last Aug. I was assured by OMC
in Dec. that she would still be covered since she was already on it.
Premiums went up from $176 a month to $203. We paid for Jan. and
Feb. only to find out that until the court was through the ins. would not
get paid. Well we all know where that money is don't we. I had already
found my daughter better ins. for a LOT less, it doesn't include dental
but it has less deductable a $15 co-pay and it has a drug card, before
I recieved the papers saying ins. was canceled. To make a long story
short, cheaper and better ins. is out there. Maybe this small part of this
whole situation is a blessing.
Thanks for everything and please don't post name.
Date: Fri, 2 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bombardier
We are a new dealership (started in April 2000) and have always been die-hard
OMC fans. When we began this business, we had no question as to what brand
name we would carry, and we looked for other OMC enthusiasts to work with us.
Our start-up capital was depleted quickly with the required tools, parts
packages, etc. that OMC demanded to sign on. We paid willingly, looking
forward to the following sales season and the return on our investment while
selling a product we believed in. Our mechanic and our parts mgr are a
husband/wife team that have supported OMC for years, even using a Johnson
engine in the predominantly Mercury dragboat racing circuit.
Our horror at the demise of OMC was greatly alleviated by the purchase by
Bombardier. Now, we are at the threshold of bankruptcy, with two entire families
facing the probability of joblessness and loss of income. We are not the only ones
facing these problems, as you will find by checking any of the many websites
dealing with this situation. Yet, still no word from Bombardier. Thanks,
Bombardier, hope you offer compensation when this is over for the total
devastation caused by the lack of communication from you. We are losing not
only our livelihood and faith, but our hope as well.
Date: Fri, 2 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC MESS
I feel this whole thing concerning OMC turned out to be a Heart-breaking mess,
for a lot of good hard-working people!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This not knowing anything for certain, can be a real drainer on one's life.
Would certainly be nice if we were told something Positive concerning the Syracuse plant.
It only took a few minute's to turn our life's upside- down.
How about giving us something to look forward to for a chance???
Tues Mar 13
Note: Mr. Wizard was out of town for a week and some of
these messages were around a while before we posted them.
Date: Fri, 2 Mar 2001
From: xcc
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
So wiz, where are all these officers and v.p.'s now? Condo's overlooking
waukegan? New positions with genmar? While workers suffered loss of pay,
vacation, retirement, ins. ect. ect. ect. The lawyers$$$$ were able to
convince the judge how many millions in order to keep these KEY people from
leaving? 3.5m? When the courts can turn down $700,000 for one month of ins.
to retiree's. Who stood up for the little guy (The bread and butter workers)
in the courtroom with all these big shot lawyers? (these same lawyers who
said we'll look out for you?) One of those lawyers probably averages in one
hour what one workers take home was for one week???? The sad part was a
name you could trust was dragged thru the mud by plain old fashion make a
quick buck greed! Then along comes Irv. to the rescue. Big announcement
at miami??? Media hype? Funny thing is how those responsible for this are
sitting back celebrating in some 30th floor law office. While the former
employees are sitting in church pews praying for help. It is the children of
those employees who will have the memories of what OMC did to there parents
and the foresight to protect there kids from those who take from the hands
that sow.
To remember how christmas was made special by a parents love even in
the wake of the scrooge. How families have bonded closer in order to get
thru the tough times and to work together with others less fortunate. To all
of you: A prayer, a hope, and a dream.
sign me,
xcc
Date: Sat, 3 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: The Ides of March
A little foreshadowing. I think that we have squandered the opportunity to
avoid a crash landing. OMC companies have been non-functional for too
long to return without great expense. The current squabbling over crumbs
that prevents this transfer to occur in a timely fashion, will cost much more
than crumbs to repair.
Dealers are going to boatshows and they are not focusing on Evinrude and
Johnson. Quite the contrary, we are showing Yamaha and Mercury. We have
sold Evinrude and Johnson during this period, but it has not been good.
When Bombardier and Genmar finally take the reins, I hope that they spend
some of their savings .
Date: Sat, 3 Mar 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Work
To my former OMC Family - It is time to place yourselves in other positions and
move on. I have and am now whole again. It is hard to stay mentally fixed on
life when, of all things, our company dies out from under us. It is as if we lost a
valuable member of the family. We did. We lost each other, whether we built the
engines or we built the boats or trailers or sold them. I am still very proud to
see our products on the road. However, we have entered our third month of
mourning. It is with the graces of God that I have gone on. Except, every time I
read this site, it brings back the heart aches I have for everyone throughout our
world. Please, for the good of your immediate family, close the door on this and
piece yourselves back together. With all of my love and God speed.
Date: Sat, 03 Mar 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier
Selling season is getting very close. It's time for a major announcement
from Bombardier. If Bombardier is the automatic bilge pump for sinking
dealers, it better kick on in the next two weeks or the dealers will
need a underwater salvage crew to clean up the aftermath.
Date: Sun, 4 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Baton Rouge Boat Show
I just completed the boat show in Baton Rouge and this is what happened.
I sold one Javelin with a Mercury. Three Chris Crafts (maybe). Three Hawks
with Mercury. Two Anglers with Yamaha. I may have sold one or two Johnson
outboards. Having the Mercury and Yamaha outboards gave me the ability to
overcome objections to the Johnson and Evinrude out of business protest.
The Chris Craft name overcame the objection and partly because it had a
Volvo engine. I may have sold one Striper with a Johnson. All in all it could
have been worse. I am happy that I signed up with Mercury and Yamaha
because Bombardier and Genmar have not completed the sale. If the sale is
completed in a week or two we may be able to recoupe some jack in the
warranty department and also sell some Johnson and Evinrude engines. I
believe that the boats will spring back quickly, but the engines are going to
require some advertising.
I am an optimist and have been wrong almost everytime that I predict anything.
But, I am still expecting Bombardier to come back strong and Genmar also.
Tired of waiting, come on guys and make me right for once.
thanks for letting me vent,
Date: Sun, 4 Mar 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: The late OMC
Abt a month ago I posted a warning on this site abt all the joy out there
concerning Genmar and Bombadier, you can see why now.The ex-employee are
being hurt badly. The dealers are being creamed. Hope we all feel for them.
The two owners it seems are involved in a scorth- earth policy,between them
selves and the unsolvant co. For those of you mouthing the Black Max of Fond
du Lac, best check what their stock has done in the last month. At this time,
it appear thats all thats good ,that has come out of this debacle. My last
advise was that it would take 6 months to relieve the mess. New prediction.1
plus years. A third hand rumor out of Racine Wisc. An old OMC engineer claims
he was called back to work at the Waukegan plant. No info on who his employer
was to be.
Date: Mon, 5 Mar 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Andrews N.C. plant
I was wondering why I have not heard anything on the Andrews N.C. omc plant.
Would you have any information on this plant and if so please let me know?
I am a former employee of omc Andrews.Thank You.
Date: Mon, 5 Mar 2001
From: K
To:
Subject: (no subject)
Took this out of the Montreal Gazette news:
Montreal-based Bombardier Inc. got everything it wanted from OMC's sinking,
for about $50 million U.S. "We're not at all interested in the plants," said
Dominique Dionne, a Bombardier public-relations official. "We were interested
in the engine brands (Johnson and Evinrude) and the Ficht (fuel-efficiency
and anti-pollution) technology."
Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc history of mistakes
as an employee and participant in this industry for the last 34 years i
am surprised that it has taken omc this long to basically self destruct.
warranty problems are a good example, just go back to service bulletins
on the cobra stern drives. they basically had the oppertunity to take
the best of volvo and mercruiser and build a great unit, leaving the
r+d cost to the aformentioned. instead they tried to re invent the wheel
costing millions that could have been used to move ahead instead of
doing rework. i know mr jones was probably under pressure from the
board to get the ficht engines in the market. however he was obviously
warned that they were not ready,but did it anyway. so now here we are
with many families of omc and many ficht owners wondering whats next.
i am not saying omc is the only one, mercury has pulled some real boners
too. remember the 4hp gnat ? or thier first v-6 out boards? real dogs they
were !! but they jumped on it and corrected the problems with in one year.
i have also seen how arrogant omc can be with their dealers and their
behaviour in these past months is no surprise to me.i wish the best to
genmar and bombardier and the dedicated feild reps and service
instructors that work for omc.and , also hope that you can find some way
to change the way things are done so that products are ready for market
when they are put on the market. i have read what an unconventional
sucsesfull head of a publicly owned buisiness said "make the customer
happy,the employees will be happy,and the investor will get what he
wants" iam the service manager at a mid sized marina here in the mid west
and work with that mantra in mind.the customers are happy ,the employees
are happy and the service department is profitable. the owner\investor
is very happy.i beleive that matra could work for omc as well again:
to all you omc eployees and your prospective new employers Good Luck!!!!
Date: Sun, 4 Mar 2001
From: F
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC and the American Way.
I won't recount my own horror stories with my 98 ficht 115. I will tell you that
when I put my guide boat together in 98, it was my goal to buy All-American
made products. I've learned my lesson once and for all never to restrict myself
to that program Ever again! The problems with OMC is typical and represents all
thats wrong with our country at large. Its a systemic decay of values and personal
responsibilities, to each other and to customers. Make money at all cost for
those at the top and to hell with the employee's and to the customers. Its hard
to realize that this is the same country that produced the P51 Mustang and
won WW2. Another great American product and Co. is gone forever.OMC will
never be the same and everyone knows it. Its gone and lets face it, so are
many other good things that made America great.I'm just a little man, but you
can bet you're bottom dollar, that whatever Bomb.comes out with policy wise,
it will be Much Less than what we had. The trend in this country is more money
for less product and value.Thats what I see.I want to thank all OMC employee's
for trying, some more than others, to make a good product. Forgive me for saying
it, but I'm now going Global. The Japenese zero was a good plane to.My next
purchase will be a new Honda 4 stroker. Good Bye America. The lawyers have
done their work very well. Moving on in Georgia........
Date: Tue, 06 Mar 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC and Bombardier
I have been watching your site, and have been puzzled by the lack of
info regarding Bombardier's purchase of OMC. I am a dealer in Gananoque
Ontario and feel out in the cold. So I called Bombardier's headquarters
in Montreal. They referred me to their base in Florida. I implored them
to keep info flowing to the dealers, even if it is only re-assurance
about their intentions. The result? Bombardier faxed the dealer network
this morning Feb. 6, with an assurance type of letter from Rock Lambert
Vice President and General Manager of Bombardier Motor Corporation of
America and "the person in charge of Evinrude, Johnson and Ficht Ram
Injection. He goes on to paraphrase Michel Bartl President and chief
operating officer, who says basically,
"the acquisition of the Evinrude and Johnson brands marks the beginning
of a new and exciting chapter in the Bombardier success story".
Apparently they are held up for the moment with the FTC and some other
issues, but are committed to geting things rolling by Mar 15 even if
they cannibalize new products to for inventory supply and demand.
Date: Tue, 6 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: warranty
Warranty is good on 2000 and 2001 engines. Bombardier just faxed us
the good news. The news is good, but a week late. We just had our boat
show last weekend and could have used the news.
Oh well,
Date: Tue, 6 Mar 2001
From: Robert
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
In learning of the fact that OMC retirees are going to lose there benefits
is one more reason that workers Who spend there life working for a company
with a promise of benefits when they retire are again on the short end of the
stick. The government lets companies under fund there pension plans and
the tax payers pick up the tap. And big companies wonder why young workers
have no loyalty. I bet top management left with there pockets full. They make
all the bad decisions and they still come out on top.
Date: Thu, 8 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Genmar bottom feeders
A bottom feeder is always a bottom feeder. Genmar, who stole the boats for
pennies on a dollar, will not provide warranty on Javelin and Stratos. So they
leave the dealers with the problem. You tell me if you would be happy. I am not
surprised at Jacobs. I was told that he would take care of himself. He is the
biggest and can do what he wants. Any dealer who can survive selling boats
without factory warranty is lucky. I have 15 boats still in inventory(no factory
warranty). I will have to provide the warranty thru my dealership, otherwise they
will not sell. Lovely man. He buys a boat group worth 250 million and cannot
take a warranty hit. Why on earth would I promote his company.
sincerely,
battered dealer
Date: Thu, 8 Mar 2001
From: Chris
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC's PRINCECRAFT
Brunswick (stock symbol BC) has a press release dated today that they have
bought subject.
Date: Thu, 8 Mar 2001
From: The H
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Syracuse, IN
Mr. Wizard,
It really pains me to read the article in Boat Biz about the Syracuse plant being
desolved and moved to Lebanon Mo.
As a former employee, I remember at one time about a year ago, after a large boat
show, it was relayed to us, the employees, that dealer wanted Lowe boats to come
from Syracuse, In. I think it's great that Genmar is calling back employees and
giving them their old jobs back, but they also have to remember that there is others
also.Sorry for sounding a little sarcastic but what about the rest of us.
Sincerely,
former employee at Syracuse
Date: Fri, 9 Mar 2001
From: Doug
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC news?
Hi guy!
I just heard a rumor that I must disbelieve but have to send along
'just in case'.
>From 'Frank'?? Anyway, it goes like this;
<<>>
this just in :
the fax just came out of the machine. bomb expects to close the deal
today and will honor all 2000 2001 product warranties. this will include
the brackets for the injectors this is a simple fix that takes less than a
hour i have recieved kits from the omc but had to pay for them they will
not ship any parts to dealers that have outstanding balances i fortunatly
did not although they still ow me alot for rebates that im sure i will never
see but wee feel that our customers will come back if we take care of them
<<<>>>
Have you heard anything along these lines of anything that might have
been 'helped along' to read like this?? If true it is amazing news,
considering, and it's going to be a heck of a chunk of change for
Bombadier.
Just thought you'd like to know!
Date: Fri, 09 Mar 2001
From: Bruce
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Johnson/Evinrude Excellent News
As you may have already heard, Bombardier has announced that they will
honor all warranties, one and two year, on all 2000 and 2001 outboards
that are out there in the field, sold and unsold. This apparently
leaves the owners of 1999 and prior product out of luck but it does
indicate the strong commitment that Bombardier is willing to make.
Today, we received a call from an old friend who was back at his desk at
200 Sea Horse Drive. Bill XXX called to let us know that he is now
employed by Bombardier and things look very good. The dealer hotline is
back up and running.
This has been a good week after a long wait for news. The lights are on
and someone is home!
Date: Fri, 9 Mar 2001
From: K
To: A
Subject: (no subject)
Maybe this thing isnt Over yet???? hmmmmm!
Brunswick Under Antitrust Probe for Outboard Marine Engines Bid
Washington, March 9
(Bloomberg) -- Brunswick Corp., the biggest maker of boat engines and
recreational watercraft, said federal antitrust regulators are probing its
unsuccessful attempt to buy Outboard Marine Corp.'s engine business.
Lake Forest, Illinois-based Brunswick lost to Canada's Bombardier Inc. last
month in the bidding for the Evinrude and Johnson engine brands owned by
Outboard Marine, which is in bankruptcy. Brunswick still walked away with
Outboard Marine's Princecraft Boats recreational craft, Brunswick said
yesterday.
The Federal Trade Commission is investigating Brunswick's losing bid for the
engine unit as a possible ``violation of U.S. antitrust laws,'' the company
disclosed in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing today. The FTC
notified the company last month, according to the 10-K annual filing.
``We were just notified of this,'' said Kathryn Chieger, a Brunswick vice
president. ``We are cooperating'' with the FTC. She declined further comment
on the case.
Officials at the FTC couldn't be reached for comment.
The latest probe is the FTC's second at Brunswick in recent years. The
antitrust regulator opened an investigation into the company's marketing of
stern-drive motors to boat makers and dealers in 1997.
The company has ended the practices in question ``for business reasons,'' and
last December it asked the FTC to close the investigation because a similar
case involving another firm resolved the legal questions at issue, today's
SEC filing said. ``We've made the request. We have not had a response,''
Chieger said.
Brunswick shares fell 29 cents to $22.56 today, though they've gained about
43 percent over the past year.
Date: Fri, 9 Mar 2001 21:00:56 EST
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Sold!
Hey Mr Wizard... It's official today.. Bombardier closed on the engine
division today! The service department will be live on the phones Monday
3/12...
(Please dont use my name or info, ...
Date: Sat, 10 Mar 2001
From: W.
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: 2001 Ficht technology
Dear Mr. Wizard:
I recently purchased a 2001 Evinrude Ficht 225 HP Rude Ram outboard.
I have approximately 30 hours on the motor and have not experienced any
problems. Have you heard of any potentially dangerous problems associated
with the 2001 Ficht technology? Have you heard of any mechanical problems
associated with the 2001 Ficht technology? Any information or documentation
that you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Date: Sun, 11 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Still skeptical on of outboards re-start
I'm still very skeptical about Bombardier re-starting outboard production.
It really doesn't make business sense. If we could sit in on some of the
internal meetings, my guess is we'd here things like...
A. We can sell the parts operation to Mercury and walk with a profit right
now.
B. Genmar will demand super low prices for outboards.. can we be profitable?
C. We have reduced confidence in the tradename. This will hurt sales volume.
C. Production volume will suffer; some former boat lines will use Mercs.
D. We could re-start the line, but it looks difficult with years of struggle.
E. We could fold now, walk with a profit and keep the fitche technology.
What makes sense is to call it quits now. But, people in responsible
positions don't always act responsibly.
Name withheld
email address withheld
Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Wizard Where Are You?
Wizard Where are you we all missed you.
Mr. Wizard reply: I was out of town at a trade show for another
industry in Indianapolis for a week. Even took a lap on the speedway.
Now the Wiz is Back!!
Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2001
From: Chris
To: Gary
Subject: RE: OMC's PRINCECRAFT
Saw a brief article in our local paper (Florida Today, Melbourne) that said
Genmar was selling Chris-Craft to a British company.
Wed Mar 14
Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2001
From: a
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier Johnson/Evinrude
Welcome back. I'll bet it was enjoyable catching up on all the negative
feedbacks. But why stop there, and why not take a shot.
I received a call on my answering machine from someone in technical
support. Got cut off half way through. Tried to call back and talk to
someone. I left a response and request on their answering machine and
received no calls back.
They still have a recording this date that states if you buy the engine,
it's without warranty.
They still require dealers to fax orders. OMNI is a limited and useless tool
right now. Wonder if their going to bill us starting the 12th for nothing more
than we've had for the last three months. I've been holding a batch order
for quite some time now, and will not order anything until they get my account
back on-line in good standing as it was in the past.
I need two engine's (1 government purchase) and still can't get the proper
responses. "People"
The opinion pole at boating-industry that pertains to rather or not people feel
that Bombardier can bring the products back up to snuff "Keeps Dropping"
on the Yes department.
All/Most of the big dealers have taken on Yamaha and/or Mercury either as
package only dealers or full line. Since everyone knows their minimum
requirements; Bombardier has a rough road to hoe. The poles could very
well prove accurate.
Bought enough oil to get started in the season anyhow "Mercury". That's all
the further I want to go. I'm tired just as the others and have had enough of
this S----.
Have a nice Day!
Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: No name or e:mail address, please
Any news on what is to become of the engine test facility in Stuart, FL?
Rumor has it that Genmar has taken over that, but it doesn't make sense
if Bombardier bought all the engine assets. Now that both Genmar and
Bombardier have "closed" on the sale, there should be alot more news
forthcoming.
Thanks for your input,
Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Evinrude and Johnson
Many write to you about how Bombardier cannot succeed. I have
been in business for 20 years and have worked for big business for
10 years. Small businesses have a difficult time overcoming obstacles.
Big business buys success. Any one who thinks that Bombardier
cannot promote and succeed with Evinrude and Johnson are either
ignorant or hoping.
Book it,
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier purchase
I have noticed a number of postings from the likes of xx above dated
sun march 11 that still seem intent upon creating problems for Ex OMC
now Bomb. Johnson/Evinrude dealers.I have talked to several key
Bombardier management folks and they Absolutely intend to rebuild the
brand names and build product. Because of the damage done to the
whole supply and manufacturing chain it will not happen overnight.
They are very excited about the aquisition and the company and
management is firmly committed to reestablishing the Evinrude/Johnson
outboards in the marketplace.
My dealership was one of the first to report problems on the older 97/98
Ficht product when it seemed everyone said it was great. We have had
no technology issues with the 2000/2001 Ficht product and are looking
forward to the strengths that Bombardier will bring in the form of better
mfg quality control and management.This should be the start of a much
brighter future for Evinrude/Johnson dealers.
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Kits
Can anyone tell me what a "strap retainer kit" is? I am not talking
about the "Upgrade kit" OMC announced last November. The strap retainer
kit probably went out in late 1999 or early 2000. What was it supposed
to accomplish" How and when were dealers notified? Is it OK to run my
2000, 200HP Ficht without it? Thanks,
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
From: w
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Wizard, nice to have you back. Mark
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
From: Patrick
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
By the time you actually get back to work, the omc situation will have been
resolved for quite some time. Old news like yours is a waste of valuable time.
Boating Industry Online is much more current.
So long...
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: warranty or the lack thereof
So, here we are. Fighting Bombardier for warranty on 99 engines. and
Begging Stratos and Javelin for warranty on all boats. These giants are
going to find out that Americans will fight until the death for what we
believe in. I will not accept no warranty on 99 engines. My customers
deserve better and I will work to accomplish this. Bombardier and
Genmar bought these fine names for pennies on a dollar and refuse to
do the smart thing and provide good news. The bad news that these
cheap bottom feeders are putting out now will cost them much money
later. They are listening to accountants and they are ignoring the human
element. I will bet anyone that they will both provide warranty accross
the board or regret it. Any takers?
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: ficht engine recalls/updates
mr. wizard, do you know of anyone or anyplace that would have access to a
list of recalls/updates concerning the ficht engines in general and the 2000,
200hp evinrude ficht in particular? i am in the process of purchasing a boat
with the above engine and would like to confirm that everything is up to date
especially the ficht fire issue. thanks for your time, jack
Mr. Wizard reply: The U.S. Coast Guard maintains a recreational boat recall
database. It only contains those recalls concerning safety issues. You can
view it at:
http://www.uscgboating.org/mf/mf_srchRecall.ASP
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
From: W
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bombardier / warranties
boating industry international has an article release from march 7
acknowledging bombardier covering warranties on 2000&01 johnson
and evinrude engines. along with the dealer we are purchasing a boat
from say's he has made contact with the new omc. he has also told me
that the people he is talking to are the original employees that he dealt
with when the old omc was around. he said he was shocked that he
was speaking to a former employe (omc) and they seemed to be going
back on line. as a dealer he has kept his confidence up through all the
b.s. that as taken place but never abandoned ship. and even sells
merc. and yamaha but to this day still says johnson &evinrude out
perform the competition and he won't stop selling omc. he and i together
have kept a little faith in the product and before the bid was even filed
he said bombardier was going to be the contender.he seems to have
been right on the money as far as everything he has predicted. so now
i'm not worried about the purchase we have made buying an omc product.
once again happy boating! hopefully bombardier is the knight in shining
armor, for gods sake omc can't take another thrashing like the one they
just went through. i hope all the real employees did not take the same
kind of thrashing the business did. thanks.
Thu Mar 15
Date: Thu, 15 Mar 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
I talked to the "new want to make everything better" omc today. I have
been waiting 2 months to see if they would honor the warr. that still remains
on my Blown Up 1999 FITCH only to hear the words "To Bad For You."
Not only is the warr. no longer good they even refused to help by selling me
parts at cost or even help with the labor.That is the Wrong way to start a
new relationship.
If this is the "new way" of doing things things they will never see another
red cent from me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Date: Thu, 15 Mar 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: 1999 FITCH
I was glad to read that others are as upset about the refusal to repair
1999 products that were still under warranty as I am. I am already
looking at a repair bill in the thousands to fix a motor that i bought in
good faith.
To the person that said he has been in the bussiness side for 30 years
and big company's will always make it, this is not the way to start the
relationship.
Mr. wizzard glad to have you back. Please let me know where my I can
post my dissappointment so that someone who gives a sh-- might see how
we really feel.
Date: Thu, 15 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Number one
Bombardier is a big strong company and can do it. They will apply
the brakes if they continue to refuse warranty on 1999 Evinrude
products. I exclude Johnson because they just haven't given us
any trouble. I have several 1999 Evinrude customers with blown
power heads etc.. They will not be happy with no coverage. Nor
will I. If I have to shoulder this alone, do you think that I will order
many Evinrudes?
Do you think that I am the only dealer in this predicament? Every
dealer in America has the same situation. Again, I say; they stole
the company so I fully expect them to share some of the bene's with
the consumer and the dealer. We want warranty. If they remain firm,
I recount any optimism with regards to their success. They will give
warranty on 1999 or the accountants will cost them more money than
they can offset. Do not count beans. Count customers.
Fri Mar 16
Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Mr. Wizard's comments of March 15
Amen to that, Mr. Wizard. If they didn't know what to do with it,
they shouldn't have bought it. I could buy lots of junk at a yard sale,
but if I can't see a plan for it in my future, it's a waste of time & money.
Perhaps they are checking the legalities of just ditching the whole
thing. They sure didn't pay much for it and only seem to really have an
interest in the Ficht technology. Would save them a bundle on the
current DFI arrangement they have.
RBBI Note: Letter is referring to Mr. Wizard's comment,
- "If I went out bought something for $50 million at an auction and still hadn't
figured out what to do with it 5 weeks later, Mrs. Wizard would kick my butt!"
Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Syracuse, IN. Plant
Has anybody heard what will become of the Syracuse plant-for sure???
Seem's like nobody's talking any-more! There's still some of us quite
interested to know, where things are going.
Some of us also have Hope, of working there again. Need to know what's
happening???
Mr. Wizard reply: The Syracuse Indiana Lowe plant is being closed and moved
to Lebanon.
Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2001
From: w
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Man, I thought my kids cried alot, everthing will be O.K. The two companies
that purchased this mess have many issues to untangle. I know time is of the
essence being a dealer also, but they are trying to resolve this correctly, unlike
the previous owners. Just my opinion.........
Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: reply to w
Yes, we are crying. We are a new dealership, we still can't get a real
person on the phone on the new "up and running" parts and warranty phone
lines, we still have an angry customer with a blown-up 99 Ficht who has been
slapped in the face with his warranty papers. We just signed on with OMC in
April of last year, confident that we chose the best brand to offer our
customers. Now we have $500 in the bank, two families facing joblessness and
bankruptcy, and not one word from the new big-brother organization that was
supposed to be our saviour. Give them time? We've given them nothing but
time, not even taking on another engine line like so many others, trying to
stay loyal. Now, no money, bad reputation with the customers, and can't get
parts or answers so we can make some money.
Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Lost Foam @ Spruce Pine
Dear Mr. Wizard. Thank you for all hard work covering the OMC debacle over
that last few months. Greatly appreciated. Do you or any former Lost Foam
folks from the Spruce Pine, NC plant have any idea what is going on down
here. Waukegan was not the only engine factory in the old OMC family.
Much thanks
Sat Mar 17
Date: Thu, 15 Mar 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
To all of you whinners.
OMC is dead!!! Doesn't Exist!!! Dead Don't Hear !!!
Evinrude / Johnson have a new father. Bombardier a # 1 company.. !!!
Date: Sat, 17 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: dealers
One dealer says that he is broke and needs help from the new owners.
The other dealer says give them time. The one who says that he has
waited and is going broke is the honest one. The other guy either
has other lines or is not a dealer to begin with. I am a dealer and I am
very unhappy with the rate and extent of help that we are getting.
I am certain that no warranty on Javelin and Stratos will not work. And,
I think that no warranty on new 99's and 99's that are sold and would
otherwise be in warranty will not work. Image is everything. No warranty
has never worked for a product, do you think that it will work now?
Date: Sat, 17 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bombardier
Just checked the financial news. Bombardier just signed two contracts to
build trains totally 637.7million combined. They purchased the OMC motor
group for approximately 62 million. That's less than 10% of their newest 2
contracts. They were getting DFI technology from Mercury before the OMC
breakup. Mercury tried to get OMC, but the FTC shut that down. Mercury
then went in the back door with Marcel DuBois and ended up with
Princecraft. Bombardier is now ruining the trust level of the consumer by
refusing to warranty 1999 Fichts. Starting to think that perhaps 2+2=4 here.
Date: Sat, 17 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
I bought a ranger boat from a dealer in Grandview, MO. My 1999 prize
possession is now all blown up. I have had 4 oil pumps Now a blown
motor !!!!!! My promise to OMC is I will never buy another product from
them and I will let everyone know my experience including the Attorney
General as well as my own attorney if that is what it comes to!!!!!! This
is the ficht 175. I will give OMC the chance to do me right,but the way it
is looking the only thing they are going to be doing to me is ....well I
shouldn't even say!!!!!
Mr. Wizard reply: Nobody is ever going to buy anything from
OMC again, they are no longer in business.
As to the warranties, yes it would seem that Bombardier would have
honored 99's considering the low ball price they paid for OMC. But
they were not required to warranty ANYTHING! They could have just
had another auction, liquidated plants and machinery and walked off
with the Ficht technology, tradenames and some money in their pocket.
I am certainly not standing up for their actions, but any warranty at all
should be appreciated.
It would seem to make much more sense to honor the warranties
and try to rapidly establish a good relationship with their dealers and
customers. They have chosen not to do this. That is their choice and
may be a signal of things to come.
OMC's greatest assets were their employees, dealers and customers.
Bombardier's actions are alienating all of them. Seems weird to me,
but they bought it and its their toy.
Ex- OMC employees, dealers and customers are just along for the train
ride, they are jumping off at every stop and few are getting on the train.
Mon Mar 19
Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2001
From: Phil
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
To all the "dealers" of OMC,
Didn't you Ever look at the OMC financials and wonder to yourself "Gee -
this might be bad"? I must tell you that I got hit as bad or worse than 99%
of you, but I absolutely knew the risks and we were doing our best to "get
out" before the end.
How can you expect Bombardier to honor the warranty of bad engines when
That is what put OMC under? Are you trying to drive them under too? What
would that help? As far as should Bombardier help by shipping parts at cost
- how would they know that the parts you are buying are for "warranty issues"
and not inventory for margin improvement. Maybe there is a case there, but
the tracking and management of a system like that would be very hard.
Just my thoughts.
Date: Sun, 18 Mar 2001
From: M
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Do you have any ideas as to why Genmar would not honor warranties for
2001Javelin/Stratos boats that are on dealer lots? Is their something that
Genmar knows that they are not discussing with the public and their dealers,
or is this a ploy by Jacobs to save money because he believes that dealers
will just roll over? I don't think this is wise of Jacobs, because he may lose
more than just dealers and Javelin/Stratos owners.
Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: toy
Bombardier and Genmar can make money with these investments the way
that they are going about it. However; they will not be major players
immediately . Genmar is big, but Stratos/Javelin will not be much . This
no warranty position will cool down the buyers. Bombardier refusing to
warranty the 98 and 99 engines will also do no good for dearler relationships
nor any owners of 99 or 98 product. Bombardier has the luxury of a captive
market when it comes to parts and they can whore out the product if need be.
Genmar will find out that many dealers will leave Stratos/Javelin as soon
as they cement the no warranty clause. The public will be bombarded
with dealers and owners of Javelin/Stratos boats who trash the product.
Irwin will close the plant and then he can sell more Rangers.
Discustipated,
Tues Mar 20
Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2001
From: Ryan
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
This is straight off of www.hydrasports.com You may want to add it
to your page....
Warranty Information: Genmar will reimburse Hydra-Sports dealers for
warranty expenses submitted under the terms of the applicable OMC limited
warranty both for boats in dealer inventory and those boats already in
customer hands. Each boat shipped from the Hydra-Sports factory after March
6, 2001, will carry a new boat limited warranty. For more information about
coverage for warranty repairs, contact your local authorized Hydra-Sports
dealer.
Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2001
From: Scott
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: another OMC Question
I have very much enjoyed your information. My question is basic.
In light of the recent decisions from the new owners regarding warranty,
and the issues involved with re-starting the supply chain, what will be
your best guess as to the overall effect on the marine business for this
year? As I see it, there are costal markets, middle America markets
and Southern markets that will be effected differently. As a Southeastern
dealer, I feel we will all be struggling to compete with the cheap product
the other dealers are having to dump. This will be compounded with
the return product coming out of bankrupt dealers. This is very sad.
I hope I am all wet, but your thoughts will be welcome.
Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
Bombardier is the new owner of Johnson and Evinrude.
Why they have to cover warranty in a product they haven' t manufacture???
Don't you think it is excellent they are been nice enough by covering 2000
and 2001???
They have been successful in all business, let them run the show. It is going
to be a good one!!
Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bad engine warranty
Bombardier bought the engines for pennies on a dollar. And the
warranty potential for the 99 engines is perhaps in the tens of millions
at most. Bombardier ain't going under . Also, companies spend
hundreds of millions every year for image. Bombardier could have been
the hero. Now, they will spend millions trying to convince people how
good they are. They could have just shown us!
Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Money
From XXX,
I think it's sad that all we reading about now is the warranties not being
fully covered or not at all. What about the investment the employee's made
for many years and the way they have been left out of this entire process.
No warranty for the rest of their life. Where is the government when people
really need help?? They have been as bad as OMC was in giving people
the run around Most of these employee's have never needed help and now
that they do they can't get it and don't know where to turn. Any idea's.
Date: 20 Mar 2001
From: M in Norway
To: wizard
Subject: New websites for Evinrude & Johnson outboards
Hi !
Just logged on to the www.omc-online.com site. Bombardier's set up a
new site for Evinrude & Johnson outboards, check out www.evinrude.com.
Looks good.
Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: docket number 404/www.ilnb.uscourts.gov
docket number 404 is a rather interesting read. it is being heard on 3/28.
basically it states they (OMC) want to take $367,000.00 out of the company
to pay off liability insurance coverage for current and past executives, and
board of director members till the year 2008. another example of how the
company (OMC) was run, protecting the executives at the expense of everything
and everyone else. it's ok not to pay dealer rebates, unpaid salary claims,
health care benefit claims, terminate pensions, but let's protect the executives.
it is another appalling example of greeed run riot at OMC..
pls do not use my name or e address.
Wed Mar 21
Date: Wed, 21 Mar 2001
From: Laurie
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: Evinrude and Johnson
Have a new website:
www.johnson.com
www.evinrude.com
Date: Wed, 21 Mar 2001
From: b
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: ficht fires?
In the omc news area I`m not sure really,there is mention of ficht fire
complaints,,as a dealer I am concerned that I haven`t heard about this.
What exactly is it and shouldn`t you have this info posted so we can
view it easily?
Mr. Wizard reply: We posted about 30 messages on it a few
weeks ago. Have not taken time to make it easier to view because
I tried to focus this site on OMC transition issues surrounding employees,
retirees, dealers, boaters, builders. The fire issue was there before the
transition and nothing technical has changed surrounding it. Plus,
I work two other jobs to keep this site going and feed Mrs. Wizard,
need to sleep sometime. Will try to pull some of the materials together
when I get some time.
Currently you can go to these two pages and use your browser toolbar
to search for the word "fire" and find the messages.
http://www.strengthtech.com/tempomc/feedbk.htm
http://www.strengthtech.com/tempomc/feedbk2b.htm
Fri Mar 23
Date: Thu, 22 Mar 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: What's up with Stellican?
Why do you think Stellican has chosen to flush this season's sales for Chris Craft
by not reopening the plant immediately? I've been told the plant has backorders
for the next 2 years on the newly introduced Roamer 40. I myself have a half built
Constellation 26 sitting on the assembly line. When I heard the new of a 'maybe' 90
day startup, I promptly cancelled the order. My dealer is now trying to sweat out a
deal on a model in inventory. My ecstatic praise of the new Chris' line is now silent
remorse.
Stellican must know of the burden they have placed on their dealerships by the
slow startup. Not to mentioned irate customers, cancelled orders, permanent loss
of seasoned/trained employees. They could have salvaged a good piece of this
season as Genmar did with their new divisions. Apparently selling boats is not a priority
for them.
What could be the motivation to go slow? Is that they really don't have enough
cash to startup the plant?
Date: Thu, 22 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: warranty on Stratos and Javelin
Stratos and Javelin just announced 5 year structural warranty and one year on
components on 2000 and 2001 new or sold boats. Genmar investigated and found
that the boats are sound . God Bless America.
Date: Thu, 22 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Life goes on
Mr. Wizard,
I understand they are recalling several office personel back at Stratos/Javelin in
Tennessee. I also understand that the ones they are recalling are the same people
who sunk the ship back in 1997. Many of the hourly people who really made things
happen are still sitting home waiting or if they are smart have found other jobs.
Rumor has it they may never acutally build boats again. Do you know the true facts?
I love the boats and building but not the old xxx lies and half truths. I have a
new job but long for the old hourly family.
Hourly in Tennessee
Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Warranty
When the dust settled, Genmar and Bombardier drew the line between 1999
and 2000. 1999 and older has no warranty. 2000,2001 and new will have
warranty. It is not what I hoped for. But, it is what we have. So let us pick up
the pieces and move forward. Some customers will be hurt along with dealers
stocking 1999 boats and motors. (Stratos and Javelin) boats will have warranty
on 2000 and newer. We have several engines and boats in stock that will
have no factory warranty. I will buy a policy and take the loss. The good news
is that the products are going to be up and running soon. Javelin and Stratos
will begin April 2,2001. The engines will begin in weeks. What this has done
to us is make us take on other engines and boats. We are more diverse.
Diversity training has worked.
Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2001
From: w
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Wizard, Just recieved news Genmar IS going to warranty 2000/2001
Stratos/Javelins for 5 years hull/ 1 year component. This is not rumor.
Thank God
Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2001
From: k
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
what do think bomb. will do .open the the plants in the usa or move the
manufacturing to canada.
Mr. Wizard reply: eh?
Mon Mar 26
Date: Mon, 26 Mar 2001
From: X
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Recall
Just for the record Mr. Wizard, today's recall announcement from
Bombardier amply demonstrates why I wanted to keep the Ficht
fire/explosion problem alive on this board. Hats off to Bombardier for
making this one of their first official acts.
Tues Mar 27
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: ficht fires
As a former OMC dealer I can honestly say that I am sick and tired of Ficht
fire complaints! The only time we had a problem like this was after the first
year of Ficht introduction. From 1998 on up there were no such problems at
our dealership! As a dealer I can also say that we went above and beyond the
call of duty when it came to warranty problems, even as far as warranting
motors not purchased from us and even problems that where obviously the
owners fault! In our day and age people have come accustomed to getting
something for nothing and these cases are no exception. The only problems
assoiciated with Ficht after 1998 were the well documented problems with the
introduction of the 60 degree motors which was solved by the remapping of the
fuel and spark curve and the deflector. I have no sympathy for all you
whiners still expecting something for nothing! As a business person and and
avid boater for over 30 years I've come to realize that people like you will
never be pleased even if the work performed is for no charge. I am not
standing high on a throne, most of what OMC got they deserved however these
complaints are mostly unfounded and nothing more than propaganda. If you have
a case then document and take them to the U.S. government! NUFF SAID
Mr. Wizard reply: Many have been hung out to dry during the OMC crisis
and emotions are running deep. Please try to keep it civil and and offer
CONSTRUCTIVE criticisms when you think something is wrong.
Thanks
Wiz
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: 2001 ficht solutions
I have been told from many sources that the fire problems associated
with the 1999 and 2000, 200 and 225HP Ficht engines have all been
resolved in the 2001 models. Can anyone tell me what the full list of
changes was and what each was intended to accomplish? I know this is a
big order, but given the circumstances this would be valuable info for
both buyers and sellers. Thanks.
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: W
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re-Hires
Mr Wizard;
Have you heard anything about the re-hiring of ex-OMC employees?
I have heard rumors regarding the hiring of most ex-employees by the
end of the week. Do you have any info on this rumor or is simply
that?(a rumor) I was one of the first 1000 to be let go and have not
heard anything.
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
As you state in your comments..."emotions run high". The sad part of the
letter from the "former" OMC dealer is that he thinks the customers are
taking advantage of the companies. While we are not an OMC (engine)
dealer it is sad to see any powerhead failure in a 2-5 year old motor of
any make or model. When consumers are paying $10-$12,000 for an
outboard and can't expect years and years of good service without a
major repair there is something sadly wrong with our industry. Numbers
prove we have lost people to all other types of activity from golf to
walking. While the OMC situation is going to add numbers to the amount
of people we are losing in the industry it is certainly not Bombardier's
fault about the existing problems with the OMC engines in the field.
The ironic thing in this whole debacle is that the NMMA has sat on
the side lines and not issued one statement or press release that
would help ease some tension.....they just keep on buying boat shows
and taking the cream off the top. All of us in this industry better wake
up and remember who got us here....Mr. Joe Consumer
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Fairplay
Bombardier expects us to pay our parts bill that we owed to OMC.
They however, will not pay rebates,warranty on 99 and 98 engines
etc. Guess what? They will get their way because we must continue
to do business. However; I will sell more and more Merc and Yamaha
engines and less and less Johnson and Evinrude.
You have not heard the last of this logic. Any dealer who is happy
with the current state of affairs is easy. Bombardier could have been
smarter and I would not be selling and stocking so many other engines.
Oh well!
Wed Mar 28
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From:J
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: omc
After all the OMC commotion settles (if ever) you ought to do some stories on
the NMMA (if politically correct for you) and their boat show history. They
have taken two Midwest shows to all time lows in attendance. That's another
story though...keep up your good work. You have a very easy site to read.
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Read the recall!
Hey S 3/27 , For a guy who pretends to know something, you really dont
have a clue. Ask a grown-up to read the Bombardier recall to you, paying
special attention to the part about not even using these engines. Next,
re-read your own message and get back to us.
Seriously S, the situation is too dangerous for you to be saying "no
problem" when you really are unaware of the facts.
Mr. Wizard reply: Glad to see you took yesterday's encouragement to
make criticisms in a contructive manner !
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: Josie
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Syracuse In. Plant
Anything on when, or if, they plan on re-hiring former employee's????? .
I know it will take time, but it would certainly be Nice to know, if when
all is said and done, we had a JOB to look forward to.
Thank's for any info., Mr Wizard!
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
From: a
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Johnson/Evinrude"Bombardier"
Unfortunately, most dealers are full of nothing but disbelief's and
dissatisfactions. This has been a very trying period for all concerned.
Most dealers talk a lot of B.S., and have also possibly made bad
financial decisions during this period of time.
Bombardier has their right to decide who the dealers are. Big and
small, we may all be in for a surprise.
Sales are projected to be down this year as it is. Taking on Mercury
and/or Yamaha won't change the year end figures. Each manufacturer
sets their minimum requirements. Who's going to be stuck with the bag
at the end of the season?
The real interesting news won't be heard i.e. How many dealers are
financially put out of business because of OMC's actions, and how
many dealers end in bankruptcy themselves after making bad decisions
this year.
I believe at this point in time that all outboard manufacturers have
suffered financially while trying to meet or exceed upcoming EPA standards.
I also believe that every outboard in the market place has its shortcomings.
They just aren't anounced, and the company's security posture is in place.
Those that are limited in knowledge will bash the only thing that's stuck
in front of their nose, and you just happen to be their outlet.
It does make for good reading. Keep up the good work!
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Where did they go?
Hi Wizard,
Where did the OMC top management go or are they still around collecting
their huge severance packages? Just would like to keep tabs on them to
make sure I never work for a company where they might end up.
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001
From: Judith
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Pension Plan
Do you have any information on this new decision by OMC to not have
PBGC take over the pension plan but rather to explore arrangements
with private insurers?
The plan is underfunded now. Does this mean they now still have control
of the plan and can further decrease the fund? The PBGC says that OMC's
Board of Directors has voted to amend the pension plan to eliminate certain
benefits. Is that legal considering they have a contract with their employees
as to what they would receive? Do you have any information as to what
benefits are being eliminated?
I'd appreciate any information you may have. As a former employee who is
counting on the OMC pension as a large part of my retirement income in the
next few years, I'm obviously very concerned.
Thanks for any information you can offer.
Mr Wizard reply: There is a phone number at the bottom of the
PBGC press release for assistance.
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001
From: P
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Just my two cents
What everybody keeps forgetting is OMC is Gone, Bombardier now
owns J/E and nowhere in the court documents did it say they had
to honor any warranty's. They did however decide to honor 2000-
2001 warranty's. They could have easily walked off with the
technology and never produced another Motor or part. They bought
a company that was bankrupt, they need to figure out why this
company went bankrupt and turn it around into a profitable
company. And yes we are losing some business to the black motors
as well as Yamaha, but some times in business you must take a few
steps back to get a good look at things before you can go forward.
I hear a lot of people out here say OMC rushed the ficht on the
market without proper time for testing, Maybe that's true, so why
criticize a company who has no experience in the marine industry
for taking there time to make sure this whole thing is done right
before rushing into another fiasco.
Do we want Johnson and Evinrude to survive? Of course we do, in
order to survive it must be better than it ever was before. All
you people who were involved before know how mistakes were made,
Bombardier wasn't there, it's going to take time to make sure the
same mistakes aren't made again. Yeah' we have all lost sales and
jobs over this and I feel real bad for the customers who are out
there warranty. I do not know all the answers but my money says
in two years time we will see a strong come back of the Johnson,
Evinrude name, and everyone will be proud of the products they
are building and the dealers will be able to stand strong against
Mercury and Yamaha.
I know it hurts now and there is no short term answers, But we
all must quit pointing the finger at one another and try and work
towards making Bombardier a good reputable company in the eye of
the consumer. If you don't do this you are hurting everyone's
chances for recovery, The employees and the dealers.
Mon Apr 2
Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Post-Ch 11
Now that Genmar and Bombardier have purchased "essentially all" of the OMC
assets and avoided most of the OMC liabilities, does the remaining shell of
OMC file for Chapter 7 and dispose of their remaining assets? Are these
monies then paid on some pro-rata basis to the poor folks who got stiffed in
the process?? Maybe some of your readers can shed some info.
Thanks,
Date: Fri, 30 Mar 2001
From: XX
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: Calhoun update
I called an old friend still at the Calhoun plant who is still employed
there by the new owners. The first thing was the BMCA greeting. How strange.
Our conversation focused on what's happening with the plant and any start up
news. They were requested to put a plan together for building 250 60 degree
Ficht and 150 Thunder Ficht a day. The timing would be around June this
year. Nothing else is in planning for the other familes. The plant continues
to ship parts out for P&A. Some raw parts are down to zero stock on hand.
The feeling is that some product will be built for a short time then moved.
There was also some speculation that Merc. may be very interested in buying
the Calhoun plant. Bom is also underway getting state and federal permits.
One last bit of news, Bom has purchased the Hong Kong operation for 20
million.
Date: Sat, 31 Mar 2001
From: CC
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Chris Craft
Hey wiz,
Local newspaper says Chris Craft to start up limited production next
week. Also that Four Winns is staying in Cadilac after receiving huge $$ tax
breaks and incentives to stay. ( long live the ghost of john winn )
By the way, what is vectorworks part in all this? Are they holding the
tooling to the roamer? What are they doing for Donzi? How is Donzi fairing
from all this?
Sign me cc
Date: Sat, 17 Mar 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
I have a 1999 FICHT 150 H.P. motor. Last year the fuel pump, lower unit
went out. Now my motor will not start when its below 40 degrees. The computer
is out. . But to fix it Bombardier said that they will not service 1999 FICHT
computers. Now another company that has nothing to do with Bombardier
will fix my computer for only 572.00 that was to be covered on warranty until
July 2001. I own a business and its alot easier to keep an old customer than
having to find new ones .
Mr. Wizard reply: May sound a little harsh, but your engine was actually
warrantied till OMC went bankrupt or July 2001 which ever came first.
Bankruptcy came first and you are out in the cold. Plus, Bombardier cant
keep you as an old customer. You did not buy it from them.
It seems like they could have structured something for the 99s, but they
chose not too. Was totally up to them. Time will tell how it plays out.
I am sympathetic to your situation and the thousands of others in the same fix.
You got burnt. But, you need to remember you were burnt by the old-OMC,
not by Bombardier.
Wed Apr 4
Date: Tue, 3 Apr 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
Mr. Wizard, you are a very fair person...as you said, Bombardier never sold
engines to anyone!!! Why they have to cover 1998 and 1999 products???
If any of you is upset because Bombardier will not cover warranty on your
engine, well it is your decision to buy a different brand...Bombardier has
nothing to do with this situation...thanks to them many families are bringing
bread to their tables.
Let Bombardier Work!!!
Some of You Should Be Grateful That They Are Taking Care of 2000 and
2001 product.......by the way....they don't have to.
Date: Wed, 4 Apr 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: need info on omc injectors
I have read all of the email since you started the episodes.
How can i located info on OMC heads with 800 elevation for fire boats which
use Hale/OMC power units. we have 5 fireboats and understand that we have
to revise the injectors which had sealevel units.
Mr. Wizard comment: If someone can help this gentleman, please drop
me a note and I will forward the info to him.
Thurs Apr 5
Date: Wed, 4 Apr 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Spruce Pine Plant
I have heared nothing about this plant. Are there any plans that you
have head?
The old OMC was run on what was called the Buddy System! Is this
still going to be the way things are run or will they send there own
P.R person to do the rehire?
My personal felling is that if they allow some Buddy Person to do the
recall they will not get good workers or the people with the know how
they will only get the Buddy System People
Please pass this on to the new owners because as a 15.5 year non
buddy I seen the system and how it works.!!!
Date: Thu, 5 Apr 2001
From: X
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: 1999 ficht
have found your web page extremely helpful in the omc fiasco
have a 1999 omc 175 ficht bad power head
ordered from omc 12/00(at this time still under warranty)
bombardier only honoring warranty for 2000 & 2001 model
do i have a prayer of getting a power head under the warranty
Mr. Wizard reply: Bombardier warranty division
was based on model year, not purchase date. Have heard
from several recently buying 99 model year engines in new
boats. You are in the same boat with them,
up the creek without a paddle.
Mon Apr 9
Date: Sun, 8 Apr 2001
From: H
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier of Spruce Pine/Burnsville
Hello a