Mr. Wizard OMC archived feedback back part 2
Mr. Wizard OMC Article
Archived Feedback
Part 2B
Jan 8 through Feb 18, 2001 |
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This page archives reader feedback received between Jan 8 and Feb 18.
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Reader Comments
Mon Jan 8
Date: Sat, 6 Jan 2001
From: Doug
To: Gary
Subject: OMC
I have spent the last 4 hours reading in the rec.boats newsgroup and the
information on your website concerning the possible demise of OMC.
Let me say this first, this whole situation is in my view very tragic, and I,
just like a lot of other people wish it wasn't so.
At the place that I am employed at, I see also that we are very top heavy
with a lot of managers that do not know what they are doing either. But I
just take orders and do my job.
I do have a point that is worth pondering though. Since OMC is a United
States Corporation, (as far as I know), and it has been around for a very
long time. I don't see why the government could not step in and loan OMC
money to get back on their feet and return to the former status that they
once held, just as the U.S. Government did for Chrysler so many years ago.
I personally own a few OMC products that still run in my little collection of
antique outboards, and think that they are a fine piece of machinery.
Maybe you could put up a poll on your site about the government getting
involved in something like this.
P.S. Please do not use my e-mail address.
RBBI Comment: At the time of the Chrysler situation, the automobile industry
was king and a major driver of the American economy. Chrysler was a zillion
times larger than OMC. The ripple effect from Chrysler and their suppliers
would have a major effect on the entire American economy. Now, the attitude
of the government is much different, plus if they were to elect to bail out
a firm, there are currently many larger contenders at the present (TWA,
Wards, etc).
Date: Sun, 7 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Mr. Wizard:
I understand that the bankruptcy court is deciding on the way in which OMC
will sell, narrowing it down to three ways: (1) sell OMC as one complete unit;
(2) sell off the boat companies and leave the engine division in tact; or
(3) breaking up the engine division as well and selling off Evinrude, Johnson, Ficht
technology, parts department, etc. #3 would be a nightmare for the dealers.
What, in your opinion, is the possibility of #3 happening?
Mr.Wizard Comment: If current ownership goes for absolute greed,
would expect #3 because when firms want a piece, they do not have to
justify their bid against the prior total sales price of OMC and its current
problems. One buyer would have a very hard time giving more than $200
mil for the entire package. If they did, their stockholders and board members
would string them up.
But, no prior OMC sale yardstick exists for board members to compare the
single pieces against. Plus you have auction fever acting over many parcels
instead of just one. This is good for the seller.
Ground pollution issues may prevent anyone from wanting some locations.
Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2000
From: North West Force
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: "job" opportunity
Businesss for sale below is a Western Montana Marine Dealership.
I'm not sure this is something you would post, but we may be able to help at least
one OMC employee. Visit our site and see if this might fit in your site somewhere.
www.marinebusiness.bizland.com
Thanks for your time,
Date: Sun, 7 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Houston Boat Show
Dear Mr. Wizard,
The Houston Boat show featured many OMC Products and rumor has it that they sold.
What do Texan's know that the rest of us need to know?
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: P
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Roger Fix
Thanks for the link to Boating Industry International article with Roger Fix.
I was an OMC employee at the corporate office and that's the first time I've
ever seen the man. Hardly anyone ever seen the guy, he was never around! I
guess it's easier to let people go if you don't have to look at them..
Everyone at OMC knows this guy came in as the hired gun to do the dirty work
and like all the other rich CEOs we've had, he will walk away with millions..
That big salary could have paid a lot of severance pay to the people who gave
all they could to the company only to be left out in the cold right before
Christmas.. One other thing, if they think they can fire the company right
back up with the skeleton crew they have, it will just prove to be another
one of their hair brain decisions....
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001 19:55:49 +1100
From: Andrew
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Latest Guff
what is the differance between OMC and CHYRSLER outboards
you can still buy parts for chyrsler
RBBI Comment: We strongly believe you will be able to buy most
OMC service parts as well, even if only through 3rd party vendors.
We will be posting information later today on a major 3rd party
access tool for dealer use in locating OMC parts.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Tom
To: wizzard@virtualpet.com
Subject: reply to OMC customer
Dear Mr. Wizzard,
To the OMC customer that just E-mailed in, EVERY dealer in
the country is WELL aware of his situation, and I am sure they will
make every effort to keep their customers afloat. Every dealerhip
has engines and boats out their that they now must look their
customers in the eyes, and explain to them why, at that moment
they do not have any warranty. Does this mean their dealer won't
help them? The answer in 99 percent of the cases is a resounding
"NO". At our small dealership, we know every customer that walks
through the door, the vast majority are friends. We will do
everything possible to help these people, and I am sure most
dealers will do the same. Understand though, without parts
availibility, and some financial assistance from the customer, all of
the best intentions in the world will be for naught.
If you think this is a losing proposition for the customer, I'll
switch with you any day. You have one boat to worry about, I've
got 15. You have one warranty problem, I could have "loads".
You talk to me about your problems, I have the same conversation
many many time per week. So if you think you're out in the cold,
we as dealers are "FREEZING".
Please put blame where blame is due. Most dealers I know
work very hard to keep their customers happy, in a tough, short
seasoned business. If you have any releationship with your
dealership, they should be the last people you should dump on.
They'll be there (hopefully, if we can survive this) when OMC
isn't.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: C
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Engine Group
I have been tracking the OMC Ch 11 via your web site. Good job and
good service. Question: I have not seen any info concerning Johnson/
Evinrude? The were known as NAEO (North American Engine Ops), but
Fix changed the name to Johnson/Evinrude Outboards, which was a wholly
owned subsidiary of OMC. All of the Ch 11 motions appear to pertain only
to the Boat Groups?? Any info would be appreciated.
Thanks, Mike
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Jeff
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Benefits question
I am a (former) OMC employee. I was participating in their tuition reimbursement
program, while attending job-related schooling. I have a copy of the agreement,
signed by the appropriate HR folks. I am halfway through the courses. Obviously
this will not be paid as agreed, and I am out about $2000.
Could you point me to some resources that would help me possibly recover this
expense? How could I start legal action if possible?
Thanks!
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Tom
To: wizzard@virtualpet.com
Subject: NY Boat Show
Does anyone know what is going to go on at the NY show? OMC had a booth,
1/2 the product had an OMC tie either by its engine, boat or both. Should
be interesting. Also, how can many of these dealers afford the price of the
show with on co-op, and little opportunity to sell product with no warranty.
Sounds like it will be a funeral, not a show. Anyone else with some thoughts?
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Sun
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: What about the petition for bonus payout for transition team leaders
No severance, no vacation, nothing for x-employees and they have the nerve to \
petition the court for a bonus for Romano, Rusk, Merlot, Wainscott and many
others. Check this out at the bankruptcy site.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: charles
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc buy out
I heard that bidding has started on omc.could you tell me if some is close to
buying omc in burnsville.
Date: Thu, 4 Jan 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Dear Mr. Wizard I found the article on your website written about how upset
Irwin Jacobs is at the fact that OMC really pulled a fast one on the industries
dealers. What I find ironic is the fact he did just about the same exact thing
when he closed down his cajun boat factory in Winnsboro LA. Believe me
he did not offer to buy back any of the product I had on my show room floor.
Its true what comes around goes around!! Keep up the good work!!!
Dan
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: M
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: petition to court for bonus payout
This in response to note on your site from "sun" on Jan.8 Not sure myself
what is happening with this issue but it sounds like from this note and
another I saw on another site that the good folks who are staying on are not
doing this dirty work for their regular paycheck. Personally, I think a
regular paycheck should be sufficient in light of the fact that sooo many of
their co-workers have no work. However, if Soros wants to reward the folks
who did the layoffs and those who facilitated them then that is his right.
Judge should insist that all creditors be fully satisfied and 85% of former
employees be working somewhere before anyone profits from this in any way.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Hello,
I used to work at OMC in the Production Development Center. I was
wondering if you knew what they were going to do about the motors that
they had left there? Are they going to auction them off to the public
or is it up to the courts?
Tues Jan 9
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC products
I have been reading all the posts and notices about the demise of OMC
for several days now . the treatment of dealers and employees bothers
me extremely . but another thing comes to mind also . where did all
those great OMC motors go ?? we all know that mercury was a veritable
latecomer to the outboard industry , only starting in the 40's . while
seahorse outboards were already dominating the lakes and rivers , as
well as Elto and a few other early OMC brands . lawn boy has always
been a good mower , and the evinrude 18HP from 1957-1973 was almost
indestructible . something went wrong somewhere . and it is not just the
fact that OMC did not do as much R&D as Brunswick did . mercury marine
had innovations such as through-hub exhaust long before OMC ever
implemented it . but then again , it took mercury several years to come
up with a full shift outboard . I really saw a lot of screwups by both
companies with their outboards in the late 60's and early 70's . what a
nightmare was the race to create the perfect electronic ignition!!
sometimes we still have to deal with both brands of literal vacuum
technology that they both used in those days . how does a company
that has been around so long , sit lax back on it's heels and do
no real expanding for the last 20 years . it seems to me , that maybe
some of the wrong people had too much control inside OMC . maybe
we ought to check some of the executive pockets to seewhat we find .
mercury marine has always been known at least in the last 10 years to
be hard to deal with. people want to talk about no warranties on new
OMC motors , which is rotten I agree. but I have mercury engines that
are barely 2 years old sitting in my shop with cylinder sleeves that slid
right down into the crankshaft and trashed the motor . mercury did not
cover those on warranty. true , a couple were older than warranty age ,
but who in the world wants an outboard motor that only lasts for 2-4
years?? seems to me that with Brunswick being the frontrunner in the
industry , not to mention being the largest benefactor in OMC's closing ,
that the average boating Joe may have to start dealing with a substandard
product as well as a huge insensitive company with major control over
the entire boating industry . with one of Brunswick's biggest competitors
gone , they can almost do what they want and the rest of us have to
swallow it , product wise . they have already done it with the force line
of outboards. anybody who has any sense knows that Brunswick bought
out Chrysler marine just to close it down . isn't it obvious ? they produce
enough motors under the force name to pay for their initial outlay then they
can discontinue the line and walk away from it laughing the whole way .
everyone knows the force outboards are extremely undependable and
a nightmare to the average boater every marine repair facility has a pile
of them . tell me that with all of Brunswick's R&D money they could not
have redesigned that thing just a little better . they made them affordable
and that was about all . one more question . how much OMC stock did
Brunswick own?? under their name , or any other . I have a few merc
products in my shop , some of the older ones, those were good motors .
but what lies ahead now that they will be king?? B.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bypass OMC
Your article on OMC's lack of placement help is typical of their attitude In
helping their employees. The employees of any company is the most
important asset and should be treated as such. OMC has always taken
it's employees for granted so this is no different.
I would love to see any and all companies interested in ex-OMC talent to
contact the North Carolina Employment Security Commission. This way they
will have access all of the laid off workers. I know, the attitude that the
employees have at this time is, that they would love to find a job with
someone so that if OMC does come back on line they can tell them to kiss
their NO THANKS.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC communications
Just recieved in the snail mail today 1/09/01 a very nice letter from the
Heritage Credit Union dated 12/29/00. Seeing as how it will be three weeks
tomorrow since OMC unceremoniously dumped us in the street, I find it
comforting that the first and only piece of mail since then, albiet from an
affiliate of OMC, would take the time to write a few words of encouragement
and comfort. I guess those decades of service have paid off after all. Thank
you Heritage, your people are a class act. (Please post but shield my
identity) Thank you,
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Check the bankruptcy filings. The law firm that is handling the filing has
billed and collected $450,000 for work from mid-Nov. to the Dec. 22 filing
with another $100,000 estimated in work that was NOT yet billed. That is
$550,000 for just over one-months work. Hourly fees from $450 to $670/hour.
Incredible.
Please don't post my email adddress.
Thanks.
Mr Wizard Comment: That's why I suggested selling them on ebay.
Date: Tue 9 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: A note of caution
After 30 years as an OMC dealer, we are finding that our customers can
be made to understand what is happening and how we will, as always,
take care of them. They trust us.
Our biggest problem are other OMC dealers who are shooting themselves
in the foot by panicking in front of their employees and customers. We
are getting consumer feedback that indicates dealers are doing more
damage to themselves, their future and the industry in general by being
negative on all aspects of OMC.
Fact of the matter is OMC makes terrific products...and if you don't
believe it then you should never have been an OMC dealer. And, you
should never have received all those special discounts "under the table"
that even a 30 year dealer didn't get to take advantage of.
There is no doubt that all OMC dealers are sitting on their highest
inventory levels ever. We are sitting on close to $2.0 million in OMC
boats and motors. We are concerned, but not panicking. Fact of the
matter is, this is a cash flow business, not a particularly profitable
business, so you better love what you are doing. We are reassuring to
our customers and we are, in fact, consummating OMC boat and motor
sales as I write. Will our business fail if the right things don't happen
soon?...you betcha...but, again, we have to stay positive for our own
sake, that of our employees and that of our loyal customers.
We have to mind our own store...our own business...and keep our
heads above water. Yes...this whole process stinks. Yes...we voted
for Pensky in 1997 but the greedier shareholders went for the money
and not the substance. Yes, OMC had probably made more failed
CEO's millionaires than I care to think about. Yes, we have all been
here before...maybe not chapter 11, but certainly as various aspects
got sold. We have all had delayed warranty payments, rebates, etc.
The good news is that perhaps this shake-up (monumental though it
may be) will weed out the whiners from the dealer side and from the
company side. And, if we are real lucky, we may find some truly
excellent new employees for sales and service who choose not to
work with new owners again.
Let us get to work and not let our hard earned, heavily invested
dollars go to total waste.
God bless all of the employees who have given so much and gotten
so little in return. And, God bless dealerships nationwide who decide
to hang tough and make things work.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Immediate Need
30 year OMC dealer has immediate need for part/service manager. Computer
literate, customer friendly, OMC parts knowledgeable. Paid vacation, holidays
and insurance after 90 days. Contact Larry or Karen a 561-965-9410;
fax particulars to 561-965-9441, and get ready to move to SE Florida!
30 year OMC dealer has immediate need for OMC experienced sales person.
HydraSports, Johnson and Evinrude. Paid vacation, holidays, and insurance
after 90 days. Contact Larry or Karen at 561-965-9410; fax particulars to
561-965-9441 and get ready to move to SE Florida! Boat show season is here!
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: O.M.C.
I would like to know what's wrong with this picture ?. Myself and my
wife both worked for O.M.C. On Dec. 6th. My wife had major surgery for
a life threatening illness. After 5 weeks ,she finely got one sick pay
check and one more after that.As of then ,she has recieved none. After
calling the insurance co. we find out that check's were issued on Dec.
27, and Jan. 3. We now find out that they are not releasing them at
O.M.C. Since she is on sick leave and not released from her doctor yet
she cannot apply for unemployment. This has caused financel
and stress problem's for our family that's uncalled for as this amount
of money wouldn't even buy a dinner for these Low-Life! Executive's.
What's wrong with a Goverment that give's there blessing to these
billionaire's at the exspence of hard working American Citizen's and tax
payer's.O.M.C. went bankrupt because of incompetent managment and bad
judgement, not the workers. I agree with one of your other letters,
O.M.C. can kiss my-NO THANK YOU !!!!
Please do not print my e-mail no
or name. Thank You.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From:T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Just a response for M...
Just for the record, in your email you stated.. "I saw on another site that
the good folks who are staying on are not doing this dirty work for their
regular paycheck"...
That may be true for the higher ups but as a member of the so called
transition team, please don't think the rest of us are doing any dirty work
or that we're getting anything extra... While we're there, we're trying to
keep what little we can up and running so that hopefully someone decent
will buy the place and call back most of our fellow employees. Though we
are grateful to have a check coming in, it's still very sad to work in these
almost empty buildings and know what has happened to so many of our
friends. Here was a company that at one time was number one in market
share, largest marine dealer network in the country and made a good
product that was run into the ground by mismanagement, not by the
employees. And by the way, most of us are looking for jobs too, Believe
me, if a good job offer comes along, we're outta here!
Wed Jan 10
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Musical chair analogy
Wizard,
I liked your musical chair analogy and I believe the courts should make
sure that the X employee's should get the first chair. The courts should
enforce the WARN ACT and make sure that Soros losses are not cut at
the expense of the X employees. As far as the people (not really human
beings) still there if they get any more than their regular salaries it would
be just another "Criminal" act on behalf of Soros and Fix. We all know
their priority is to screw everyone they can and the easy ones twice to
enhance their own severance packages. I hope everyone who reads this
passes the word along to help make it as difficult as possible for these
hencemen Rusk, Meurlot, Fix to sleep at night. Have you ever wondered
what these type of creatures people are going to say when their final
judgement is at hand?????????
Enough for now.
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: Jeff
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
mr wizard what do you think will happen to the boat side of the company
i currently own a lowe boat
that is presently down at the factory waiting for warranty work do you
think if someone was to come in and buy the company would it be in there
best interest to honor existing warranty or not ?
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: Brian
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc ficth engines
i have just been told that my warranties will not be honored, that the
13k+ i have on the back of my boat that doesn't run is now a trotline
weight. This does not help an already bad situation.
Also, what we are finding out is that the engines will have piston lose
at or about 105 hrs due to injector failure. Do you have any insight
into this or can find out from other owners if they are having the same
problem? I personally know of five engines in my dealers shop that have
failed recently due to the same problem, ranging from 150 to 225hp. It
looks like a bailout to keep from honoring warrenties on something they
know will fail.
I hope i am wrong, but I run the computer checks on these engines and
have the print outs to back up what i have found.
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: Norman
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Extended warranty
My heart goes out to the employees of OMC and its divisions who are
suffering through the worst case scenario as far as employment goes.
I am the proud owner of a 1998 Evinrude Ficht. I love my motor but it
does not love me. I have had to replace two power heads since its
purchase. I must say that OMC stood behind their poduct and replaced
the powerheads. My question to anyone who may know is-What about the
extended warranty I purchased for $1940 .Will a future purchaser of the
company honor this ? Full of hope and apprehension.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: b
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Any thoughts for those of us that bought Boats and Engines expecting a
Warranty, What is the status of their honoring the Warranties
RBBI Boater Warranty Comments
We are starting to field a lot of end user warranty
questions today and will respond here to all of them.
First we are not qualified to offer any professional advice in this
area, but here are our thoughts.
Our understanding is OMC has told dealers they will no
longer accept any warranty claims
Warranty issues remain to be sorted out by the courts,
dealers, suppliers and any new OMC division owners.
I suspect warranty is kaput unless courts force those involved
in sale of OLD OMC to somehow put money in a fund for NEW OMC
warranty coverage OR new owners of the specific division over your
product decide to go ahead and include future warranty costs as part
of their basic package in deciding to purchase the company . If they
are willing to pay $50 million for the specific division building your
product, they only bid $42 million and sit the other $8 million aside
for covering warranty of existing units after their purchase. These
may not be the correct numbers, but they illustrate the concept.
Different types of warranty may be handled differently (the
basic warranty package vs any special extra or extended
warranty you bought at time of purchase.
Actual coverage provided in the future might be fractional:
1. Dealers or new owners may give some break on labor or parts
2. Warranty time length might be shortened
3. Warranty may only cover very major items and not smaller failures
4. Your boat might be warrantied, but not the drive or vice versa
5. Some components and subsystems may still be warrantied by the supplier
I am not sure how this has been handled in similar situations in
the past and not had time to check up on it yet.
Dealers are currently very concerned about possibly not being
re-imbursed for warranty expenses already incurred by them.
Bottom line, it all remains to yet be sorted out
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Warranty
The key to the interim period of who owns Johnson/Evinrude would be
greatly improved if we could get the courts to order that warranty would
be paid to customers and dealers. We know that in time we will have a
better situation, but for now we cannot function without warranty. How
do you sell without warranty and how do you repair previously sold product
without warranty support? It seems that everyone is being considered
except the customers and the dealers.
Sour grapes,
Dealers
P.S. Dealers are meeting and we ain't happy
We had a request to post this sentence:
Please let everyone know that everyone "still there" on the transition team
is not part of the Soros clan.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Brian
To: Gary Polson
Subject: Re: omc ficth engines
Thank you for your reply, will keep watch on your website for news. I
feel like you that probably we are sol, but what bothers me, my dealer
and other owners is if the ficht engines will even be in the future,ie
new engines and technology, parts for the engines that are a year old or
less. When you get some insight, please let me know. Thanks so much for
your time and patience in this issue.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Fiesta
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Employment Ops.
Fiesta Marine Products, Inc. Manufacturer of Fiesta pontoon boats and Sunray
Mini Pontoon boats has engineering and production supervision openings. Back
ground in aluminum fabrication is necessary. Located in Tampa Bay Florida.
visit our web site at www.fiestaboats.com or
call Carl Morahan at 727 856 6900
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Lebanon, Mo. plant
You know I haven't heard OMC Lebanon plant mentioned. Well in case anyone
would like to know, everyone is madder than h!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now to top it off, the
"people" in Waukegan, after informing the unemployment that their employees
would indeed recieve $400.00 for the week ending 12-30-00. However, they
never bothered to inform them the change in plans. Now unemployment is denying
benefits for that week, under appeal. When ask, the only reply given from Lebanon
office was "someone" in Waukegan was working on it. How long does it take to
fax a letter notifing them that the employees were not paid anything. No quartly
bonus, already earned, no yearend bonus, already earned, no vacation pay, already
earned. Please do not give my name or e-mail. Mad in Missouri
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: XXXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Many ex-employees of OMC Andrews, have stated, they will not return to OMC
as long as L*** ******** is still affiliated with the company or new company.
They strongly feel he has stabbed many employees in the back, by not being
upfront with them and playing office politics. With him either your his buddie
and willing to jump for him or your not. A big percentage of workers has found
other jobs, those with technical skills, are now enrolled in school to further
their education, in order to find better paying jobs. Many are also looking to
relocate if possible. Many of the ex-employees cannot afford to sit idle, while
OMC plays games in the business market. They very well could be selling to
another company, but most all the technical skills will be gone, by then. Thanks
to ESC, in assisting us who wish to further our education and Tri-County
Community College for helping us achieve our goal by allowing us to further
our education and broadening our skills for better paying jobs. They are the
ones who have given us hope. As far as OMC goes at this present time.
The way many of us sees it, what goes around comes around.
Please do not use my name.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Big
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC closing
I live in Spruce Pine,NC where OMC's engine casting plant operated, and
was for nearly 3 years an employee in that plant. Fortunately, I left OMC last
summer.
The sad thing about all of this is that this area is economically depressed.
There are no jobs, and fewer by the month. In March the knitting mill in
town will close--another 230 people out of jobs. At OMC, there were many
husbands and wives both working at the plant. How will they make it? How
about their children? What about the ones that have been there for 17 or 18
years? Who makes their house payment for them now? Who is paying for their
car? How about the power bill? Or should they just decide whether they want
electric or food this month?
It really made me mad when I read the postings on your site and all everyone
is worried about is "Who's gonna fix my motor?!?!?" I understand their
worries, but maybe they should remember that people made that motor and made
their living there, and now they can't.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC - Recent Upheavals
Dear Mr. Wizard, et al.,
What began in 1997 as a bad taste in the mouth has turned to utter
disappointment. "Merry Christmas! Oh, and BTW, you no longer work here"--
you just don't do that to your employees. There is obviously a lot involved
which would substantiate management's untimely decision, but any team
with a modicum of intelligence, a little creativity, and some imagination
would have had plenty of time to steer the company in a more favorable
direction. Unfortunately, such was not the case, and so it makes one wonder...
Managing a company can be likened to a game, albeit an important one. And
if there is not a genuine passion for the game, its process and lore, then
there is no spirit in the game, and a company can quickly become disheartened;
dispirited. Hence, analogously speaking, the company has "lost its swing." In
this situation, management decisions often do become a very bitter pill,
and when this happens, it usually indicates there is something missing in the mix.
In '91 I attended OMC service school in Ft. Lauderdale. One of the old timers
who worked there at the time pulled me aside after class one day to talk about
the company, and how things had changed since my grandfather passed-on in
'86. He intimated that things were definitely not like they used to be, and that
morale had begun to slip. He said that what had started to disappear was a
heart-felt sense of pride, that certain intangible quality which comes from working
in a company with a rich, unbroken history. I understood what he was trying
to tell me, and am confounded that management at the time could not. Over
the years, things did not improve, and it is safe to assume that given these
recent, unfortunate turn of events, morale could probably not sink any lower.
What has transpired over the last decade is in my view unthinkable, a bad
dream come to test the unfaltering heart. Instead of operating under its own
volition, it appears as if OMC is being shuffled from one foster home to another,
losing a piece of its identity (read dignity) in the process. Is there anyone
left with an invested interest, not just from a business perspective (we have
already witnessed the fruits of a hollow, tunnel vision approach), but with an
initiative to preserve the efficacy of a company which at one time was the
dominant force in an industry lead by it's founder? I believe Outboard Marine
Corporation has a soul, and like any dispirited human soul, needs a heart to
beat life back into it. Leaders are not generic, and successful companies
are built upon the backs of its employees.
Since the buyout in '97, I have fallen out of touch with company operations,
for obvious reasons. But this website has gotten me up to speed, telling
things as they are, with no fluff. Thank you for your well-informed articles,
postings, and for allowing the employee's voice to be heard. My heart goes
out to all who have been displaced in these recent upheavals.
Sincerely,
Thurs Jan 11
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: a
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Good help wanted
Lucenti-Bonds Marine
5613 S. Ridgewood Ave.
Port Orange, FL 32127
904-788-5050
Daytona Beach Florida - We Don't Do Snow
We are a small family dealership with 6 boat lines, Angler Boats, Pro-Sport Boats,
Twin-Vee Cats, Rouge Skiffs, Fiesta Pontoons, and a local boat maker Aquaforce
Boats. We have 12 employees, of which we are not all connected to the Lucenti
family but all work together as a family for the same cause. Great sales, Greatest
Service and one heck of a friendly group.
We are looking for hard working, reliable, friendly, people to come share a great
place to live and work .. Daytona Beach. We sell OMC products... Johsons and the
great Evinrude Fichts, Mercury and Honda motors.
We are looking for:
Part Person (male or female)
Riggers (male or female)
Mechanics (male or female)
Send resume or email to Alice at lucenti@bellsouth.net
or mail to:
Attn: Alice
Lucenti-Bonds Marine
5613 S. Ridgewood Ave.
Port Orange, FL 32127
There are a lot of boat builders and dealerships in Florida looking for good
help. If I can't help you, I will send your resume on to other dealerships and
boat builders if your wish.
Good Luck to all OMC X employees and We hope we see things turn around
for all of you and all OMC products.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From:XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC news from Orlando Florida
Mr. Wizard,
It's Wednesday Jan 10 at 10:42pm as I start this email.
I just received a call from my father who is in Orlando Florida for a
Corvette convention and he called me regarding a new article in the Orlando
paper.
The article was talking about the decision of the bankruptcy court to be
announced on Feb8th. The article was referring to a quote from the judge in
Chicago that any decision to break the company apart would not necessary go
to the highest bidder, but rather take into account the "best interest" of
the industry, dealers, employees and not that of the old OMC.
I cannot confirm this, but maybe you can hunt around and see what you can
come up with.
If this is true, then maybe there is hope for the X-OMC employees who truly
love what they were doing and would love to go back.
* Please keep my name and address private.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: H
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Frustrated Customer
1-10-2001
Mr. Wizard:
I am pleased to see OMC customers beginning to contribute to your
feedback page. OMC customers - don't just bury your heads in the sand
and wait for this mess to sort itself out. There are a lot of other much
more organized groups in line ahead of you for their "cents-on-the-dollar"
piece of OMC. You are legally owed the warranty service and product
guarantees you paid for. Want to speculate as to where, in the long
line of those owed money by OMC and their dealers, a representative
for your warranty stands?
I have 2 questions to share:
1. A couple of dealers have offered reassuring words to customers but
thus far there is nothing behind those words. Have any of the dealers
given thought to collectively searching for an alternative bridging warranty
for existing customers? Extended warranties are nothing more than
insurance policies. Why don't dealers get together and search for an
insurance/warranty company that would offer warranties to existing
customers who can produce proof of proper maintenance of their engines
(service records for example). Even requiring passing a service inspection
prior to approval of issuance of the extended warranty would be helpful.
The cost for this alternate bridging warranty could be shared by existing
customers and dealers. I have several affected friends who I believe
would readily cough up a bit more money for the reassurance of having
a warranty they could count on. I know that an easy-out to this suggestion
is to say that a new warranty would be worthless without the availability
of parts. However 3rd party parts are available and a warranty bridge
would entice further investment into this market.
2. Someone claiming to be involved in servicing OMC FICHT engines
recently posted a message containing the following statement;
"Also, what we are finding out is that the engines will have piston lose
at or about 105 hrs due to injector failure. Do you have any insight into
this or can find out from other owners if they are having the same
problem? I personally know of five engines in my dealers shop that have
failed recently due to the same problem, ranging from 150 to 225hp. â^À¦I
hope i am wrong, but I run the computer checks on these engines and
have the print outs to back up what i have found."
Can others reading these messages respond to this comment. Are there
known problems beginning to show up (again) on the new FICHT engines
or are reports like this unusual?
Thanks.
(Please do not post my screen name)
RBBI Comment: You suggest the bridging warranty be paid together
by dealer and boater. Each boater would only have to pay for one, but the
dealers would have to pay for a zillion. Cost prohibitive for dealers.
Date: Thu, 11 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Good people, bad people
Hi Wizard, Please XXXXX out my name this time
First let me say that all of the OMC employee's I met and worked with
during my time there were outstanding people. The failure of OMC was
not the lack of hard work, commitment or pride of the workers it was simply
mis-management at the highest level starting in the late 80's. I know a lot
of people would blame some of the most recent management ( and some
should be there ) but in reality the beginning of the end happen several
years ago when failed strategies were put in place. OMC never recovered
from being caught with their pants down in 1989 with excessive inventory
and the harsh treatment of customers and dealers alike. It was easy to do
that when you were number one in the world and had things going your way.
A good case in point is Mercury Marine today and the way they treat dealers,
customers and employee's. They have major quality problems both internal
as well as external and can't seem to get a handle on either. Morale is at
an all time low, people leaving and the wrong people being brought in from
the outside to run the company with flawed strategies. (Sound familiar) and
it will only be a matter of time before the foreigners will own the marine
market. It seems like the foreigners have a willingness to work together
and help each other in a real time of need and unlike American companies
that seem to gloat when one of their competitors go under. ( Another nail in
the American workers coffin). It's all for the good of the stockholder you
know and never looking to the big picture and the future of American
industry. Let me say in closing that I too feel for all the people hurt caused
by this situation and can only hope that the courts will do what is right
for the working employee's that got screwed by Soros.
Enough said for now.
Fri Jan 12
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Final Chapter Of OMC Hong Kong
Wizard,
OMC Hong Kong finally have to face the liquidation. It all started at this
monday. At the creditor's meeting, which was hold at 1/8/2001, board
of director of OMC Hong Kong passed the resolution and started to
winding-down. All employees are laid-off on 1/9/2001 without any un-paid
holiday and compensation.
OMC Hong Kong is established at the mid-70's mainly at the production
ignition control unit used at the Johnson/Evinrude engines (Carburetor
engine). It is really sad to see a 25 years old company that have to shut-down
forever. Most the employees have been working here for more then 15 years,
I can see there were tears in their eyes at the last general meeting before
they walk out of the building. They knew they will never come back.
Good luck to all!!!
Please remove my name and e-mail.
Regards
Date: Thu, 11 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC retrospective
Dear Mr. Wizard,
Please do omit my name and email address as my perspectives might
not be popular.
I am a former employee of Outboard Marine in Spruce Pine, NC. We,
as a team, were unbeatable. We pulled together during the problems with
Ficht technology, and we worked many hours overtime in the heat of a
foundry to put out the poundage we were asked to. Most of our equipment
was ancient by the standards of modern businesses, but we made it work.
The employees in all OMC facilities are truly the most valuable asset the
company has, and any organization that may buy the divisions out will
have a well trained staff ready to put into place. I, myself, would go back
to the Spruce Pine facility be it boat motors, parts for another company, or
a something totally new and unfamiliar. As long as it's not illegal, immoral,
or fattening.
It is unfortunate that the powers that be saw fit to treat us the way they
did. However, after the preliminary shock, and the anger that followed
close on its heels, I have tried to see it in a different light. The God I serve
says vengeance is His, and I know in my heart that those whose decision
it was to end it as they did will pay for it. You do not hurt faithful
employees and get away with it. No matter where you try to hide you are
never hidden from the eyes of God.
I have heard rumblings, though they are no more than rumors, that a group
of people toured the SP facility earlier in the week, and that they may have
made an offer. Let us hope that all the divisions are sold soon, and that we
are all back to work before the mortgage companies know we were
unemployed.
Keep the faith.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Mr Wizard,
In these very dark days at OMC, you have become a guiding light in that
very darkness.
I know I can speak for many X-OMC persons when I say thank you for the
time and effort you give in keeping the information timely and as close as our
computers.
I can no longer count on OMC, but can count on Mr Wizard!
Thank You
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: Extended Warranty:
When I purchased my Lowe boat equipped with a 50 h.s.p. Johnson motor,
I also purchased an extended warranty. Know I possibly could be out not only
the motor warranty but also the extended warranty. And I'm sure I'm not
alone. I personally don't see how the courts can't hold some moneys back to
at least reimburse the dealers for warranty and extended warranty work.
Another point is that I'll just venture to say that there at the top of the
corporate ladder at O. M. C. There were some folks making some huge bucks
and those same folks will make out like bandits. Who gets the shaft the
workers and the middle folks who trusted in the product. Well, it seems to
me that if the people in management of these corporations aren't sent a
message by the courts and soon we, as a the buying public will be forced to
go to foreign companies who seem to have there ducks in a row as far as
Employee Morale, and Product Quality as a part of there commitment to the
American Public.
Wait and see what happens.
Any thing else that we can do????? Please Inform!
A Satisfied Customer Up Until Now.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: 401k
Sirs, seeing as how its been almost three and 1/2 weeks since we were dumped
by OMC, have any ex-ployees recieved their packet in the mail concerning our
pension plan, 401, health ins. etc? Retirees may be interested to know I've
heard rumors that the Soros" group is trying to rape the company pension
fund. Any truth to that? Personally, I want to get my money out of their
401k plan as soon as possible. Please shield my identity. Thanks, the XXXX
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Seeking Mechanic & Riggers
National Top Ten Dealer in Northeast Tennessee seeking a certified mechanic,
rigging team and parts manager. Owner has over 23 years in the marine industry
and is considered "one of the best and most successful in the business."
Beautiful area with many surrounding lakes in immediate area. We have a terriffic
staff, excellent pay plan with benefits and we provide continuing technical
education for the right people. Contact Beverly at 423-534-1765. Leave
complete message with name, phone number and address if no answer. We
will contact you promptly. If interested, you may also contact me at
gsmarine@planetc.com.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: Vicki
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Job Openings
Caravelle Powerboats a southwest Georgia based company of inboard and
outboard fiberglass boats is accepting resumes of experienced persons in the
following positions: Molds, Tooling, Boat Laminations, Assembly, & Final
Finish.
Fax resumes: 229-924-1030
E-mail: caravell@sowega.net
Mailing Address: Caravelle Powerboats
PO Box 1899
Americus, GA 31709
Attn: Vicki Franks - Human Resource Mgr.
Sat Jan 13
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Pensky
If Pensky had won the original bidding war, I would bet things would be
different. I wonder if he would have any interest in it now (maybe in just a
portion of the total company, at least)? I see that he is one of the choices
in the "vote who will buy them" list on this web site. I know Mercury was
relieved when he did not win originally. There is "first class" and "no
class"; unfortunately, looks like OMC got the later a few years ago. I'm a
Mercury man, but I think competition just makes everyone better. On the
personal side, I will keep the OMC employees in my prayers. As far as piston
failures are concerned, is that really related to the Ficht system, per se,
or is it just the engine design that is being equipped with Ficht? Does
anyone know if this also affects Ficht engines that are becoming prevalent on
some brands of personal watercraft (saw some at the boat show today)?
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: S
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Auction Update
Hello,
I would like to know whether or not the auction is a public auction on
the 31st. Also whether or not you will have someone at the auction to
report back to you the results of the auction, minute by minute, piece
by piece. Please set up a information page for the auction
information. This is the most important thing now. It has become a
waiting game for all concerned.
Please let me know your decisions.
Waiting patiently,
Thank you,
RBBI Comment: As posted in the newsclips, OMC will be accepting
bids for its assetts up to Jan 26th. The bids will be opened Jan 31 in the
Bankruptcy Court and a hearing by the court will be held Feb 8 to review the
sale or sales.
We are not sure how fast the court will reach its final decision or if the final
decisions will all be reached at once (may be some parts deferred till later).
We expect it will take the court awhile to sort through the various
options, especially when it comes to selling in pieces vs. larger divisions.
Also not sure how and when the results will be released or what format
they will be released in. Might even be left up to the purchasers to
announce outcome in some cases.
Lots of unknowns, but expect by Feb 12th they will be considerable fewer
unknowns.
In terms of providing live coverage, in case nobodys noticed, we have
already spent a few hundred hours on this out of our own pocket. Travel
expenses would need to come out of our food budget and Mr. Wizard
likes to eat too much. We will not be attending the court.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: A response to"D"of December 31st
FROM "L" to "D"
I was a bit over reactive as I wrote my feelings of the OMC mess, but
Peterborough is the birthplace of all those products. I have lovingly restored
to operating condition one of the first outboards produced here, gone to
school to repair them, spent my childhood exploring lakes and rivers with a
3hp, I thought they were the best bar none.
The plane truth is the your American Corporation stole a gem from this
community, They stole our heritage and left us with nothing but bad feelings.
The mess is still here with contaminated soil that they knew was here but
somehow "forgot". Ask them about the sawdust.
I was at the final auction of the plant equipment and it was sickening to see
the vultures bid off a lifetime of memories of manufacturing toil by a great team
of employee's.
I do not appologize for my comments and yes I wanted to stir the hot pot to
see if someone would rise up. So what are you going to do about it ??? . fight,
to not let this happen again,speak up before it happens.
Lets, as real supporters of OMC products not let this mess happen again.
This type of forum allows open conversations on an industry that has never
been seen this medium before. Hats off to Mr. Wizard to get us all together to
communicate on a issue we feel so passonate about.
I await my dealer to tell me the news on how my $25,000.00 brand new
recreational fun toy will be warranteed. I believe in my dealer,
he sold me back to OMC. I am proud of Lowe and Evinrude.
For all those whom the bell tolled, I ask you when you all get back to building
Evinrude, Johnson, Lowe, Princecraft,Fourwinns,Chriscraft and all the other
products, take a bit of what "D" said and how HD came back, put the effort
in the product and not in the hype. Learn from your competitors, listen to
your customers . The whole worlds waits for your return, make it count.
And for the Corporate Slim who created this, Do the Timex torture test
and tie them to the prop of a Johnson and head up river and see if they
can survive the turrent waters they so greedly operated in.
My livelyhood did depend on OMC being here, when they were here.
How about it CANADA lets bring it home and buy our heritage back.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001 20:41:43 -0000
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC's DEMISE
Please delete my address as what I'm about to say will probably upset a
few people.
I hadn't worked at OMC as long as many of my fellow (ex) co-workers so
I can't speak for what happened before that point in time, 4 years ago.
Much finger pointing has been done at this site and others on the internet
at the most recent OMC owners and management about how terrible they
are. Well while I don't condone the timing of the closure and bankruptcy
filing nor the poor communications and support of the laid off employees,
dealers and customers they did make a valiant financial effort to turn OMC
around. I'm sure they are not going to recover the total amount of their
investments no matter what. They were not totally responsible for the failure
of the company.
Blunders by previous management(s). Workers in all departments, in all
divisions, that did not grasp the significance of what was happening for
many years and sensing the urgency. Instead of saying "what can my
company do for me", say "what can I do for my company" (sorry JFK).
The four years I was at OMC the usual response when salaried people were
asked to put in a little extra time was "will we be paid or get comp time,
what's in it for ME" (I guess the answer was "your job future at OMC").
Employees who didn't have the courage to speak up to their managers
when they found a problem but had no problem bitching behind their backs.
Yeah, we all heard about the guys that got fired for speaking up. That's
funny, I spoke up a lot and was there until the end. The dealers who
expected OMC to pay for their lack of experience, blunders and even
fraud. Customer who just never grasp the meaning of a warranty and
insisted/badgered/sued until they got something despite the fact that
their product may have been 2,3, 4 or more years out of warranty. Dealers
and customers who expected OMC to pay for maintenance items, i.e. Cobra
shift cable 10-12 years after new, damages and failures due to lack of
maintenance, misuse and abuse. How many dealers and customers
registered engines as recreational use when they were actually being
used commercially? These are just some of the reasons companies like
OMC fail.
All the blame shouldn't be directed at Mr's Fix, Soros and friends, probably
very little of the blame should be. They put up their money and lost, how
much more should they have been expected to lose. I don't know any of
these men but I've personally been in their position (on a much smaller
scale): a failing business, a faltering economy (at least that's what the
media got us to believe) requiring a decision to pull the plug and watch
an easy million dollars disappear in the proverbial hole in the water. It
bothered that my employees and loyal customers were affected but at some
point I had to say enough is enough and watch out for my family and myself.
Hopefully some of us will get another chance to work for a company under
the name OMC, Evinrude or Johnson. If so, let's all count our blessing and
try a little harder the next time around.
Good luck.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Pension and 401(k) Assets
Pension and 401(k) Assets are held in separate trusts. The Soros group
cannot "rape" these funds.
Keep your heads high!
Please remove my identity.
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Spurce Pine------Lost Foam Plant
Dear Mr. Wizard.
I am contracting you in regard to the Lost Foam Plant in Spruce Pine .
It was my undfrstanding we were the best in the best in the world at
production of v-blocks. This being so who do you thing would be intersted
in such a plant ?
Do you think they they would be insterest in bring back the same
workes with the experince ,such as me with 16 years of service.
I really loved my job !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I want to thank you for a job well done. Piease give me all the info you can.
Thank You
D
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: t
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
I am the owner of two 1998 fitch 175 and now two 2000 fitch 200. My 1998 and
1999 boating seasons were filled with nothing but down time. Only my dealer and his
staff kept me from nuking OMC. In hearing that the problems were over, I repowered
in 2000, now I wonder if this was the BIGGEST mistake I've ever made. I am extremely
sympathetic to OMC employees and feel that someone dropped the ball or (engines)
as the case may be.
I hope there is a good solution for OMC employees and consumers if and when a
new buyer comes along.
Mon Jan 15
RBBI Comment: We received several comments on the letter below posted earlier this week.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Do prospective Buyers of OMC & owners of engines know about the
fire hazzard with many Ficht engines????
Mr. Wizard,
I am a former OMC XXXX ........ In late November, OMC informed us of a major
rework of product (They call it an enhancement kit!) for the 200/225 Ficht
engines from 1999 through 2001 models. We were given list of what dealers had
the engines and the unit serial numbers. Also Owner names if the unit was sold.
We received a sample kit and a video on how to install the kit. This video also
went to the dealers. It was to pay 3.4 hours warranty labor to install. Many of the
2001 models only needed a simpler injector bolt kit which they planned to handle
with a Service Bulletin and let the dealer do as the units came in for regular
service. The 2001 models already had most of the improvements.
After looking at the video and the kit, I raised the issue why they were not
addressing the problem with the Vapor separator tops breaking and leaking fuel in
the lower motor pan. Several fires and explosions have occurred because of this
problem. The above mention kits address the other possible fire hazard of
the injectors coming loose and starting a fire, but nothing on the vapor separator.
In hot weather, the fuel in the separator expands after the engine is stopped or
sometimes in real hot weather just the sun shining on the motor cover causes enough
heat expansion of the fuel to push the top cap off the canister. OMC made changes
to beef up the tops to prevent this from happening and stronger parts were in the
system. They just chose to ignore the situation and continue to handle them on a per
case basis. They went so far as to call back any older vapor separators we had in
with us on our service trucks and replaced them with new ones. when I asked why
they wanted them returned, they said "You do not need to know and keep quite
about it!" When it blows the motor cover off, we call it a " 911 code - Motor
cover above expected range!"
I am very concerned that they decided to bail out before this problem became widely
know and people found out how dangerous it really is. If had to stand the warranty
and law suits there would be nothing left for the investors to salvage! Somebody
needs to make this problem known, Before someone is seriously hurt of killed. Engine
owners need to know and prospective buyers of OMC need to know!
I have tired many sources in an effort to "let it be known" but have heard nothing
back. I have pictures of an engine that caught fire in September 2000 and copies
of OMC documents discussing the problem as far back as May 2000. I have the proof
if anyone is interested!
Thanks for your time!
RBBI Comment: Field failures leading to potential injury or death are
evaluated on a combination of severity of injury and frequency. As with any
manufacturer of this size, especially one with this much legacy product in the field
being used by the general public, we suspect there are a few design problems
(liabilities) they will be happy to walk away from. We are certainly not in a position
to comment on this specific one.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: OMC Management
I am a former employee of OMC Milwaukee (Evinrude). If Ole Evinrude
could see what has happened to his once proud company he would roll over
in his grave.
I was forced to retire last year after 35 years as an Evinruder. The
new management made a valiant effort, but it was too little too late. The
former management started screwing up OMC the day after Ralph Evinrude
retired with their announcement of the move down south. They invested as
little as possible in training and new equipment, but rewarded themselves
well for their minimal efforts. With nothing but ancient equipment and almost
no maintenance, we put out the best product we could in spite of the
management not because of them. They never had any respect for their
employees and thought that any of us could be replaced without any thought
given to our experience and loyalty. The current employees are now suffering
the consequences of their folly.
We always thought of the "new" OMC employees as outsiders, but now
they are sharing the same fate as we did, without the benefit of a pension
check. To you newly laid off employees I say: don't blame the present owners.
They made a good effort and for the short time we worked for them, they
treated us better and kept us better informed than our former employers ever
did. In other words, they tried to make it work. I only hope that the company
or companies that buy it now, keep up the good effort and make it work this
time. We used to No. 1 in the world. I'd like to see it that way again
sometime.
Please remove my name from publication.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: Boat Master
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Check out investcon.net
RBBI Comment: link above is to a group providing information
on OMCs facilities, production capabilities and work force to those wishing
to bid on portions of OMC. Is nicely done site but not much information on the
people behind it. We e-mailed a request for additional information about their
background, skill and experience. Shortly later we recieved the response below>
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: Boat Master
To: Gary
Subject: Re: your mail
At this time we would like to remain anonymous until we become engaged with
someone...Not sure how Fix and Romano are going to respond to this. We are
past Boat Group leaders; corp. finance, corp. manufacturing and divisional talent.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Fires
The "Secret Squirrels" stay awake at nights over this one! Right XXX.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc fires
I would like to get in contact with the OMC field rep that left the
message on sun about the fire hazard of the Ficht. When OMC file they were
at out business looking at a motor that exploded and burn the boat
completely. This matter has not been settled yet. I could use some
information because of the legal possibilities.
Thanks
J
RBBI Note: We forwarded this email to the rep.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Boat Purgatory
Wiz,
The next ten days will be tough. We are taking it one day at a time. Our dealership
hopes that the next owners of Evin and John will honor warranty claims. We are
taking care of our customers where we can. We have been honest with our customers
and they continue to buy our products. I pray for all concerned that this ends well.
I saw today that Penske bought Rollins out and I expect that he is not a player here.
Many hope that a domestic company wins the bid. I for one do not care who wins, only
that they do business the right way.
By the middle of Feb., the new owners will hopefully begin operation. Dealers and
product owners will be happy when this happens.
I would like to make this happen faster, but the Judge has no problem with the lenght
of time here. He is not having any problems with this situation. If he understood what
we are dealing with , he would speed this up . If if was a skiff.
Later Wiz,
dealer
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc meltdown
Could you give me insight on the situation with OMC dealers free
floorplan programs? Do you think the floorplan companies will try to
ride the storm out until something gets settled in court or is the
interest clicking? I wouldn't think the floorplan companies would want
the inventory, which would have to be sold pennies on the dollar. OMC
gave all these great extended floorplan programs to lure the dealers
into taking the product and then they shut the doors. Yes, I believe OMC
is wrong in doing this; but dealers knew they had lost millions and
millions over the last three years. Sometimes you've got to open your
eyes before you walk!
Next, nothing has been mentioned about the fuel injection P.W.C.
technology, which Polaris and Kawasaki are dependant of. I would guess
Bombardier is licking their chops over this. Even though they are the
dominant market player, sales should go up due to the inability of
production of fuel injection systems to Polaris and Kawasaki. Things
will definately work themselves out; but the next few years may be rough
for OMC dealers. Sometimes it's not whether you jump off the boat; but
how to get the concrete blocks chained to your feet off before you do.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: William Brown
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc bulliten board
I would first of all like to say good bye to soo many of the omc dealers that I
talked with on a daily basis.
I am a former Omc Customer Service Rep. Many of Omc's dealers talked with
us on a daily basis. I would like to tell these dealers that I had a great time
talking to them and helping with whatever issues they had. There are several
dealers I wish I had the chance to get a hold of before we were asked to leave
the building. I was only with OMC about two years, but miss the contact from
the dealers.
It would be appreciated, if any dealers remember speaking with William Brown
(me) and would feel it appropriate to send any letters , or comments, which might
be helpful in finding another job. Letters can be sent to XXXXX
Again, I would like to say thank you for the experience and the great conversation.
I hope I get a chance to speak with many of you in the future.
RBBI Comment: Sorry, we are not going to turn this into a help wanted board.
We have identified and posted many opportunities on our
Job Openings for ex-OMC Employees page.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: B
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC History
I feel I can be still no longer. OMC customers, dealers, ex-employees, and
Potential New Owners, have a right to know. God knows they'll all be left in
the dark if the shenanigans and deceptions of the last 20+ years are allowed
to continue. Isn't anyone curious enough to find out what forces Really drove
a well established, global leading, Fortune 500 marine business to ruin? The
answers are simple, yet subtle, and due to the loyalty of really great
employee's, would never be revealed to anyone outside the nucleus, until now.
Obviously, the failure of OMC, was, in great part due to its tremendous
success in the decades preceeding its' decline. I was there when it happened,
I know what happened, I know the players. Over these many years, I can recite
numerous irrefutable examples of gut wrenching, incredible blunders, brought
on by some of the most ego-manical, egotistical, rude, lying, calloused
jackxxxxx that ever inhabited the hallowed halls of OMC. (What's really
disconcerting is, many of them are still there) My inquery (request with no
obligation) to you sir is, where do I go with this? Do I set myself up for
libel? As for the dealers, customers, and ex-employees I feel it's too late
for us. Any advice though, on how to pass on pertinent info to potential new
owners without screwing myself legally would be very much appreciated. I will
keep any advice you may offer to me extremely confidential, as I hope this
correspondance will be. ** (By the way, you do a great job for us ex'ers,. We
all admire you, just keep those editorials comin' ! You've become a
lighthouse to a lot of people). Thank you, God bless you !
Sincerely,
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: ROBERT L. WELLS
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: To OMC History
The subject of the failure of OMC is very interesting to me and I am
planning on doing a book about the how this mess happened. You or any
other interested parties can e-mail me with your thoughts at:
rlwells@ix.netcom.com
I don't need to know who you are, but it would be nice.
Thanks
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001 18:46:41 EST
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Employees
Mr. Wizard , Are any of those displaced employees in the Florida area? Sea
Ray would love to talk with them. Tell them to go to searay.com and see whats
available. The Sykes Facility and the new Cape Canaveral Facility are looking
for skilled boat builders , electricians , laminators , cabinet builders ,
upholsters .
Build boats ......a future ..........a dream
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: Jeff
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc meltdown
On the question of if Transamerica will come after the dealers for the
floor plan interest I have this thought. Good business practice would be to
only forward to OMC the cost of the units less the interest to be accrued.
If a unit is paid off early, then the finance company will forward the bonus
to OMC. If the arrangement was for OMC to get the full amount and then pay
the interest ,that would have been a bad decision on Transamerica's part.
Which in that case if they come to the dealer for interest ,I would say to
bad it was your mistake.
Texas Dealer
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Kits
Please do not publish my name or address.
OK to publish the following.
In response to the field reps concerns with field kits:
Anyone who has a Ficht engine needs to check and see if the new enhancement
kits have been installed on your fuel injectors. These are for engines with
the all plastic injector housings and injectors retained by bolts and belvil
washers. These kits were in the process of being released to the dealers and
field reps/teams.
The kit includes new injector retention clamps (horseshoe clamp), retention
bolts, injector housing straps with integral fuel line retention clips and
convoluted tubing to cover all plastic fuel lines which flow into and out of
the injectors.
Dealers should have the information on this important kit.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Parts Availibility
As an independent OMC technician in Fl, I'd like to know if anyone has heard
when parts are going to be released. I have alot of customers as I'm sure
everyone else has that are wondering what is going on and if their engines
can be maintained and/or repaired. Is February 8th the magic date?? If
anyone knows for sure, please forward the correct info, as all I'm hearing is
rumors.
Scared in Jupiter:(
Tues Jan 16
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Please note correct spelling:
Roger S. Penske
Mr Wizard Comment: pilot error.
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: Marine
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: the world knows about OMC
Dear Mr. Wizard,
I noticed in one of your articles you mentioned the whole world knows
what's going on with OMC. I've seen ONE news (tv) article on OMC.
This is not receiving the national news coverage it should. My heart goes
out to all the OMC employee's. Unless your involved in the marine
industry, you aren't hearing anything! Mercury faxed us the 22nd of
Dec. that was OMC filing bankruptcy and I went to the internet. Many
of OMC's dealers still didn't know what was happening.
Keep us informed!
RBBI Comment: The "whole world" comment was made in context
of it is no longer a secret they are for sale. Some companies try to hide
the fact they are for sale to conduct ongoing business till time of sale and
do not want to take out a big print FOR SALE ad. Is not the case for OMC.
They have the freedom to openly expose the sale to anyone they wish,
including the ebay approach mentioned by Mr. Wizard.
It is true TWA and Wards bankruptcys have recieved much more attention
in the national news. But they are much larger more widely known firms who
deal direct to consumers.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: What about..
What about customers boats that were at the factory being repaired when
OMC shut down? There isn't even anyone to ask about the problem?
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC asset auction
according to the documents i read on the illinois federal bankruptcy court
website, the papers filed by R. Romano OMC VP LEGAL, states that only
those people/entities which have filed with the court to be present, placed
certified funds in a good faith account and to which the debtor agree's should
attend, may attend the auction. so no, i don't think we could call it a "public"
auction.... pls remove my ename and eaddress if you decide to post this.
also, to the writer " spread the blame " for the demise of the company, i agree
completely with you. although, there were many salaried employee's who did
work into the night when called for. i for one, was still at the office at 2AM
last March. and i was not alone! people were at the plant at all shipping
locations and in the office making sure what needed to get done was done...
it was the same for the shipping crews each quarter or month end..while the
hourly people i'm sure were paid OT, the salaried people received nothing. as
far as comp time, never was given any, never asked for any.
i hold the generations of officers, from strang, to chapman, to bauman, to jones
as totally responsible for the demise of this corporation. they pillaged this once
great company for their own betterment. they still are ... strang chapman and
other ex officers have filed papers to protect themselves with the bankruptcy
court on their "special" post employment officer's programs. i have witnessed
this company being run like a monarchy, and the officers really believing
themselves royalty.....it made me sick at my heart to watch it happen.
anyway, i personally think this will turn out for the best. it's been a very sick
company for a very long time. the proud trade names i hope will live on. it's
just too bad that a few men could trash a proud company thru their own greed
and negligence.
pls remove my name and e address.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Do prospective Buyers of OMC & owners of engines know about the
fire hazzard with many Ficht engines????
Mr. Wizard,
I am a former OMC XXXX ........ In late November, OMC informed us of a major
rework of product (They call it an enhancement kit!) for the 200/225 Ficht
engines from 1999 through 2001 models. We were given list of what dealers had
the engines and the unit serial numbers. Also Owner names if the unit was sold.
We received a sample kit and a video on how to install the kit. This video also
went to the dealers. It was to pay 3.4 hours warranty labor to install. Many of the
2001 models only needed a simpler injector bolt kit which they planned to handle
with a Service Bulletin and let the dealer do as the units came in for regular
service. The 2001 models already had most of the improvements.
After looking at the video and the kit, I raised the issue why they were not
addressing the problem with the Vapor separator tops breaking and leaking fuel in
the lower motor pan. Several fires and explosions have occurred because of this
problem. The above mention kits address the other possible fire hazard of
the injectors coming loose and starting a fire, but nothing on the vapor separator.
In hot weather, the fuel in the separator expands after the engine is stopped or
sometimes in real hot weather just the sun shining on the motor cover causes enough
heat expansion of the fuel to push the top cap off the canister. OMC made changes
to beef up the tops to prevent this from happening and stronger parts were in the
system. They just chose to ignore the situation and continue to handle them on a per
case basis. They went so far as to call back any older vapor separators we had in
with us on our service trucks and replaced them with new ones. when I asked why
they wanted them returned, they said "You do not need to know and keep quite
about it!" When it blows the motor cover off, we call it a " 911 code - Motor
cover above expected range!"
I am very concerned that they decided to bail out before this problem became widely
know and people found out how dangerous it really is. If had to stand the warranty
and law suits there would be nothing left for the investors to salvage! Somebody
needs to make this problem known, Before someone is seriously hurt of killed. Engine
owners need to know and prospective buyers of OMC need to know!
I have tired many sources in an effort to "let it be known" but have heard nothing
back. I have pictures of an engine that caught fire in September 2000 and copies
of OMC documents discussing the problem as far back as May 2000. I have the proof
if anyone is interested!
Thanks for your time!
RBBI Comment: Field failures leading to potential injury or death are
evaluated on a combination of severity of injury and frequency. As with any
manufacturer of this size, especially one with this much legacy product in the field
being used by the general public, we suspect there are a few design problems
(liabilities) they will be happy to walk away from. We are certainly not in a position
to comment on this specific one.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: Richard
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc not dead yet!
I got into the marine buisness 15 years ago with my father fixing outboards when he
was layed off the first time greenway steped into the picture Iwould like to see the
employee union step in and organize a employee buy out and tell greenway to get lost
the only reason they bought omc was for the money they have a XXXX pore attitude
about the reputation of all and any buisness the posess . OMC has the leading edge
tachnology in fuel injection. There is nothing wrong with the ficht technology like
any other manufacturer the have some bugs to work out Hell IM sure GM ,Ford Didnt
get it right on there first try either .
Sincerly A concerned Tech
Wed Jan 17
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Misplaced Optimism
I am somewhat concerned on the amount of misplaced optimism that I read
from both dealers and former employees of OMC on a number of web sites.
Having worked at OMC a number of years I saw the writing on the wall and
managed to move beyond OMC a few months prior to it's impact with the
ground. As much as I threw myself at my work and the love for the product
and hope for its survival I get the feeling that many are unable to rationalize
what has and is occurring.
The company has failed largely due to poor decisions made 20-30 years ago
while it was still "King of the Hill" however it was also woefully poor in its
training and education of its mid-upper level managers. This failure left the
company handicapped in its decision making process and limited in its ability
to raise the next generation of leader(less).
What does OMC have left to sell today? Its boat companies were largely
ignored in the meetings I attended however it is probably the only thing OMC
can sell for a decent price today. The Waukegan campus is part of an EPA
Superfund Clean-up site 'yeah I will buy it. The engine names of Evinrude and
Johnson are great plus there is FICHT however they are so tarnished right now
it would take a few years to shine them up again and the supply chain required
to build them is shot. You want a crankshaft or any other raw material part
then its cash and carry.
Merc has looked at the manufacturing plants but probably only because they
realize that with OMC dead there is not enough capacity in their system to
produce the 2-strokes required as they try to absorb the OMC market and they
realize if they can not fill the orders then more 2 stroke market is lost to the
foreign made 4 strokes. The only other parties to walk through have been
liquidators who are only interested in scrap price.
I hope for the livelihood of many that they do not think a buyer will descend
and buy OMC in the current market instability and restore all the warranties and
re-hire all the displaced workers revitalizing the Evinrude and Johnson name to
its rightful place. I would love to see that occur but realistically you have to ask
yourself^Åwould you buy it given OMCs record?
Date: Wed, 17 Jan 2001
From: RICK
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: INFO
I'm an OMC-Dealer?????????, I think !!!!! We received our first shipment of parts
today, since the shut down. Just wanted to let you know, Thanks Rick
Thurs Jan 18
We received this note from a member of the Evinrude family to be posted here:
January 12, 2001
Addressed to all concerned about the disturbing situation at Outboard Marine Corporation:
What began in 1997 as a bad taste in the mouth has turned to utter
disappointment. "Merry Christmas! Oh, and by the way, you no longer have a
job here"-- you just don't do that to your employees. There is obviously a
lot involved which would substantiate management's untimely decision, but
one would think that any team with a modicum of intelligence, a little
creativity, and some imagination would have had plenty of time to steer the
company in a more favorable direction (this is management, not rocket
science). Unfortunately, such was not the case, and so it makes one
wonder...
Managing a company can be likened to a game, albeit an important one. And if
there is not a genuine passion for the game, its process and lore, then
there is no spirit in the game, and a company can quickly become
disheartened; dispirited. Hence, analogously speaking, the company has "lost
its swing." In this situation, management decisions often do become a very
bitter pill, and when this happens, it usually indicates there is something
missing in the mix.
While attending OMC service school in '91, one of the old timers who worked
there at the time pulled me aside after class one day to talk about the
company, and how things had changed since my grandfather passed-on in '86.
He intimated that things were definitely not like they used to be, and that
morale had begun to slip. He said that what had started to disappear was a
heart-felt sense of pride, that certain intangible quality which comes from
working in a company with a rich, unbroken history. I understood what he was
trying to tell me, and am confounded that management at the time could not.
Over the years, things have not improved, and it is safe to assume that
given the recent, unfortunate turn of events, morale could probably not sink
any lower. I often wonder how Ole or Ralph would react to finding out what
had become of their life's work.
What has transpired over the last decade is in my view unthinkable, a bad
dream come to test the unfaltering heart. Instead of operating under its own
volition, it is as if OMC is being shuffled from one foster home to another,
losing a piece of its identity (and dignity) in the process. Is there anyone
left with a vested interest, not just with a business agenda, but with an
initiative to preserve the efficacy of a company which at one time was the
dominant force in an industry lead by its founder?
I believe Outboard Marine Corporation has a soul, and like any dispirited
human soul, needs a heart to beat life back into it. Leaders are not
generic, and successful companies are built upon the backs of its employees.
My heart goes out to all who have been displaced in these recent upheavals.
Sincerely,
Thomas Ole Evinrude
La Jolla, CA
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: O
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Dedication to the former OMC Burnsville employees.
I was the coolant technincian at OMC Burnsville. They let me go Dec. 15th
along with all my friends without any warning. I worked very hard at my job and
all of the employees were great to work with. Instead of calling me in to take
care of the coolant I hear they brought in a chemist to preserve it.
I am sending this letter to let all the employees of OMC Burnsville know I really
appreciate the cooperation they gave me over the years. I wish each and everyone
the best and will do anything I can to help them now.
The management at OMC Burnsville have knocked all of the well respected
employees off their feet. They lied to us in so many ways I can't even begin to list.
I want each employee to hold their head up high and move on with their life.
I knew these employees as well as anyone there and know the talent the company
threw down the drain. I really hope a company will come in to this facility and give
these hard working talented former OMC employees the recognizion they deserve.
You could search the world and never find the dedication,talent,and kindness we
had at OMC Burnsville.
Sincerely,
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Important
I have been laid off from OMC in 12-21-00 and I had the chance to work with
the FICHT team.
I am aware of what a great technology FICHT is, I am sure that with the new
owners Evinrude / FICHT technology will be the # 1 in a short period of time.
FICHT is the answer for two cycles, and we will see this technology in all
two cycles engines in the future I believe in the product and you write my
word!!! It will be # 1
PS: I am no longer working for OMC
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Dealer Optimism
In response to the idividual who sees virtually no hope for Evinrude and Johnson,
I believe that he is not aware of the new Rude Ram products that we have sold for
the last few months. The product is the best . I certainly agree that this is a mess,
but I believe that someone with deep pockets will recognize the value of the
names and the technology. The boat companies , for the most part, will be sold
and probably continue. Thirty percent of the market is a lot of business to let die.
I remain optimistic and perhaps foolishly expect Evinrude and Johnson to re-emerge
and continue on.
Sue me,
Optimistic dealer
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Sat Jan 20
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: auction
just a thought, since OMC is offering parts to their dealers at a cash
only bases, and yet the parts are also up for auction, where is the
cutoff date for them to ship parts. Or is this method of selling parts a
ploy to get more cash in and not send parts ordered and paid for. I ask
this because my dealer has ordered parts for my engine, I paid for cash
in advance,and we have not recieved said parts. The irony is that these
parts are for an engine still in warranty, that should not of been
charged for. I depend on my boats for my living, so I ordered and paid.
Any others out there have this queston?
Please do not use my email addy in public.
PS. I have some good friends that worked up in wakeagan, and were reps
in the field. They did a great job, and this is not aimed at those
people. Thanks
Date: Fri, 19 Jan 2001
From: Eugene
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
dear sir,
I have a 2000 Evenrude 225 ficht . My question is, what will happen with
my warranty on my motor and what will happen if I take it in for a
warranty related problem? I have had some problems. If you could help me
with some different sites on the internet it would be appreciated
Thank you
Eugene
Date: Fri, 19 Jan 2001
From: xxxx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC bonuses being paid
Mr. Wizard, can you believe this (don't answer that, cause I know
you can believe it)? The Judge has authorized bonuses to be paid
to the remaining employees to total 2.5 million. With some of the
people getting over $60,000 in bonuses and upwards of $400,000,
on top of their current salaries. This just makes me ill. When you
see people like Rusk, Merlot, Wainscott, Romano and Martinez getting
these huge bonuses for doing what? Except for Romano and Martinez,
those employees have been in their positions less than 4 months.
And all the people who worked for OMC for more than 20 years get
nothing. This is just absolutely crazy.
Date: Sat, 20 Jan 2001
From: Ron
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: PENSKE!!!!!
Mr. Wizard,
It's Roger PENSKE..... Please spell it right !
No one likes to see their "Name" misspelled. They can tolerate other
words not being correct but not their name.
Thanks,
Ron
Mon Jan 22
Date: Sun, 21 Jan 2001
From: chris
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: proline
i have heard rumors of the sale of proline boats ,is there any truth to
this?
Date: Sun, 21 Jan 2001
From:XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bonuses
From xxxxx
This is absolutly nuts that the courts would allow this to happen when so many good
people got screwed by these bandits. I could even expense account money they owed
me before chapter 11 plus final pay check I was promised was never delivered. The
more they can screw you all the bigger there bonus. What about the WARN ACT are
the courts going to do anything about that? Where are all of the lawyers to defend the
thousands of people here who is being screwed by the courts and a hand full bigots.
Thanks, Screwed Again
Date: Mon, 22 Jan 2001
From: T
To: Gary Polson
Cc: Rob Roehrborn
Subject: Re: ex-OMC Position Openings
The Ariens Company, a leading manufacturer of outdoor power equipment
located in NE Wisconsin, is seeking a number of professional and managerial
employees.
More specifically, current job openings include:
* Senior Project Engineers
* Designers
* Model Makers
* Manufacturing Engineers
* Production Supervisors
* Purchasing professionals
* Product Managers (marketing)
* Programmer/Analysts
The contact person for any OMC employees interested in opportunities with
the Ariens Company would be our Corporate Recruiter, Rob Roehrborn.
Rob may be reached by any of the following means
Mail: Rob Roehrborn
Corporate Recruiter
Ariens Company
655 W. Ryan St.
Brillion, WI 54110
Tel: 920-756-4318
Fax: 920-756-4366
email: rroehrborn@ariens.com
For more information on the Ariens company, I encourage any interested
candidates to visit our website at www.ariens.com.
Thanks for Your Help,
Date: Mon, 22 Jan 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
Just printed out document from RACER that was filed 01/17/01 by attorneys
for Orbital Engine Corporation(good history lesson).
- Objection to proposed assumption and assignment of executory
contracts in connection with the debtors' proposed sale of substantially
all of their assets, including objection to proposed cure amount
From what I read doesn't seem like the "FICHT" trademark is going to sell for anything
unless OEC (Orbital) says it is okay. I am curious what constitutes a "substantial
payment that was due to OEC on December 1,2000".
Tues Jan 23
Date: Mon, 22 Jan 2001
From: OMC
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: job fair
Please post that OMC is working in conjunction with
the Illinois Department of Workforce Development and The College of Lake
County hosting a Job Fair on Wednesday, January 31, 2001 1 PM to 5 PM.
The job fair will be held at the College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus,
111 North Genesse Street, Waukegan, IL, North Building Conference Center.
Approximately 40 employers will be represented looking for employees of all
disciplines. Please bring a resume to the job fair.
if employers are interested in participating in job fair or simply sending
postings/company information, please refer them to the college of lake
county, career development center at (847) 543-2059. they should tell
the career center they are interested in the omc job fair.
Thanks!
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: employment
Challenger Offshore has immediate openings for the following positions:
laminating,hand lay up,mold building, rigging, and final assembly. See
our site at www.challengeroffshore.com.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: Riverside
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: job opening
Riverside Marine Remanufacturing located in Little Rock, AR. is looking for a
qualified technician to assemble powerheads. Riverside has been rebuilding
powerheads since the 1970s. We have produced more than 14,000 units. This is
a full time job with year-round work. Contact us at Riversidersmtjb@aol.com
or 501-372-0985. Contact name is Tom Booth.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: cobra insurance
Sirs,
FYI, just recieved by certified mail, the Cobra insurance premium rates
for a family of two per month. $ 630.57 for medical and dental. Only
$ 570.52 for just medical, .....gosh what a deal.
Let's see if I have this right. While the "key" omc corporate lawer
Romano gets a reported "bonus" of $400,000.00 to "hang in there", and
execs like Wainscott and Rusk, have to tough it out and bump along
with roughly half that, they, in their collective wisdom, have all gotten
together and were gracious enough to offer us ex-working stiffs insurance
we can't afford. Is that salt I feel in my open wound? This "let em eat
cake" attitude really XXXXXX me off.
Bottom line, after decades of service to omc, I lose my job, no
severance, no anything, (can't afford basic health insurance), but omc
finds it necessary to really assist the people that were at least partially
responsible for driving a fine old company into the ground. It looks like
they own the judges too, for them to be okay with this. At least I'll sleep
tonight. Thanks for letting me get this off my chest.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: xxxx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: 401K monies
From xxxx
I understood that on the 17 of this month these monies were going to be
paid out. Has anyone out there recieved anything yet? We need this money
to pay for insurance and put food on the table not for retirement.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: j
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Four Winns Warranty
I had factory authorized warranty work started prior to the chapter 11 date of
OMC. In fact, the work was completed and the bill submitted 3 days before the
chapter 11 was filed. Now the xxxxxxxx are refusing to pay the shop. They
(Four Winns) are shopping for a buyer, and the buyers are looking to pick up the
boat business without the burden of any outstanding warranty claims. That sucks.
I for one hope they realize that if they screw the boat owners their brand name
won't be worth a damn.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: C
To: Gary
Subject: Re: North Shore gas filing on the OMC bankruptcy docket 1/22
it is unbelievable, that i as an employee, working over those contaminated
sites, did NOT know that OMC was back in courts over clean up.
they never mentioned anything to us....
i worked there since 1980...god knows, what i have ingested... we had
coffee makers which used local water lines.....things like that...
i think you are right, people sped past the omimous forboding of yor
article..i didn't i read it....
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Milwaukee
The OMC backruptcy has not had much local news coverage in the
Milwaukee area. Any news we retired employees do come accross is via the
internet, a lot from the e-group at
http://www.egroups.com/group/OMC-Alumni ...I must congratulate those
employees from OMC Waukegan for their effort. I'm sure there are
aproximately 800-1000 Milwaukee past employees or retirees that will be
effected with the outcome of OMC and the future of retirement benefits.
Those that didn't spot the very small article in the business section of
the Milw. Journal/Sentinal, or those that don't have a computer at home,
probably are not aware of what's going on.
A book about OMC was distributed to employees around November 30,
1992 titled "Evirude-Johnson and The Legend of OMC" by Jeffery L.
Rodengen. To those that recieved the book, it was a keepsake. I can
remember Ralph Evirude visiting the plant many times. Our United
Steelworkers of America Local 1302 were a proud group of talented
machinists making a quality product.
What a shame it was to watch this company start to come apart after
Ralph Evinrude passed on. Immediately many of the local departments were
transferred to Waukegan under the control of Strang. What followed was
the sale of many OMC affiliates such as companys that made chainsaws,
sailboats, Ryan Lawn Equipment, golf carts, lawnmowers, etc. What once
was a dervisified company became an all-out outboard motor company. "We
want to be the Number-One Outboard maker in the world!" was our new
motto. Need I say more? Yup!
Then came the closing of our assembly plant, to take the trade south
for cheaper labor. It didn't matter that twice the employees were needed
to accomplish the same output, that they lacked experience, it was the
bottom line on hourly wages. "Just-In-Time" production was then
introduced to reduce floor inventory, but w/o the added machines to do
seperate operations, setup time sky-rocketed. This of course was a
different account and costs of setup time wasn't reflected in the
cost-per-unit. That all lead to overtime costs that otherwise weren't
needed until our "Hot" season and cost-effective.
ISO-9000 was introduced later, and to convince the employees of it's
benefits, a phone-pager was used as an example of how good the theory
worked. DUH, a product the size of a pack of smokes sure isn't like an
outboard motor! We really didn't have anything against a new quality
program, but we had only a very few qualified ISO inspectors, and they
eliminated many floor inspectors. Quality programs were then set up in
each department with input from employees during meetings. Problem was
our two cents worth didn't change operations. I guess they didn't want
to hear that management was passing the buck, and they didn't seem to
acknowledge the fact that we on the floor knew what worked. We just
couldn't convince them that it was in our best interests too to make a
quality product as cheap as they wanted. I always felt that a quality
product commanded a higher price, kind of like buying a Caddy or
Lincoln...if you market it right it will sell. Marketing?..That's
another issue, the Milw. boat show used to have OMC guys in blazers
promoting our products in a seperate area w/many of our engines
displayed. They switched to having boat makers display our engines on
their boats, that's it! When was the last time you seen a OMC ad on TV?
When that didn't work, they bought boat companies to make sure they
sold.
Belgium machined our small crankshafts after they pulled those out,
then it was decided that they would bring them back. So some bright
management employee decided to have all their equipment shipped to
Milwaukee. Not only was the equipment out-dated, it rusted on the way
over on the ship! Oh, did I mention that all the machines were European
Electrically wired? Controls were maked in the foreign language. And
some appeared damaged by personnel? OMC dumped mega-bucks into trying to
get them to run, it didn't work, not even one! Opp's, I forgot to
mention OMC had to pay that country mega-bucks to pull out of Belguim,
something about the way foreign companies pulling out had to pay past
employees there.
Ficht came along, and we on the shop floor thought this may be our
savior. Actually it was for awhile, but the Bozo's decided to place that
highly close-tollerance equipment on the shop floor next to oily
vibrating grinders and other equipment, at first w/o cutting the
concrete floors for anti-vibration. Ya know, it's hard to hold micro
finishes that way! Finally the equipment was placed in confined areas,
but rework comtinued to be high, while trying to combine the correct
springs ( spring pressure) to matching parts for correct testing
tollerances. They did a mix and match thing there, rework, rework, then
rework until it passed the test! Actually if you look at a drawing
comparing a Ficht fuel injector vs. a GM fuel injector on a 350 cu.in.
LT1, the design sucks! It's all in those fine springs of the Ficht
design that makes them work properly. The rest of the unit is workable.
My guess is if you own a Ficht and it's not working, check the
springs...of course I would imagine that tempature changes effect the
spring.
Highly close tollerance operations of crankshafts and connecting
rods were then sent to other companies as they tried to reduce labor
costs and shut down the Milw. plant. They even had a Chinese company try
to make con-rods...do you have anything at home made in China that's
worth while? Hey, how about that Kia., nice car hey? Remember the Yugo?,
sorry to say we bombed the factory, hope you don't need parts. During
this time, employees retired and were then hired back as consultants to
train the new driveshaft workers in other states. I believe this is at
the time Soros invested another ton of moola into OMC. Problem was the
new crankshaft company didn't use the old experienced employees of that
company to do our work, they hired new help. How does one replace 30
year employees X's at least 350 employees around 1998 = 10,500 years of
eperienced shop floor machining? My guess is NO-CAN-DO!
While our employees started retiring, OMC found it necessary to hire
new employees off of the street. Rumor has it half couldn't pass the
drug test. My trainee couldn't find 5/8 of an inch on a ruler, then try
to train him to keep .003" tollerance! I spent 18 months trying to train
this dude ( I really did) and when operatons seased in Milw., he knew
the same as when he was hired. The same type of conditions existed when
our retired employees hired as consultants tried to train new employees
for our crankshaft and con-rod operations in year 2000. Actually that's
not a lot ( .003") , but the operaton I was speaking of was a pre-finish
operation. Bottom line, rumor in Milwaukee is that during many of the
changes that were put in place, management knew they made mistakes, but
it was too late too bring some of the operations back to the "Rust-Belt"
areas of Waukegan and Milwaukee. We sometimes wondered how OMC kept
afloat making so many errors in judgement. We knew it was coming, just
didn't know when.
The preceding was just a sample of many more decisions that were
made while I was employed for OMC, there are many more war stories out
here to be told. I'll leave that to others if they wish to share them.
I guess my point of writing this is let people know that the
employees of OMC Milwaukee USWA Local 1302, and I imagine other shop
floor employees of other plants were not the blame of OMC's demise, and
should not have to suffer for the mistakes of our so-called leaders.
While they sip martinies in their mega-buck homes, a product of their
golden parachutes, we wonder about our futures.
Hopefully the bankruptcy judge in this case has enough common sense
and moral judgement to keep us in mind. And I hope this isn't just
wishful thinking.
Best wishes to ALL ex-employees of OMC.
Wed Jan 24
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Who wants Evinrude and Johnson?
I have just recieved a call stating that At least one company has made
a considerable offer for the engines and includes a warranty clause. If
this proves to be true, dealers will soon get some much needed good news.
We will see,
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: George Soros NPR Ficht Statement
George Soros Jan 22 quote "There were problems with the [Ficht]
engines that could not be fixed" is totally WRONG!!!! I am not an OMC
employee, but have been intimately involved with the Ficht engines and
its issues since early 1995. The Ficht was brought to the marketplace
prematurely under Bowman's tenure as CEO and, in fact, did have many
unacceptable characteristics. But, the Ficht programs initiated under
Jones and Gowens were about 85-90 % implemented when Soros pulled
the plug for financial reasons. The Ficht outboard product is viable and
competitive in the marketplace. The prospective new Johnson/Evinrude
owners should be made aware of the significant differences between the
"original" Ficht and the "present" Ficht.
The only thing that cannot be fixed is the damage inflicted on OMC's
efforts to sell Johnson/Evinrude by Soros's wreckless comments.
Thanks, M
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC and Orbital engine
If possible please read docket #219 of the bankruptcy proceedings. Orbital
alledges that OMC did not supply all documents to the court in regards to OMC
license agreement with Orbital. Omc also neglected to inform the court of
Orbitals out of court patent win against their Ficht technology.Orbital seems
to be saying that OMC can not sell said technology.
If that is true,what would happen to the licensees of Fitch that are
producing PWC's and if OMC owes money to Orbital what good is the engine
division without 2-stroke advanced technology.
R
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Warranty
What a tragedy this whole ordeal is for all the rank and file employees
of OMC. Hopefully they find employment with other employers who care
more about their employees welfare. It would be hard to do any worse
than they did with OMC.
I had been a faithful Johnson customer for many years. Now I'm sitting
with a warranty card on a new Johnson 130 that I could just as well
throw in the trash the way it sounds.
It was pretty disheartening to go to the Minneapolis boat show last week.
The first dealer I talked to happened to be a Suzuki dealer. When he
asked what I had for a motor and I told him, what a terrible face he made.
He further stated, "I sure hope you are not planning on trading that
motor." When I inquired as to his comment he further stated, "Nobody
will take that in on trade. They are out of business you know." I looked
him in the eye and said, "Oh OMC is big enough that they won't be gone
for long." I hope I am right. It's too bad some dealers are trying to take
advantage of a situation which has been such a tragedy for the employees
of OMC.
I'm certainly glad I made that $8000.00 investment! Hopefully someone
at least buys the engine division to make replacement parts. Perhaps
that will make my investment worth enough to at least trade it in on
another brand of motor.
X-OMC Customer in WI
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: ken
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
has any body put bid on all of omc.if so how long do think it be before
they start burnsville...........do you know who the high bidder is??????????
............thank you.
Thurs Jan 25
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Omc Wife
I have just been reading some of the veiwer feedbacks and agree with
alot af them. My husband has been with OMC for over 15 years or I should
say "had been" and I have seen him work 18 hrs a day trying to solve
problems. The OMC Facility he was at I got to know alot of his
co-workers and was amazed at the dedecation in that facility,from the
floor to the engineers and the managers and even the plant manager.I
just want to say to all Ex-OMC employees try to keep a positive outlook,
I know it is extremely had right now but God will take care of us if we
just ask and trust in Him! I have read all the comments about Roger
Fix. I agree with them all!This man has to be the most cold hearted
person I have ever heard of!
I just wonder if he realizes how many lives he has affected by taking
what is to me "the easy way out" Mr. Fix if you read these feedbacks and
you read this one I want you to know that you are in my prayers.I hope
some day you will realize how many lives you have affectedby the
dicission you made,not only the employees of OMC but the dealers as
well, and did you hear of one OMC ex-employee that tried to kill
themself luckly they did not suceed.Ih hope you in the future Mr. Fix in
what ever other buisness you get into istead of taking the easy way out
will consider others before making such life distroying dicisions, Mr.
Fix fraom what I can hear is set for life with his 5 million while other
ex-omc employees just try to put food on the table and a roof over their
heads. I hope he is happy. Good luck to all Ex-OMC employees.May God
Bless All Of You.
Please do not use my e-mail address on this letter thanks
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: Recovery Room
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: job opportunity
Please post this or contact me with any question.
Thank you in advance.
Immediate opening for someone with experience in the field of marine canvas
and upholstery. (fit, sew and install boat tops, enclosures, seating, interiors,
etc.). Prefer someone with knowledge in all areas, but will train with a good
base knowledge and a willingness to learn.
Shop located in the Panhandle of Florida. We have been in business in the
same area since 1978
Job will be full time 40 hour week, minimal or no weekends, insurance and
retirement benefits. Possible relocation compensation.
Contact Chip: 1-800-CANVAS4 days
1-850-235-1809 eves
1-850-233-6481 fax
e-mail: recovery-room@home.com
Chip Lueck
Recovery Room
1809 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: Ron
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
I am looking to buy a boat, Hydra Sport with twin 250HP Evenrudes.
Dealer is offering 2 year engine warranties through First Protection
Corp. Have you ever heard of them?
RBBI Comment: They have a billboard looking web site at
http://www.fpccorporation.com
There are a few firms of this nature. We run into Warranty Direct now
and then http://www.warrantydirect.com
A viewer wished to post information below:
Just bringing to your attention that any purchaser of that part of OMC which
includes the Ficht technology is in for a serious legal headache from Orbital
Engine Co (developers of Optimax technology).
OMC has already agreed to a settlement against a patent infringement action
by Orbital which requires payment to Orbital (which OMC has defaulted on)
and restricts transfer of Orbital IP (and hence the utility of Ficht technology,
which is dependent on it).
Orbital is also concerned that OMC is not telling prospective purchasers the
full story:
Oribital message board
postwith some details, and link:
9 page document filed on behalf of Orbital giving details.
http://207.41.17.23/ECM/bc_images/__0AV1ESTZZ51201646.tif
RBBI Comment: We pointed this out on the bankruptcy proceedings page discussing
the documents filed Jan 17 in the case docket. Suspect many have not yet seen
them. The docket item is a tiff document and requires a special viewer, info is at
top of the Bankruptcy procedure page.
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bids are due
Hello Gary,
Hold on to your hat. The closed bids are due tomorrow and the rumors
will fly. I will be happy with any new owner after having no company
behind us. My wish is that the motor company will be purchased and
that we will go back to work. The boat companies are important to
many dealers also. Once the bids are in, we will find out just how
valuable the OMC products really are . Being an OMC dealer and selling
OMC boats has doubled the impact on us. I love OMC products and call
me a fool, but I pray for their return. I will also take on other lines. All
my eggs in one motor crate is not going to happen again.
Tomorrow ,
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: Sonny
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Fire hazzard??
Dear sir, I would like to address this to the field rep that presented
his statement on the potential fire hazzard on the 200 Fichts. I have a
pair of model year 2000, 200's. I noticed this past fall, occasionally a
smell of gas fumes. My dealer credited it to perhaps the vent for the
fuel tank expecially after filling. I let it go at that, however after
reading these reports, it appears that it may be internal on the
engines. I would appreciate any info as you stated you have on this
potential problem. I'm not up to getting "burnt to death" or have to
jump into my own shark chum slick. Thanks.
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Please do not use my e-mail address,Thanks
Hey Wiz, I just want you to know that you sure have been a big help to
alot of Ex-OMC employees. I know it has helped them/us get some things
off our chests. I am not an ex-omc employee but my husband is. I have
been reading your veiwer feedback since this tragedity happened.I have
to agree with alot of peoples veiws. There is one thing we need to do
and that is to try to keep a positve outlook on this situation, I just
don't see the Johnson and Evinrude Industry shutting completly down it
has been around for too many years. Some one will want to buy it I hope.
and maybe It will be some one who cares about people.My husband had been
with OMC for over 15 years and was very dedicated just like alot of
other OMC employees I had come to know, you will never find more
dedicated people than what was employed at all OMC plants. All of this
can not be blamed on just one person but a group of people, if OMC was
in that bad of trouble why were the employees not aware? My husband was
in Managment and he had no clue that it would come to this. Even the
plant Manager of that plant did not know. But these guys in UPPER
Manegment should have and could have given some warning insted of doing
such dedicated employees the way they did.My veiw on Roger Fix is he has
to be the most col hearted person I have ever heard of! In my opion he
just took the easy way out and said to XXXX with everyone else.I hope
one day Mr. Fix realizes how many lives he affected, not only OMC
employees but anyone that was impacted by his doings.The old saying is
that "What goes around comes around" I hate to see anyone have to go
thru what OMC Ex-Employees have had to.Mr.Fix can go to bed at night
with all of his millions and not have to worry where the next meal for
his family is going to come from or if you have enough oil to last the
rest of the winter and if you are going to be able to keep a roof over
your families heads. But one day Mr.Fix may be in the same fix we are.
I wish all of the ex-OMC employees the very best and May God Bless Each
and Everyone Of You. Wife of Ex-OMC Employee
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC FICHT
Do you know of any sites that have information (true or otherwise) on Ficht.
I would especially like to read about any engineering and performance
reports produced by OMC engineers and how they fixed any of the problems,
The technology still comes across (to me) as the best and simplest.
Sat Jan 27
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: Ken
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: TO OMC DEALERS
Come to: www.egroups.com/group/omc-dealers-alumni
an e-mail group where dealers can share info, and perhaps locate parts
they need or offer parts to other dealers - help each other out!!
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Pearl Harbour
Geez, with Brunswick actually making money these past years in a booming
economy, badmouthing the coming boating season, and closing four of their own
boat plants, sure sounds like the Merc boys are trying to position themselves
to be a real player in this omc bankcrupcy fiasco. (all I might add, without
raping their employee's pension fund like Jone's did to OMC's, to the tune of
22 million a couple of years ago). Sounds like their managemnt actually has
a clue. All I can say is, hope you don't retain Romano, Wainscot, Rusk and
all the rest of our "key employee's". If you do, expect to lose money and be
out of business soon. Just for the record, I have bled Evinrude Blue my
entire life (more decades than I want to admit to). However, if the black
stacks from Fondulac can stave off foreigners, you have my allegiance, for
what that's worth. (I have it on good authority, my old friend, Mr. Ralph
Evinrude, is now turning up to 120 rpm in his grave). Be careful MERC, lots
of snakes in the grass. (Excuse me now, I have to go puke.)
respectfully,
RBBI Note: From his e-mail address, the gentleman below is in Russia
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: Sergey Sapojkov ulasport@mtu-net.ru
To: wizard
Dear Mr. Wizard,
We are looking for OMC dealer (former or active), who may be interested
in his stock clearance - we need to purchase Johnson outboards and spare parts.
May be you will find possibility to help us with small portion of your wizardry.
Thank you in advance,
Sergei
Date: Sat, 27 Jan 2001
From: M down under
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: demise of OMC
I find it very hard to read about the demise of such a company as OMC,I have grown
using and enjoying many OMC products and recently became the owner of a Ficht
outboard. Reliability seems to be the complaint many make but being an Australian
I would like to commend the OMC product as during the recent Sydney 2000 Olympics
the harbour of Sydney hosted the sailing and the waterways authority controlled huge
amounts of spectator and racing craft for many long hard hours enjoying high reliability
with Ficht outboards.
Whatever the outcome of events may it be swift so we may get back to enjoying our
watersport, and those employees of OMC return to work, Our thoughts and foremost
with you.
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: xxxx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bids open today
From xxxx
Well today is the big day in that the bids are going to be opened for all of
OMC divisions. I believe were going to find little or no interest on the engine
side other than the the trade names of Johnson & Evinrude probably to the
Japanese's and that's to bad to sad for the American worker. Another nail
in our coffin. Our unions in this country had better wake up and start fighting
for our jobs before there all gone. I don't mean higher wages and more benifits,
I mean start with strong negotiations that work with companies on improvements
in policing out the dead beats that eventually cost us all our jobs. We all
know who they are and this has been one of the unions down falls in the past
50 years. Instead of protecting the interest of 98% of good employee's they
have opted to protect the 2% of dead beats, which cost companies tons of
monies. Wake up unions and go to work for the majority of people you represent
or keep sending our work to other countries. We always blame the companies
( and some is there ) but fail to look at ourselfs and only let the radicals drive
the process which leads to what we have today.
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Love that RudeRam 225
Mr. Wizard,
Thanks for providing up to date information on the proceedings with
OMC. I've been following this site since Dec. and I'm happy to be
able to remain informed. I'm writing today to point out something that
seems to be missing from the past comments. It came to me when I
read the Brunswick article posted yesterday.
In a nutshell, Brunswick reports less then stellar earnings in the motor
business during the last quarter of 2000. Buckley claims this is due to
a weakening market and a forecasted decrease in sales. My thoughts
on this are a little different and it raises an interesting question. Is it
possible that sales were off as a result of competition from OMC?
I believe this may be possible and here's why; Everyone I've talked to
who buys a new boat each year (guides, tournament fishermen, fanatics,
etc...) has 86'ed their Mercury or Yamaha to go with Evinrude. Granted I
may not know that many people but, it says a lot to me when someone
drops a Mercury sponsorship so they can hang an Evinrude off the back of
their boat. To go a step further let me point out that last weekend at
the Minneapolis Boat Show dealers were still taking orders for 225
RudeRams on new boats. Yep that's right.... People are knowingly
spending 2000-3000 more for an Evinrude they may or may not be able
to get.
I think OMC's problems are a blessing for Brunswick. I haven't talked to
anyone who's been too thrilled about the new Optimax and most have been
looking forward to going to Evinrude. Especially those buying 225 HP
motors. I would be very interested in Evinrude's backlog. Based on what
I've seen I would suspect that 2001 sales are strong. I know myself and
many others are crossing our fingers hoping all goes well this week.
We'd really like to get our boats with the Evinrudes we ordered and not
have to go back to Mercury or Yamaha. I wish the OMC employees the best
luck and sincerely hope things work out for all of us, employees and
consumers alike.
Just a man on the street...
Please withhold e-mail address
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: No Credible buyers for Evin and John
Many say that nobody will buy Evinrude and Johnson as a going concern. I say
they will. We will know soon. If I am correct, I will survive as a boat dealer. If I
am wrong, I will not.
Wish us Luck,
Evinrude and Johnson dealer
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
I have no additional Information to give you. I line in Omaha, Nebraska.
My local Stratos Dealer here (Action Marine, Council Bluffs, IA) is standing
firmly behind their OMC products. They are confident a reputable company
will buy OMC's division Stratos/Javelin. When asked if they would carry
another line of products they said no.
I however have great concerns. You see I have shopped around and I really
like the Stratos 2001 20SS Extreme. But I just can't buy a boat that has no
warranty. Furthermore, it is becoming evident that the engines will go by
the way side after the final bid is awarded.
What do I do? I can wait this out but I don't think this will be resolved
by this spring. Why doesn't Brunswick take over the Evinrude and Johnson
engines? I would love to see a Stratos boat with a Mercury behind it.
Can you please advise?
Date: Sat, 27 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Confused
Could it be possible that Brunswick closed 4 plants and put out a negative article
about the acquisition of Evinrude and Johnson out of fear?
Mon Jan 29
Date: Sat, 27 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: New Owners
I prognosticate that anyone who pays 70 or 80 million is not going to wait
months to operate. If the judge wants money she will have to release the
engine group to the new owners and the vulture lawyers will have to feed
elsewhere. I say again" the engines will sell and will operate in a timely
fashion. The CEO of Brunswick will have to live with a large company with
deep pockets. Brunswick can wish in one hand and ---- in the other .
Look for Evinrude and Johnson to come back stronger. I smell good news
for customers and dealers by next week.
we will see,
Date: Sat, 27 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
I think it is time for the dealers to start filing law suits against Transamerica.
I believe Transamerica was a major lender to OMC. Also they have lenders
liability. To show how out of touch OMC is, they are discounting engines
only 20%. Who, I ask, would take an engine for nothing that had no
parts being manufactured and no warranty. Along with that, the main guy,
Soros says the engines don't work. It is time for someone to organize a class
action suite against Transamerica, and today is not too soon to start.
Date: Sat, 27 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Upgrade Kits
Please do not use my name.
If you have a 150-hp thru 225-hp Evinrude Ficht Model Year 1999 thru
2000 then you need to contact your dealer and get the Fuel System
Enhancement kits on your engine. The kits for the 3.0L engines (200hp
and 225-hp) include Horseshoe clamps and grade 8 screws to replace
the belvile washers and substandard screws to retain the fuel injectors.
Kits also includes retention straps for the fuel injectors and convoluted
tubing to cover all plastic fuel lines.The 3.3 L engines have incorporated
new fixes and they do not have a problem.
This is really important for you and your family. Please, Please, Please
contact your dealers and ask about the kits. They came out just before the
bankrupcy and teams were going to install them on all engines. The 150-hp
and 175-hp need the retention straps as a minimum.
I am losing alot of sleep over this at night. Please, Please, Please !!!!!
contact your dealer ASAP and do not run your boat until you have these
important kits installed.
Thank you.
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: Asian dealer
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: a little bit more omc news and views
A sad, funny little side story...
As an OMC dealer under OMC Asia, we too have sweated and suffered this
time of waiting and wondering...and hoping. Recently we were told by OMC
Asia that we could buy parts once again, of course with 100% prepayment.
So, there was a little glow at the end of the tunnel, then the very next day
we learned that they would close from Jan 23 to Jan 29 for Chinese New Year.
Just can't win.
As with all the others, no names published please.
Date: Sun, 28 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Wake Up Government
What's wrong with picture? The court awards bonuses for people that run a
company into bankruptcy! ? Free trade with China? who cares about the working
man? The democrats? the Unions? everyone cares about me me me (Brunswick)
(merc dealers) sooner rather than later we must figure out we as Americans
have given up enough already for the world good its time to come together for
All American's and American company's before its too late! it may be
already for the people of Waukegan there schools wont be able to operate
without the tax money from OMC not to mention calhoon Georgia and many other
communities and familles God Bless them all or better yet. (Just Wake Up!)
Date: Sun, 28 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Hint
Bom Bom Bom Bom Bom Bom Bom bar d a a a
just a hint,
Date: Sun, 28 Jan 2001
From: k
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: w2s
have you heard anything about omc not sending out their employees w2s.
Date: Mon, 29 Jan 2001
From: w
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Question
Do you know who I might contact to find out if there is truth in the statement
posted in your website titled "OMC employees fight for pensions" that states
"the recent looting of in excess of $22 million from the OMC pension plan in
possible violation of the provisions of ERISA will require investigation by
employees, their representatives and the court".
As a former employee with a large part of my future retirement tied up in the
OMC pension fund, I am naturally deeply concerned about this, and how that
will affect my retirement plans. To date, we have had zero communication from
the company-no letter, nothing.
If you have the names of the law firms representing OMC employees, former
employees and retirees, I ask that you e-mail me that information as well.
Thank you.
RBBI Comment: OMC has filed to block the forming of the past and current
employees and retirees committee. Legal representation details are in the
Docket Document # 259 filed Jan 22. Instructions on access to it are near
the top of our OMC Files Bankruptcy page.
Date: Mon, 29 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC fires
As a victim of an 200FICHT explosin and fire I would like very much
to contact XXX who wrote the excellent piece on the subject dated
1/14/01. Can you help me?
RBBI Comment: We forwarded his note to the gentleman.
Date: Mon, 29 Jan 2001
From: Richard
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: W-2's
Burnsville employees are receiving W-2's now.
Date: Mon, 29 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: W2s
No names please....
In response to 'k's question about W2 forms, we received ours today.
We are formerly of the Spruce Pine,NC facility, but I assume that makes
no difference.
You should receive yours soon.
Tues Jan 30
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: s
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Upgrade kits
XX I think you are full off it there have been no engine fires due to the
fuel injectors or any other part of the
FICHT design. I don't know who you are but I think that your are just
trying to stir up trouble.
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
Please do not use e-mail address if you post this message. The "word" is that
Mercury will end up with the aluminum boat companies (Lowe,etc.) and then
immediately sell them to someone that will sign a long term agreement to only
use Mercury engines. (that is a lot of transoms to get control of) In regards
to Mercury not being in the hunt for the rest of it due to market share.
There is a relatively new law that would allow them to buy everything if it
was in the best interest of the economy, consumers, and employees. Don't
count them out as yet.
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Cc: _redrocket5@excite.com
Subject: OMC
Mr. Wizard
Please do not use my name or e-mail.
Why would OMC file to block the forming of the past and current employees and
retirees committee, unless they have something to hide?
Mr. Wizard response: Will only be so much money left to go around after the
bankruptcy court. Suspect management would much rather have it in their pockets
than yours.
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC doesn't even know it's founder
I read with some amusement the press release from OMC that made reference to
Ole' Evinrude the founder of the company. Ole Evinrude is Norwegian, not
Spanish- no "'" after the e. I realize it's a little thing but indicative
of the gross incompetence and lack of understanding of the business. By the
way, as an ex employee, my daughter receives the OMC foundation scholarship
and DID get a check last week. Too bad none of the employees (Romano, et
al, notwithstanding) did.
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Soooooooo??
Hiya Gary,
Weren't we supposed to hear about who the bidders were for the different comapanies
by now?
RBBI Comment: Published terms say bid winners to be announced by noon
Friday Feb 2nd. Bidders to get seat at Monday Feb 5th 9am auction and can modify
(raise) bids at that time.
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Engine sale
Rumor has it that one company has put forth a substantial bid for the engine
operation and the parts. Whether or not this transfers into an actual sale and
operation of the motor group, I do not know. Most of the boat companies are
going to be bought. Friday is the announcement of the highest bidders and I
believe that monday is the auction. After that we will have news. I have a lot
at stake. I am and remain hopeful that a large company with deep pockets will
buy and operate Evinrude and Johnson. By next week, we will know the verdict.
Wed Jan 31
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: Ed
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Fires
"S" how can you expect anybody to take you seriously when you make a
statement like "there have been no Ficht fires'. Did you poll all owners
or what. I am personally aware of three such ocurrences in my vicinity
alone (one of which was my own). Just why do you think OMC came out
with an "upgrade kit" anyway? What really bothers me is that someone
may not recognize you for the fool that you are and end up paying a
heavy price.
The guy who begged us not to use these engines without the kit was
absolutely right. His admonition came from his head and his heart.
"S" we know what part of your anatomy your message came from!
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Upgrade Kits
Please do not use my name.
To S on your reply about problems with fuel injectors . Please check out the
recent court documents now published on the new effort to include completion
of the safety recalls. OMC and it's employees did their best to implement
redesigns and correct the situation but the investors pulled the plug at the
start of the upgrades. I know I speak for many people in that we want to do
what is right and get this fixed but it will now take forced action to follow
thru and get the funding. I am stepping up to the plate because I never
compromise my values.
You can also contact the Coast Guard in Washington, DC. They are collecting
the data.
You might also contact your local dealer on the enhancment kits and see what
they include and ask yourself why each item is required.
I am one person who puts peoples welfair above my own gain. I am stepping out
of the box because few others will and I'll do my best to ensure the upgrades
are incorporated.
You might also try to contact the dealer who had an investigation ongoing
prior to banckrupcy. He wrote a note back on this web site earlier in the
month. This is one issue that I hope you will follow up on and investigate
for yourself and your family.
I have your safety in mind here and only trying to do what is right for you
and everyone else. The right thing will be done in the end and sometimes that
is painful but not doing the right thing would be more than painful.
If you feel you do not get answers by contacting the people above, please
write again on this website and I will try to steer you to another contact.
RBBI Comment: In terms of the court documents on recalls, he
is talking about the Jan 24 Document # 289 on the court docket. Details can
be viewed from our Bankruptcy Proceedings page.
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: s
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: D
In response to Jan 30 message from D
> Why would OMC file to block the forming of the past and current
> employees and retirees committee, unless they have something to hide?
>
> Mr. Wizard response: Will only be so much money left to go around after
>the bankruptcy court. Suspect management would much rather have it in
> their pockets than yours.
>
Responding to: D
Let us clarify this, Management is Soros, Rusk, Muerlot, ect.
Not my Management.
Thanks,
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: Don
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: concerned 99 200 ficht owner
I would like some advise on what if anything I can do now, or once the
Evenrude Johnson line is bought about my engine problems, I have had
the engine in for service repeatedly since purchasing around feb. 99. I
have had all updates to my knowledge installed and it allways seems to
be something going wrong. Just recently the engine started running rough
and not performing well. I took it in and it was diagnosed with a bad injector.
Due to the bankruptcy no injector is available. The dealer informed me
that it would be ok to run the engine, but advised me that it would not
perform to its full potential, I waited two weeks and ran the engine.
Only to have the lower unit go out. Now I'm sitting here with a motor
with a bad injector and trashed lower unit. I feel I am long over due for a
complete new engine. Please Help!. I would like to add that my warranty
expires 03/31/01.
Mr Wizard Comment: Hate to be the one to break this to you,
but your warranty expired back in Dec 2000 when OMC declared Bankruptcy.
You may have a chance with new owners (if the unit responsible for your
product is sold). But those details will not be known till after the successful
sale of the division.
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 2001
From: Bob
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: OMC Bidders
Mr. Wizard,
Do you know who the bidders are for the respective parts of OMC? Has this
information been released?
Mr Wizard response: Again, the published procedure is the first round
winning bids are to be announced to those on the court service list by noon
Friday Feb 2. Second round auction composed only of those submitting qualified
bids in round one, occurs 9am in Chicago Monday Feb 5. Those results are to
be reviewed and approved or rejected by the bankruptcy court sale hearing
2pm Thurs Feb 8.
I visited with the firm handling the first round auction yesterday. They said only
those on the service list would receive notification of first round results. They
expected a few leaks to the media would result from the parties involved, but
pointed out these are only preliminary results anyway. The second round could
drastically change the outcomes and even those could be changed by the court.
The firm pointed out the court hearing will be open to the public and covered
by Dow Jones and other media representatives.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Entry 338 "Stay to permit setoffs of dealer rebates
against dealer Receivables
looks like OMC is going after some of the dealers rebates to post to open
receivables. go to bankruptcy file, case imaging, eastern division,
case 0037405, check reverse order on docket. entry 338. isn't this interesting?
"in the debtor's discretion"....
no email address pls
RBBI Comments: See our Bankruptcy Proceedings page to find
the document referenced above.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC floorplan financing
C'mon Wizard,
Hey, I know fer shure that the Lizard King Soros, his assistant Troll (the
infamous Mr.Fix), and the notorious gang of goons (aka 157 key employees)
just made another honest mistake in regards to Transamerica's floorplan
finanacing checks. Rumors of them hiding out under a bridge in the corporate
building and trying to bushwack anyone with more than coffee money, Are just
plain not true !!!!
And just because the hapless victims, after being drubbed, always hear:
(You're late, you're 158, take a number and wait) ...I'm telling ya is just
heresay, trust me, doesn't prove a thing...... hey.......... where'd my
wallet go?
( Keep up the great work! We truly need a Wizard for this sorry saga!)
Mr. Wizard response: Thanks for shedding some humour on an otherwise
dismal situation. Looks like you might have a brilliant 2nd career in journalism.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: Transamerica
Anonymous please !
You may want to check and see if Transamerica paid OMC for all of those
invoices TA wants the dealers to pay to them.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: F
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: omc
We are one of the larger Mercury dealers in the country but still had an OMC
dlr # for a few parts (only about $20,000.00 per year) and have a parts
balance on dating from last fall. Ironically they sent a notice that it was
due immediately....ho-ho.....I have recently thought it would be nice if
there were dealers in similar situation that when these invoices are really
due we paid it to a fund to help some of the dealers or ex-employees (good
ones) who got hurt in this fiasco. What are they going to do...sue us !!!!!
Keep up the good work on your site. I believe that you are certainly the most
viewed in the industry. One question and I don't know if possible. Is there a
way to just print part of the site to get the newest info. We use all info
for our employees to keep them abreast of the situation.
RBBI Comment: On trying to print just part of the site, we recently
moved the Recent News section up higher on the page to improve its access,
but the rest of the site is scattered all over the place. Has been a hazard of
rapid growth and need to spread it over several servers to support the bandwidth
needs. We thought about trying to stick the little NEW image on new items,
but requires so much time to add and remove them, it delays us in processing
new information.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
I agree with Irwin Jacobs that this situation is the worst possible way to manage
medy of errors. However, I can't believe that he is so frustrated that he will pass
up probable bargain prices for Evinrude & Johnson which could be used to take
Genmar "vertical". Any recent indication that he will submit a bid?
RBBI Comment: We hear rumors he did.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: fires
To the individual saying the fires are an untrue statement, I think you're insane
I was sponsored by Evinrude on a national level, and I seen one burn right in
front of me. Take your blinders off and Wake Up. This is not a joke.
Thank You.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Upgrade Kits
XX, Again thanks for the helpful message. I called NHTSA to discuss their role
in recall protection and was told their interest was confined to some trailer recall,
not boats and engines. After some 10 -12 transfers I finally found someone who
was interested. As you noted, Coast Guard was the right agency to go to. I spoke
to a very helpful guy, Captain XX who is looking into the matter. He can use all
the input he can get. E-mail him at XX. I spoke to my dealer about the upgrade
kits and ran into a classic "catch 22". I consider my dealer to be one of the best
I have dealt with and I have a great deal of sympathy for him but this is where I am
currently;. OMC will not sell direct to the public and they will not sell to a dealer
who has an outstanding balance with them. I understand that my dealer and most
others fall into this category. Having gone through an engine fire, I will not go out
without the kit. Hopefully the USCG can help. Any ideas?
RBBI comment: We spoke with the USCG representative mentioned in the note
above and he provided us the information below as to how to properly contact them
regarding this matter.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: USCG
To: Gary
Subject: RE: OMC fire issue
Thanks for asking before posting my address on the web site. I will soon be
leaving the Service, and I am not the best point of contact in any event.
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: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: s
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Upgrade kits
I looked at the coast guard safety advisories for recalls and safety issues and
there were none for the ficht engines. If you know of any safety advisories on
this engine could you please point me to them.
The upgrade kits are to prevent premature engine failures due to spark plug
fouling and engine carbon build up.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: s
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Upgrade kits
Check out this web site for safety recalls.
http://www.uscgboating.org/mf/mf_OPB3.asp
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: Dee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: good news for omc stern drive owners
Volvo penta today sent its dealers a fax that it will be supplying some late
model stern drive parts thru its dealer network. They are in the process of
publishing a cross ref. book now and will be available soon to its dealers.
Thurs Feb 1
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: Mac
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc cathing on fire
An engine fire, all though dangerous, might be a way out from under the
mess. I got into by buying a new stratos/ficht setup. Then I could go buy a
basscat, triton, ranger with a merc. and life would be good again. if I
survived the fire of course!!! No e-mail address please! The insurance
companies have moles everywhere!
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: New Owner?
First off, a "Special Thank You" to Mr. Wizard for making a place for
all of us to keep abreast of the OMC saga. It is very much appreciated
at least by myself. It is a daily ritual of mine to check this site
several times each day now.
Secondly, who will be the new owner of Johnson/Evinrude? The quizlet
implies it will be an as of yet unknown company. I hope it will be
someone to pull Johnson/Evinrude out of this mess and make them a
profitable company again.
One person hinted: Bom Bom Bomba.... Something like that.
Any strong indications that Bom Bom Bomba is seriously interested in
this venture and may have put in a substantial bid? Inquiring minds
would like to know any inkling you have before the bid info comes out on
Friday!
Thanks!!
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001 06:44:55 -0600
From: Cope Marine
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Job Opening
Large metro St.Louis Marine dealer is looking for qualified help. We have openings
in our service department, parts and accessories, sales, F & I, and office. We offer
competitive wage with a good benefit package. Been in business for 37 years.
Please call, fax or e-mail resume.
fax 618-632-6375
phone 618-632-6353
e-mail bgallina@copemarine.com
Byron Gallina
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: F
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: omc
With all the upcoming events you are going to need some extra fingers for all the
typing !!!!! No big deal on the printing...rather see you use your time to keep the
news coming.
Date: Thu, 01 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Jacobs buying OMC??????
Please say it ain't so!!!!!!
How short the memory is of this industry. I almost puke everytime I
hear the glowing remarks about Jacobs and how 'upset' he is at OMC for
the way they have treated their dealers!
It seems that Soros and the crew led by Kingsley et.al, and the Fix
team learned from the master - Irwin Jacobs!!
Does any body remember Cajun Boats - they shut down in prime selling
season - '97 after the dealer base was told that everything was honky
dory - Keep Selling and oh by the way, quality is up so let's all stock
up!!!!! Company doors closed without notice to rep group or dealers -
but GenMar is still in business!!! - Not Bankrupt!!
Doors closed - of story!! except for the dealers with stocks of boats
that won't sell, and that Jacobs/GenMar/Cajun won't take back - they
disavowed, by loop hole, the factory buy back provision of the dealer
agreement!! And oh yes Transamerica was looking for their floor
interest and principal payments. Sound familiar?
Good luck to everyone - hope the buyer/buyers of OMC are more tuned into
THEIR Customer's - the Dealer's; and the dealers customers - the End
User.
- Dealer hanging in there!
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: Tom
To: wizzard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC news
Dear Wizzard,
Just a quick question? Since the bidders will be revealed on the 2nd.,
but only to a selected few. Will you have coverage if you get a little leak?
An early glimmer of hope, or another nail in the coffin a day or two early
would be helpful. As a small OMC only dealer, each day this goes on takes
its toll. At least we're not alone.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: SOROS.
First of all God Bless and good luck to all ex-OMC employee's and people I
called friends. I have been involved with the runability of Ficht outboards
from day one.The quiet smoke-free start up was the first sign of something
good to follow. The ease of shifting into gear to pull away from the ramp. As
you throttle up and look back at the RudeRam logo looking ahead, you know you
have your hands full. The rush of running one full out .To listen to the
quiet power of that motor over a 40 mile run is something I miss. If Soros
could have climbed down from his yacht and taken a couple of those rides, he
would never have made his statement about OUR motors.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: Jamie Payne
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Mercury MerCruiser Jobs
Mercury MerCruiser in Stillwater, OK is looking for Manufacturing Engineers.
General Responsibilities: Process design, tool design, developing
manufacturing plans, equipment selection, capital justification, shop floor
support, safety, and daily problem solving.
Education: BSME or BSMET
Experience Desired: Five years in manufacturing engineering. Must have
experience in equipment selection, capital justification and developing
manufacturing plans.
Characteristics: Strong work ethic, interpersonal skills, computer skills, and
written communication skills. Must be willing to work on new project teams.
May be called upon to lead project. Some travel required.
Submit resumes to Jamie Payne at FAX (920) 926-2351 or
Jamie_Payne@mercmarine.com.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bids
I was wondering if you knew if the bids would become public record.
They are supposed to be announced before noon on friday. Frankly,
I am surprised that this info had not leaked. If the high bidders are
announced tomorrow, I would hope that we could find out who they are.
Many people , such as customers and dealers have much at stake.
I do not know what harm it would do for us to know who was the high
bidders. Also, it would be important to know if any component did not
recieve a bid.
Date: Thu, 01 Feb 2001
From: OMC
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: job openings
please post the following job openings:
FPC of Lake Villa
850 E. Grand Avenue, Suite 6A
Lake Villa, IL 60046
(847) 265-3412
(847) 265-3840 FAX
e-mail: fpclakevilla@yahoo.com.au
FPC is a nationwide recruiting firm specializing in the placement if engineers
and mid to upper level management in the manufacturing and electronics
industries. Please feel free to call for more information at the above phone
number.
********************
Washington Mutual - Customer Service Specialist
The Customer Service Department is a full service customer service and
collection operation responsible for all contact with the customer as it
relates to customer service issues and delinquency issue for Washington
Mutual's home loan portfolio. The Customer Service Specialist is the company's
front line of contact with our customers and must have excellent verbal and
written communication skills. The CSS must consistently perform their
duties with a high level of competency and maintain an excellent attendance
record as well as being punctual.
Qualified applicants, please mail or fax resume to:
Washington Mutual
Human Resources Department
Attn: CS-LS
75 N. Fairway Drive
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
FAX (847) 549-2805
ATTN: CS-LS
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: s
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Soros
I listened to that NPR interview with Soros and he did not say there were
problems with the engine that could not be fixed.
He said there were problems with the engines, and other problems that could
not be fixed. I assume what he meant by other problems that could not be
fixed he meant financial problems. Problems that could be resolved through
bankruptcy, or maybe not resolved depending on the outcome of the
bankruptcy. If you don't believe me listen the NPR interview yourself.
Now as for as my earlier statement about there being no engine fires
I will admit that I was talking out of the wrong part of my anatomy. I
based that statement on the fact that there were no safety advisories put
out for that engine by the Coast Guard. From further reading of your post
it sounds like there is a new problem that was just discovered fairly
recently on the new RAM FICHT models, and not the models pre dating the
Ram upgrade with the new head design. I could see how maybe these issues
may have not been completely looked into by the coast guard yet. So could
someone that is more knowledgeable on the subject describe the defect and
how it causes the fire, including how the kits will alleviate the problem.
Also what are your thoughts on the engines after all the fixes have been
made. Do you believe that the engine in now a good engine, as in most
problems resolved or are there still some flaws in the design that are not
resolved. Have the problems with the engines building up carbon been
resolved. Have the spark plug fouling problems been resolve with the new
head design.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Mercury Monopoly ?
Mr. Wizard,
Please do not print my name in reference to these comments. I just wanted
to put my two cents worth in on this issue. I was only with OMC from October
to December so I was a real short timer at the corporation.
1. If Mercury were to but OMC Engines - there couldn't be a monopoly issue....
They are the only U.S. company currently making motors now, but that does
not make a monopoly. A monopoly could only be created if Mercury bought
all engine manufacturers. The Japanese companies are still competing in the
market place here and world-wide.
2. Why couldn't Brunswick (Merc parent company) buy the Johnson and Evinrude
names and facilities and have a second motor line to capture more of the market
from the other manufacturers? Chrysler had Dodge, Plymouth, and Jeep for years.
This option could even allow Merc to license the Ficht Technology (if it is sold)
from Brunswick.
So what do you think?
Date: Thu, 01 Feb 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
Please do not use my e-mail address, thanks
Tomorrow is the day that the "first draft" will be announced and I read somewhere
that only a select few would know, is this true? And are you one of that select
few? I sure hope so! I really think that the OMC ex-employees (some still holding
out much hope)and the OMC dealers should be amoung that select few as well.
They seem to be the ones most impacted by this whole thing. Do you think that
some Good Company will step up and buy? My personal opion is that who ever
buys it if they don't stand behind the warrenties they will never make it and it
would'nt be right if they did'nt. But thats just my opion! Well Good Luck to all of
you out there that has alot at stake waiting on the outcome of this matter.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: w-2's
Hey Mr. Wizard I would like to thank you for everything you have done concerning
the whole OMC situation, but one glaring question is on all our minds and that is
the W-2s been mailed out or did OMC screw us again.
Mr. Wizard response: We heard a couple days ago from some folks recieving them
at Burnsville and Spruce Pine NC.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Kits
No name please.
To "S". The kits you are refering to for fouling and carbon build up are a
different kit and you are correct about why they are used.
The kits you need to look at were released in November and have horseshoe
clamps, new bolts, injector retention straps with integral fuel line
retention clips, convoluted tubing to cover the fuel lines, rubber boot to
cover #1 strap.
A message and kit was provided to the dealers in November.
Here are excerpts of what was written in the letter with the kits: This
upgrade kit is extremely important in that we have found ways to reduce the
likelihood of fuel leaks, which can be a potentially hazardous condition.
........we are advising your customers that they are entitled to these upgrades
at no charge and we recommend they take advantage of this program as
soon as possible
. .......OMC has requested customers to contact you to make
an appointment
.......so that you can order the enhancement kit. .......All 1999 and 2000
model 200/225 Evinrude outboards are included in this upgrade regardless of
previous upgrades that may have been made. ......We feel that these upgrades
are critical in order to enhance the reliability and safety of this product.
Appears customers were not notified yet and would not know about this unless
the dealer has made contact with you. 150 and 175 hp need straps also.
Ask your dealer about the letter that came with the kits. The letter is
dated November 2000.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: Chris
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Chapter 11
Hi Mr. Wizard,
My name is Chris and I just bought a boat from a dealer near my area.
I had 2 dealers falling over backwards to sell me a boat, and at no time
was I told that OMC was in any financial trouble. I bought a new 2000
model on Jan 14, 2001.
Do I have any warranty on this boat? Was the seller of the boat obligated
to tell me about the chapter 11? Should I try to get out of the deal?
I just found out about this today, and have not had a chance to call my
dealer yet. I must say I am finding this whole deal quite upsetting.
Thank-You,
Mr Wizard comment: Dear Chris, can we interest you in some ocean
front property in Arizona?
On a more serious note, suggest you watch the news closely till mid Feb,
things might still work out ok for you. Meanwhile, suggest you visit
with your dealer and seek professional legal advice.
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001
From: P
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Dear Mr. Wizard
As a recent let go employee of OMC, I have been following the situation as
close as possible. The latest gossip in town for the motor division is a group
of venture comprised of former executives of Suzuki and the Pensky group.
That has not been confirmed but nothing lately has been. Just thought you
might want this info.
Thanks for the help in following the situation.
Fri Feb 2
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Engine Design
No Name Please.
To "S" on the question of plug fouling and soot. The new engines have
eliminated the problem. The mechanical design is solid. You'll probably see
alot of people switching to Evinrude instead of Mercury and Yamaha once we
get thru this changing of the guard process.
I see another optimax tilted up everyday and have heard problems with HPDI.
They are learning what OMC has now resolved. OMC was just the leader in new
technology and we took our licks and now it is the best out there. You've
heard my message on kits so you should know I am being honest with you on
this. The design is solid.
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: OMC
Wizard: Great job on this. I've been a close observer of the outboard biz
for 15 years (former OMC), and here's my take on the engine biz--I think it
will simply go away. Anyone who buys Johnson and Evinrude will inherit a
load of Ficht problems, run-down plants, and key engineers probably long
gone. I also don't see how a new owner could deny warranty coverage for
every JO/Ev motor out there, even if not required to by law, just as a
matter of good public relations. The engine biz is a big black hole. Who
would take it, even for free? I understand Bombardier was close to a deal
in Dec. and walked away.
That said, I have contacts in California who say that Kawasaki will make a
strong bid to buy control of Ficht. Kawasaki has made a major investment in
upgrading Ficht for its Jet Ski PWC line and is banking on it for the
future (the Kaw version works great). Kawasaki has the engineering talent
and manufacturing ability to produce Ficht, and could also apply a
lower-cost, less complex version of Ficht to two-stroke engines in scooters
for sale in the Far East, where emissions laws are coming into effect.
Kawasaki could then also sell Ficht to Polaris for use on its PWC and
snowmobiles.
The other valuable component of the engine business is PARTS. I could see a
firm buying JO/EV and never making another complete motor, but using the
tooling and drawings to manufacture replacement parts for the millions of
motors already in public hands. These parts could be made offshore. Or they
could be made in Fond du Lac, Wis (hint, hint).
The biggest benefactor of this mess will be Suzuki, which could step in and
sign up a bunch of new dealers from the old OMC ranks. New Suzuki products
are outstanding and more are on the way. I also understand Suzuki is ready
to step up and buy some transoms. Yamaha can't build any more V6
motors--its manufacturing capacity is tapped for at least another year.
Merc will have no trouble taking up the V-6 slack in Fond du Lac--it has
plenty of capacity.
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: A from up north
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Transamerica / OMC flooring interest
Dear wizard,
I can't beleive that Transamerica is trying to "SPIN" this scenario
to make themselves look good. I have been in this industry over
20 years and the system of floorplan financing as I understand it is as
follows: They(Trans) pay OMC the invoice amount LESS an agreed
upon discount reflecting the interest costs. In other words OMC sells
the invoice to TRANS at a discount, not at the dealer invoiced price
as they are claiming. Trans has been paid the interest costs up front
for the whole "Free Flooring" period of time. If they try and renig on
this they would be getting paid twice on the same loan if they could
charge the dealer. Please verify this and let others know, or they may
try to Rescrew all of us OMC dealers and look like they are just trying
to "Help us out". I , like alot of other dealers, hope this all works out
with a much more committed and stronger company purchasing the
engine assets. My personal preference would be Bombardier, as I
feel their strengths of quality engineering and manufacturing would
dovetail nicely with the Namebrands and distribution assets of OMC.
Bombardier Capital could add a nice piece of business in both retail
and wholesale financing as well. I check your site daily and please
keep up the good work.
Date: Fri, 02 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: dfi tech
Just wondering if other dealers have gotton blast fax from the engineers
of the ficht tecnology stating that they are open for business, with the
dfi parts most needed, ie. injectors, stators, pdwb's, etc.
No addys or names please.
Date: Fri, 02 Feb 2001
From: OMC
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: job openings
I hope that it's ok for me to email (probably daily) opening that recruiters
and/or employers are calling about....now that the career fair is over, some
of the omc websites that are frequently visited are my next best attempt to
get the word out. any other suggestions? please let me know if this is a
problem for you or your staff. Thanks for your time and assistance.
RBBI Response: Staff???? I am it. Mr. Wizard read the recent story on extreme
telecommuting in the Wall Street Journal and took off for a remote beach in Bali Indonesia.
Keep'em coming and will post them as I can.
Meanwhile, if anybody sees Mr. Wizard, please tell him to call home.
Gary
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: Ficht Motors
Please remove my email address before posting
I would certainly like to thank the Wizard for allowing the voice of
so many. It is important to have a place where we can get together
to discuss, argue, outpour and communicate about such an event.
I am not sure what the outcome will be, but certainly am disappointed
because I recently purchased a pair of 2001 150hp fichts. As an
charter captain, avid sportfisherman and a person who has been
around outboards for 30 years, I certainly believe in the success of
the engineering surrounding the repair of the ficht problems. My
motors run perfectly - they have close to 200 hours put on them in
over the past few months and have been flawless. I have taken
the plugs out a couple of times and looked at them and they look
about as clean as the plugs in my suburban after all those hours.
What a great pair of motors. I have been as far as 77 nautical miles
from our inlet fishing for white marlin and only burned 90 gallons of
fuel and did not even have to worry about filling the oil tanks while
on the water. They are smokeless and they start beautifully even
on some 16 degree mornings out striper fishing. These motors
are absolutely fantastic and my heart goes out to all those that
worked so hard to fix the problems of the last few years. I
certainly want to see the company come back to life and continue
to perfect the ficht motors you really did a great job - it just took
a lot of time and $$$$. I hope that I get a warranty back and can
even purchase the extended warranty. Imagine spending
$20,000 and possibly never being able to fix them if they break
- it's a bad feeling to think that there may never be parts. I know
I am not the only one - let's all hope for the best and see what
happens over the next week. Be positive and be strong!
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: I may eat my words
I read you daily and there are many viewpoints expressed. Soon the results
of the bidding and auction will be announced. I believe that Johnson and
Evinrude are among the best products out and someone will buy and operate
the brands and the engines. I have been wrong in life and have no hard proof
of my beliefs, but to the folks who predict the death of Evinrude and Johnson
engines I predict that you will be proven wrong.
Anyday now,
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Fresh news
Just out of Waukegan - of the two bidders left for the Corporation - Mercury Outboard
bid $48 million, and Bombardier bid $52 million for starters. We will see what happens
next week............
Date: Fri, 02 Feb 2001
From: t
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Mr. Wizard,
Could you possibly provide us with any information regarding the status of
the Four Winns Division of OMC????!!!!!!! We heard rumors (from a
dealership) that a company named "Cruisers" is a possible buyer.
We were currently involved in a messy warranty situation when Four Winns
closed down, and any info on their status would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Anonymous
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: Jamie Payne
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: MerCruiser - Budget & Forecast Manager
Hey Mr. Wizard,
We have another position for you to post.
Title: Budget & Forecast Manager
General Responsibilities: Cost (product) analysis, performance support and
budgeting for SG&A departments, financial support for product development teams,
and special projects, pricing and promotion analysis and support, month-end
close processes and account analysis.
Education: B.B.A. in Accounting / Finance, MBA / CPA preferred
Experience Desired: 3 to 5 years financial accounting. Manufacturing and
financial analysis preferred. Supervisory experience preferred.
Characteristics: Able to work in team environment, accuracy is essential,
flexibility, routine timely output required, advanced PC skills, and good
business analysis.
Send confidential resume to Jamie Payne at FAX (920) 926-2351 or
Jamie_Payne@mercmarine.com or mail to 3003 North Perkins Road Stillwater, OK
74075.
Sun Feb 4
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Huh?
Oh Great Wizard,
Please do tell if the bid from the black of Merc or the bright of Bombardier is
for the corp as a whole or just the motor group.
(Do you think we could pull an OMC and tell Bombardier to send the check to
my house? I'll split it even with ya, 70-30)
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From:XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: boat group
Godfrey has supposedly had the highest bid on the boat group. I am confused.
I have a difficult time believing that they have the capital to run all of the boat
companies. Monday will be a new day. I hope that Bombardier gets the engines.
I believe that their bid will warrant the operation of the engine and parts group.
Again, we will see on Monday.
Date: Sun, 18 Jan 1998
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: transtion team
Mister Wizard :A lot of dancing and sweet talk to protect the key employee retention
plan ! I am hoping this dont happen. Do you think moneys will run out first?
Is this money a signed guarantee by the people receiving it?
What are your thoughts?
Thanks
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Four Winns
Hello, I'm a Four winns employee and i, as many other Four Winns
employees are trying to find an end to this mess. It's all been negitive
untill today.I hope that what i heard today is true. Four Winns is supposed
to fire up there facilities on the 26th of this month.So if this is true,,,looks
like were going back to work on the 26th!!!!!!!!!!!!! EEEEEEE HAAAAAAA..
I will know for sure Monday on this matter. But also hearing that the molds
for the stringers are being place for production again..........Sounds like
somethings going to happen, that's positive as far as Four Winns employees
getting back to work.
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC outcome predictions
Mr. Wizard,
Everyone else's opinion aside, what, in your opinion, is going to happen to OMC
engine's division? I read that there were only two bidders....does that include
any type of warranty package, or do you know the details of the bid? What
about Kawasaki? Toyota? Can you tell me any other bidders since the
beginning who have dropped out? We had a Yamaha rep come into our store
and commented that (1) there were no bidders at all for the engine division
and (2) there was no negativity at the boat shows in January from Mercury
or Yamaha dealers against the OMC dealers, and that the Mercury or Yamaha
dealers were not using this to boost up their sales against the OMC dealers
at the show....funny, in our small town the Yamaha dealer is acting quite
the opposite.
Thanks for your time,
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bid's
Mr. Wizard hi from xxxx
We had all better hope Brunswick does not get the bid as it would be bad news
for the quality of Ficht if they improve it like they have their Optimax. The reports
are their quality has really suffered the last two years and their reputation in the
field is not good. We understand they have a major re-call and rework plan to try
and fix their major field problems and my sources tell me that they don't even
know the root cause of the Optimax problems ( sound familiar ). Most dealers
would prefer Bombardier or even Japan as it's seems the arrogance of the old
Mercury has crept back into their organization since Buckley has taken over
and they are ruthless to deal with. It won't take much from the dealers standpoint
to cut into Mercury's share of the market. Of coarse if they own all of the major
boat companies then they can mandate their engine use which will be bad news
for the consumers. On the other hand you have to give Mercury and Brunswick
some credit they have succeeded in spite of themselves. Brunswicks top
management continue to make the big bucks and only the stock holders suffer
as they continue to pay for the poor quality and decisions being made. All of us
dealers and customers had better pray for anyone other than Brunswick.
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC, what else!
Please do not use my name or e-mail address. I thought you might be interested
in the following. If you go to www.cadillacnews.com, there is an article regarding
bidders for the boat groups.
Date: Sat, 03 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
I have a question and perhaps you will know the answer. Is the present
bids from Merc and Bombdr. for all OMC holdings, motors, boats, etc. or
just the motor division?
If just the motor div. has any intersest sufaced on the boat division.?
Thanks
Date: Mon, 19 Jan 1998
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bidding information
Mr Wizard
Take a look at Cadillac News has some info on the bidders.
Cadillac Michigan
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: Frank
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: WARN Filings
Dear Mr. Wizard:
Do you know of any invidual, or class action claims filed, or intended to be filed,
under federal WARN Act? If so, please advise asap. Thank you.
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bombardier
I purchased a boat on long island in october 2000 with a johnson motor and with
concern about my motor have been on the phone with my dealer and he got a fax
that bombardier will be purchasing the motor division and will honor all warranties
RBBI Comment: Think somebody is jumping the gun a little bit. Still several
steps left in the process.
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Political asylum
Mr. Wizard, from xxxx
I like your political asylum analysis but don't think these bigots can run far enough on
this earth to get away from the people they screwed out of their lively hood. Maybe a
spaceship with all of these bigots on board would be more appropriate.
Regards, xxxx
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Genmar
This past week, I saw a Genmar press release which was ....."emphasizing the
importance of our employees", and backed it up by dispersing over $3million
dollars to their 5,000 workers. (I wonder..... 5000 "KEY" employees?) To an
outsider, this action, standing in stark contrast to the shananigans now
going on at the OMC follies, deserves at least some passing recognition. Is
it just mere coincidence that Mr. Jacobs..... always seems to be the sharpest
tool in the shed?
(for what it's worth, Mr. Jacobs, ...I for one, SALUTE YOU) !! Well Done!!
Some miscellaneous tips we fielded by email:
1. Bombardier is the leading contender for the Engines and Parts
2. Mercury bid for the whole company.
3. Genmar bid on all the boat companies
4. Godfrey bid on the boat companies
5. Other firms may show up in the second round
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bids for the boat companies
1. The Godfrey Conveyor Company, Inc. has submitted two bids in the collective amount
of 32.8 million for the following boat divisions; 1 Four Winns and Lowe 22.5,and Chris
Craft, Seaswirl and Hydra-Sports for 10.3 million.
2. Sand S Aquisition,LLC has submitted a bid in the amount of $1.5 million for the
Hydra-Sports boats
3.Tracker MarineLLC has submitted a bid in the amount of $2.5 million for the
Stratos/Javelin boat division.
And the discussions and auctions will be held Dec.5 at 9:00 a.m.
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: daniel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
In our paper in Cadillac we have the name of a bid. Godfrey bid 32.8 million for five
boat divisions. They bid 22.5 million for the combined four winns and lowe boat dividions
and a total of 10.3 million for christ craft, seaswirl and hydra-sports. Other bids on omc
division include: s&s acquisition, llc has submitted a 1.5 million bid for the hydra-sports
boat dividion, including transportation equipment. Tracker Marine llc has submittee a
2.5 million bid for stratos/javelin boat division.
Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
if you don't know the truth about omc don't print the BS
Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001
From: P
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC bidding
Mr. Wizard,
Kudos on the great job you have been doing all along through this mess at OMC.
I worked at the Four Winns plant in Cadillac, MI. Here is a link to the local paper that
lists some actual bidders.
http://cadillacnews.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?brd=2061
Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: INF
If Mercury gets the engines division...How are they going to call the engines???
EvinMerc?? and the technology is going to be OrbiFicht???
What about Bombardier EvinDoo?? or BombiFicht???
Either company that gets the Ficht technology is going to be in excellent shape!!!
Ficht is the future for two cycles.
Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001 21:29:55 -0600
From: Tracy
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: your feb 2nd "Tip" Re: OMC-"Just out of Waukegan"
Your reference to "two bidders left for the 'Corporation' Mercury &
Bomboardier," really, really needs to be clarified. Out of respect to the
marine industry in general, especially OMC dealers--your reference, really
means:
(1) OMC including all boat companies
(2) OMC outboard motor division
(3) not sure
Any response would be greatly appreciated, boat shows seem to be very
vicious. Not your fault at all, simply your lack of clarity on your rumor's
published. If there seems to be no "clarity," we understand..........just
realize your impact!
Thank you very much--from a big supporter of your site!!! And the internet
in general.
Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Men in Black
The transition team as they call themselves waits on the second floor lobby
looking out on an empty parking lot waiting for them to arrive. A van appears
and turns off of Marine Drive into the empty lot. After the van pulls to a
stop five men emerge and walk to the front entrance. The transition team
sends one member down to meet them. All head towards the upstairs conference
room. As the two parties introduce each other one member of the transition
team must breath very deeply as to not hyperventilate. They set out to tour
the plant, the visitors poke into every aspect of the Calhoun plant, filming
all they see. Few questions are asked. Eight hours later they are finished
and leave. The enemy was here, they saw our secrets, they captured our
seventeen year effort to build the best outboard assembly plant in the world.
The men in black were from Merc. What shame, what hurt. The upper management
that that led us to this should be in jail but are being paid 2.5 million.
I've attached a photo of the plant taken on Friday at 2:00 PM. Once this lot
was full of cars, now it is empty. I parked there for 15 years.
Mr. Wizard Comment: Several behind the scenes have mentioned the once
in a lifetime free look at the inner workings of OMC and their books. Some
felt a few just placed a bid to get a look at the facilities, processes and
marketing data.
Mon Feb 5
Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2001
From: W
Hey guys and gals
If you've got any time invested in OMC, you should be supporting the efforts
of the official committee representing the employees. Check in at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/OMC-Alumni
Things are moving fast. If this group doesn't have the support of a significant
number of employees, we all lose. We all need to act now. Let everyone
effected know.
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001
From: Rob
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc sale
Thank you for your news and editorial service. It's the first and best source
over the last month. Who is S&S Aquisition? Thanks again.
Mr. Wizard response: Sounds like a nice name for a shell company.
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier bid
To all that dislike Merc/optimax,guess what, Bombardier uses the same
direct injection as Mercury. Bombardier is a licensee of Orbitals DI,the
Ficht system is still in existance because Orbital allowed Ficht to use 4? of
their patents. See out of court win by Orbital dated March of 99 against
OMC/Ficht
Bombardier also uses an Optimax jet drive on their sport boats under an
agreement with Merc.
If Bombardier gets the engines,Ficht might get a new life,or they just
might go quietly away
Please do not post my name
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Hey
If Bombadier gets the engines division....this will be the end for Mercury.
Ficht technology in the hands of a company like Bombardier is to much.
Bombardier Go Get It !!!!
Mr. Wizard comment: Again guys, the Ficht license is NOT part of the auction.
The agreement OMC signed is NON-transferrable. Orbital even jumped into the
bankruptcy proceedings to point it out. Court Docket document #219 filed
Jan 17 by Orbital says "... the Orbital Agreement includes an intellectual
property license that cannot be assigned by the Debtors, much less assigned
to a third party, without Orbital's consent."
Date: Mon, 05 Feb 2001
From: Steve
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier
It would be wonderful if Bombardier acquires the OMC engine Division, a
market it wanted to enter before the great snowmobile crash of the mid
seventies. During this period Carl Kiekhaefer and Bombardier came very
close to building a new outboard engine line together. The market today
would be very different if the engineering talents of Kiekhaefer and
Bombardier had worked together. Should this acquisition turn out to be
more than rumor, expect Johnson and Evinrude line to be the recipient of
top notch 2 cycle talent. Once again there may be some excitement on
the performance circuit.
If any one is ready for a fall it is Mercury with its dependence on high
horsepower sterndrives and outboards. In a recession these babies are
the first to be stricken from the must have list. The EPA probably
should have considered that banning small 2 strokes but permitting 454
cubic inch behemoths creates far more environmental flow through damage.
Perhaps a little North American competition will force Mercury to
actually build its own Four stroke engines and small two strokes instead
of buying them from Yamaha and Tohatsu. Consumers eventually catch on
and the company loses loyalty. Brand loyalty created Mercury, it is to a
large extent living on its reputation of 30 years ago. If anyone can
restore Johnson and Evinrude to a real competitive force its
Bombardier.
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001
From: C
To: 'Gary Polson'
Subject: RE: OMC
so now that some of the bids have been announced I don't look so smart!
Who wounda guessed Godfry! They don't impress me as a company savvy
enough to play in that league. Will be interesting for the next few days.
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: In need of job.
Please do not list name.
I was an employee at OMC Calhoun for 12 1/2 yrs. I know that warranties
and parts and all the other things that people e- mail are important, but we,
the emploees, have lost everything, our pension, our holiday pay, and our
job. There are alot of single parents, husband and wife both, older people
etc.. that are without jobs. Unemployment checks only go so far. Insurance
is sky high, most can't afford it and we all need it. Yes jobs are out there,
but when you're just barely making it on what you make at OMC it's gonna
be hard to make it on the low paying jobs in our area. Just please say a
prayer that we'll get our jobs back and not be sold to someone that just
wants to shut us down. Thanks.
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001 13:12:28 -0600
From: bumble bee boats
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: experienced gelcoater
Bumble Bee Boats is looking for an experienced gelcoater. For further
information please contact us at bumblebeeboats@cafes.net
or phone 931-455-9728.
Thanks,
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
If my predictions are right, Bombardier will do anything to get OMC engines
division..Mercury will be against the wall if this happens. This will put pressure
on Mercury!!! Interesting Ha???
Tues Feb 6
Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
How 'bout it Wiz any news on the auction?
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: S&S
A Shell Corp...
That sounds right...
How's this... S&S is a subsidiary of B&B (an Isle of Man Company) whose entire
BoD (board of directors) is an Isle of Man attorney firm representing
(oops.. attorney-client privilege) Brunswick "just in case..."
I'm not sure the DoJ would be all that interested by Brunswick absorbing OMC
facilities. It's really a small-fish deal (a) and they tend to take a different
perspective (historically) when one of the companies is in a BK action (b).
As a minimum threshold "for blocking action", you might look at the massive
mergers that have taken place in the last few years with their blessing
(what WERE they thinking) - MCI and WorldCom, SBC's re-acquisition of
Pacific Bell, Etc... and let's not forget that Microsoft is still in one piece
despite the massive amount of litigation. Who has more attorneys, Microsoft or
the United States Department of Justice? I wonder...
So do we really think the that DOJ(Dept of Justice) cares about OMC?
On a more personal note, I hope someone of repute absorbs the facilities
and starts producing qualitatively superior spares as my poor 7.4 needs
some serious and I Mean Serious help.
Have a Great Day!
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Mess
When this OMC mess is resolved, I would like to make a "donation" to your web
site----$50.00-$100.00, not much, but I do appreciate all of your hard work.
What, you only have 10 fingers???
Mr. Wizard Comment: Thank you very much, we thought about posting a
donation box earlier. If anybody would like to send us a few bucks to help
keep Mrs. Wizard off my back and defray some of our expenses. Please limit
to $20 for individuals, corporations can send millions.Please make payable to
Polson Enterprises or just toss a few dollars in an envelope and send to:
Polson Enterprises
P.O. Box 1381
Stillwater OK 74076
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
Mercury you need to stop the clock or........The Bom Bom Bardier is going
to get you!!!!
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Hey Hey Hey
My predictions were right!!!
Bombarider is the new owner of OMC engines division.!!!!
This is a new life for the best brand in the market....Evinrude Rude/
Johnson.
For those people that bad mouth the OMC product.....feel sorry for you.
because Ficht Evinrude is going to run you over!!!!
If the 2001 engines are excellent.....imaging the 2002, 2003, 2004, and
2020............
I just love it!!!
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: K
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: OMC
I used to wok at the Beloit facility parts and accessories and dont know if
anyone has bid on it or if the parts are the only thing being sold???
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: N
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
Mr. Wizard:
Just wanted to check with you. I got some information from a very large Ranger
dealer that Genmar has entered the fray as of yesterday and has made a bid in
the neighborhood of 100M for all of OMC. I know the process was to open up
yesterday. Can you confirm this to be true about Genmar? I've known this dealer
to have very reliable information in the past. I can't find anything on the web to
support this. Thought it might be a lead for you.
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: C
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: OMC Mess
I am an individual, and how. Several individual checks from a few of my buddies and
me are on the way.
Date: Tue, 06 Feb 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Probably the 50 th one, but here ya go. Email anonymous please
***AUCTION RESULTS! AND THE WINNER IS.....***
After twelve hours, the auction concluded after 9 p.m. yesterday.
The winning bid was jointly made by Bombardier AND Genmar in the
gross amount of $95 M (excludes the Princecraft boat line,
however, which will be bid separately). Because of contingencies
required by Bombardier in the placement of the bid (requiring certain cures
by OMC), the net bid is actually $87.7 M.
There were only three qualified bidders for the entire business, and
when Bombardier and Genmar teamed up, Brunswick was caught with
its pants down. That left Brunswick to attempt to form a joint bid
with the bidders which were bidding on fragments of the boat business.
Brunswick was prepared to actually form such a counterbid, which
it claimed was "substantially higher," but the consideration of
such bid
(the amount was not made known) was rejected by the creditors
committee. Because of Hart-Scott-Rodino concerns (antitrust
approval required by Justice Department), Brunswick was also
required to make a non-refundable $25 M deposit. Brunswick
then declined to enter its bid, but will likely object further before
the court. It is therefore possible that the bidding process is not
yet completed.
As part of its bid, Bombardier/Genmar apparently received waiver
by the creditors committee of the ability to liquidate the engine
business, so it appears that the engine portion of the business
will remain intact.
Also because the overall bid was as low as it was, it appears
unsecured creditors will receive nothing.
Lots of sideshows went on, including an objection by Volvo-Penta
as to Brunswick's undisclosed bidder status until it verbally
entered its first bid as a violation of FTC rules. In my opinion, Irwin
Jacobs masterfully outmaneuvered Brunswick in the bidding
process.
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: R
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: HEY
You have done a great job!!!!
Congratulations
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: Todd
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: This thing is not over yet
Mr. Wizard,
Your site is very busy I understand, I need to get a message posted. Anyone
who has a vested interest in the OMC purchase, needs to get on the phone
or at least in contact with they're state representative. If Brunswick is given
the approval of the FTC and they are allowed to disassemble OMC the way
they will, the economic impact not only to our industry, but to all the states
that are home to the manufacturing facilities, would be devastating. Please
help me get the word out to call or e-mail now. The meeting is set for
Thursday, so approval must be given soon. Thank you in advance.
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: K
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: OMC
Heard from a worker at Beloit that Godfrey and Bombadier went in together and
have bought the whold company?? who knows?
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: New Owners/OMC
Reports from insiders indicate Genmar/Bombardier marriage for entire
OMC...and business as usual. Any feedback or knowledge other than this?
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: w
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bidding
Thank You Mr. Jacobs so so much. We have a pulse again.
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: Philip
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Waiver
Dear Mr. Wizard:
What does "received waiver by the creditors committee of the ability
to liquidate the engine business" mean? What are the implications for
Evinrude/Johnson engines?
Thanks in advance.
Cudos for the coverage of the OMC fiasco.
An Interested Consumer
RBBI Comment: Think it means they have signed something saying they will
not have a lock stock and barrel liquidation of the place (like a farm auction)
for x years. Maybe one of our legal eagle readers can confirm or shed some
more light on what it means.
Date: Tue, 06 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
No name please.
Thank you for attentiveness to the OMC matter. I check your page every
day for the latest update. Great coverage.
Date: Tue, 06 Feb 2001
From: t
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
Apparantly omc top bidder is Genmar and Bombardier. So much for not
being interested. top bid price 95 million. sounds like a deal!
We recieved this about 2pm Central time
Stratos/Javelin and the Genmar folks are busy touring the Hydra-Sports
plant today, Stratos/Javelin tomorrow, and Chris Craft on Thur.
Genmar and Bombardier hired guards are working many of the sites today
(PrinceCraft, Stratos/Javelin, maybe Wuakegan).
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: martin
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: latest rumours
I don`t understand that genmar gets the drives.Didn`t vlovo buy back all
rights etc. to the drives.I mean omc doesn`t have a drive anymore?
Mr. Wizard reply: I was referring to the outboard engines/drives.
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: P
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: I told you so
Mr. Wizard
I know you did not post my last few messages figuring they were just more
speculation, and true even I did not expect Genmar and Bombardier to join
together
But I told you these were two of the biggest players and would likely win.
Thank God Brunswick did not get these companies to dismantle (at least not
yet ). Everyone should now write (or E-mail) there congress men and women
before Thursday to push this through and make sure Brunswick's protest's fall
on deaf ears. I feel Genmar and Bombardier are going to try and do something
with OMC and make the boat and motor groups number 1 and not dismantle it as
Brunswick would. Thanks for all your hard work on this site, I check it
several times a day.
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bobmardier Article on Their Web Page
Here it is from the Horse's mouth. Great news for some, still unsure how this
will affect the southern plants.
http://www.bombardier.com/htmen/pr_1_d5.htm
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: XX
Subject: (no subject)
Just received word that the PBGC ( Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation)
will be in tomorrow to review our pension fund. Sounds like they are taking
over!!!
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: W
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: johnson outboards
I write to say may wife and I were at the recent Baltimore Boat Show. We shopped
for different center consoles and found an outrageous deal. The 20 ft had a
150 Merc 0/B. We took a chance and swapped to a 200 horse Johnson OceanPro
instead. The price difference was only $400 more for the 200 HP. Hopefully the
risk was worth it. I have been a Johnson fan for years and also a Marine Tech.
for over 25 years and grew up on the water. I could not bare to see this company
end belly up. My friends all agree that a company such as this needs to continue
to function. The marine industry depends on it. We are talking about a product
That has circled the globe and has been dispersed through every town of every
state. Like apple pie. The thought of this has affected everyone. From all walks
of life.. We just hope that the end result is Johnson and Evinrude continue the
legacy that it truly and honestly deserves and not let greed and stupidity stand
in our way. My cards are on the table with this product and probably a lot of other
people are just like us.
We can only hope that this issue is resolved to our satisfaction. Otherwise we
are all loosers.
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bye Bye Mercury
Mr. Wizard from xxxx
This is the beginning of the end for the Mercury run on being # 1. There ignorance
has finally caught up with them and flaw strategies is being proved out to be what
they really are. The real Mr. Buckley in now coming out as he could only ride the
successful strategies of David Jones for so long. Bye Bye George.
Good luck Bombardier and go get em!!
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001
From: Richard
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Not yet!!!!!!!
Don't pop the corks on your champagne yet!!!!!!!!!! We have seen too many times
like this and the good ole' boys don't always win. The Outboard business went down
in 1988 and has not totally recovered. So don't blink.
Thanx Mr. Wizard for all your hard work.
Mr. Wizard Comment: Thanks for pointing out the light at the end of the
tunnel may be a train.
Wed Feb 7
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: Mike
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
I just wanted to say "thanks" on behalf of all of the OMC owners out here.
Your site is the best.
Mike
Date: Tue, 6 Feb 2001 19:29:34 -0800
From: Michael
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: new boat purchase
Dear Mr. Wizard,
I have been looking into purchasing a boat for about 6 months. We have
been looking at quite a few brands, but keep coming back to the Seaswirl
Striper. The local dealer has a 2000 model with a Evinrude 175 hp outboard.
We were looking to close the deal this week, but in light of OMC's situation
(yes we were not aware of the bankruptcy proceedings - funny how dealers
don't like to talk about such things) we are now obviously very concerned
about warranty issues. After looking at your site, It looks like two companies
have, or are about to purchase OMC. Our dealer told us that these two
companies will cover all the warranties for OMC products. I would really
appreciate your input on this matter, since we are about to go into major debt.
Thanks,
--- Michael
---Keep public lands public! OHV users are not abusers!
Mr. Wizard Response: IF it goes through as it currently looks (and that is
still a big IF), I suspect there is an excellent opportunity these two firms
(Genmar & Bombardier) will honor at least some portion of warranty for
existing products. We posted some thoughts on the
end user warranty issue earlier. If the total price remains under $100 mil
I think you have a good chance. Suggest you wait it out a few days. Should
be much more information available concerning warranty of existing equipment
very soon.
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Thanks
Mr. Wizard, Thank You for all you have done. I don't know if you fish. but
I offer you a free guided smallmouth trip on Lake St. Clair anytime. Your hard
work is highly appreciated. You have been our lighthouse on a pretty rough sea.
Mr. Wizard response: Thank your very much, I really appreciate the
gesture, but Mrs. Wizard never lets me out of the house with the guys.
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: Frank
To: Gary
Subject: Re: WARN Filings
Thank you for your prompt response. In this sense, e-mail is wonderful! Do
you have any explaination why either an individual, or state attorney
general, has not filed suit?
Mr. Wizard Response: Early on there were $768 million in creditors lined up, are
many more now. If it remains about a $100 million sale, does not leave any
money left over for unsecured creditors to fight over. Grandma Wizard used
to tell me, "You can't squeeze blood out of a turnip."
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: why not
if disassemble means to sell the difernt divisons seperatly whats wrong
with that? we were told that the syracuse plant was making a profit of
100thousand a month......... i would think someone
would rather have that than to foot the whole debt for omc..........having
been employed at the syracuse plant for just short of 45years.....26 in
quality control....i saw when we were on are own we produced a quality
product for a profit......and didnt have to carry the loss'es ......
Mr. Wizard Response: I think you are referring to the liquidation comment.
Liquidation means having a auction and selling the chairs, desks, plant
equipment, etc. Just like at a farm auction. I was not referring to selling
separate sites.
OMC was a living organism. Its like one site was an arm another a leg, etc.
Hard for your site to exist without the other sites. Genmar and
Bombardier are talking of splitting it, but when the dust settles, Genmar
boats will have Bombardier/OMC engines on them (Provided the current
plan is accepted by the court). The two halves cannot exist without each
other.
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: F
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Princecraft sold?
What happens with Princecraft?
Mr. Wizard response: Too early to do anything but speculate at this time.
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: Tom
To: wizzard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Thanks
Over the past months, your site has been the best medium for information, bar none!!!
You've done a great job, and the letters, factual info, and up to the moment data, has
kept many of us........somewhat sane. For that, no amount of "Thanks" is enough.
The business we are all in, from the line making motors, to the mechanic in the yard,
to the owners of the Marine businesses, is designed for one thing, "Make people happy
in their recreational time", and in doing so, make a living. We have a lot of pride in
what we do. I'm a teacher by trade, and own a sales and service facility. I love both
of what I do, but Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than seeing a customer
leave my yard with a engine that now runs correctly, a new boat he now is buying as
a retirement present, or family fishing Stripers on the river. We all work hard to sell
"Smiles". Lately, We've had little to smile about, but now there is light at the end of
the tunnel. It's time to doing what we do best, making people happy,
Including Ourselves!!!!!!!!!!!
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Information Needed
Thank-you and congratulations on your great web page the information
has been of great help as an ex-employee of OMC. I have had many
years with this company and we have all been left in the dark because
what we were told and what is actually happening is two different things.
My whole family has given a lot to this company and feel we and other
x-employees are getting the short end of the stick. Could you please
get us some up to date information on our unpaid vacation pay we did
not receive, as we were told we would get at first. Now all of sudden
things have changed.Who do we look at to get our answers we just get
a run around of course to them, we now feel that we are nothing but
little green peons as far as the company feels . We have given a lot
of years of our life's to this company and now they stab us in the back
as the saying goes. Our plant resource manager the only answer he
ever gives us ex-employees is he is working on it some help that is
when our families need to know where things are going. As you can
tell we are all a little upset and hurt here in Oregon. Please keep all
e-mail addresses and such private as many of us would like to go back
to work someday if all this ever comes to an end. Thank You
Mr. Wizard Comment: The approx. $100 mil from the sale of OMC
will not even make a dent in the $768 million dollars of creditors that signed
on at the onset (many more now). Also, many of those debts were secured,
yours is not. Your vacation pay is long gone. It the new buyers can really
assume possession for less than $100 mil, they may be able to do a few nice
things to raise employee morale among any employees that may be retained.
Time will tell.
Thurs Feb 8
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: k
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
was burnsville included in the bomb. bid. if so when do think they will
start up
Mr. Wizard Comment: Assume it was, but way to early to anticipate
startup right now.
For starters, they have to take ownership at the Bankruptcy Court
hearing which begins this afternoon. This is not an automatic step.
It may well not happen.
Second, absolutely no guarantee they will take on the old work force,
or even make the old product. If they take ownership they can do
anything they want to do with it. Some of the properties might be
resold for other uses (if agrees with whatever they end up signing
with the court).
Date: Wed, 07 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Great sentiments
Mr. Wizard,
I would like to thank you for taking the time to build this website. My
family has been hard hit by the OMC bankrupcy and reading your website
on a daily basis keeps our spirits high. Thank you from the bottom my
heart, and my family's.
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Not a done deal
I felt all along that Bombardier would buy, but had no idea of Genmar. I
hope this sticks. Brunswick has no good intention for OMC or its products.
We Evinrude and Johnson dealers are thrilled at the prospect of these folks
owning this company. After the honey moon I am sure we will have some
adjusting to do.
Thanks dude,
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: The OMC situation
Dear Mr. Wizard,
I worked at the OMC in Calhoun, GA. for almost my 90 days before I was "laid
off" during Christmas holidays. I really loved my job there and if it ever reopens,
I would like to go back to work there if at all possible. (Even though I thought
it was pretty rotten to be "laid off" during that time of the year) I do not care if
you use by name in your article, it doesnt bother me at all.
I appreciate you for keepin gon top of the OMC situation. I only wish this
bankruptcy thing would hurry up. I would like to have my job back at OMC in
Calhoun GA. I made alot of friends there and I liked my job.
Thank you for your time.
Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001
From: M
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Did Al Gore and William Daley get jobs with Brunswick?
Well, I guess Brunswick isnt a "Credible" bidder!
So why are they now Hot to get Johnson /Evinrude?
Did Al Gore and William Daley get jobs with Brunswick?
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From:XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Orbital
Has Orbital given the green light to sell Fitch, or did I miss
something?........No names please.
RBBI Comment: Do not think so. Orbital may work out a new agreement
with the eventual buyer. Orbital would be in a very strong bargaining
position in drawing up that deal.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Note
Today is the day!!! After 2pm we will know for sure. Mercury comes with
the perfect color!!! Mercury will save money this way on their funeral.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Your thoughts
Mr. Wizard oh great one! from xxxx
Being from Stillwater what are you hearing from the Merc Cruiser folks.
I would think that Brunswick will pull out all of the stops today to prevent
Bombardier & Genmar from buying OMC as this would be a crushing blow
to them. They would be better off to double or even triple the B & G offer
than to let this go through. I think they sell engines to both B & G not to
mention the competition of a quality organization.
Your thoughts
Mr Wizard response: I have had the flu during most of this, so
have not been out and heard the city buzz. MerCruiser builds stern drives,
would anticipate higher level of intererest in Fon-du-lac (Mercury Outboards).
Bidding decisions are being made at the Brunswick level. Am sure MerCruiser
is following intently..
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: soros
Please leave name off e-mail. All the creditors (secured and unsecured)
need to check out bluefly.com . Soros just dumped $20,000,000.00 cash
into this dot-com that sells clothes.....maybe that's the $20M that was
missing from the employee fund.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: William
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Mr. Wizard,
You are doing a great job and I (as do many others) appreciate all the work
you are doing... I've been very interested in all the proceedings as I have
just purchased a new 2001 Johnson outboard. Although, my dealer is standing
behind the motor/warranty out of pocket in an effort to turn over his
inventory, etc... Anyway, its still nice to see what's going on with the
company and nice to see the well-known and established companies will be
taking over and hopefully supporting new and existing customers.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: Rob
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier
What are your thoughts regarding warranties on motor inventories? Will Bombardier
cover them and previously sold units. I heard rumor that they will not produce any
engines for the balance of model year. They will retool and set up new plant.
Have you heard anything similar to that?
Mr. Wizard Response: Concerning warranties, I responded to a similar
question from a boater yesterday and think the same response holds up pretty
good for inventory motors as well:
"IF it goes through as it currently looks (and that is
still a big IF), I suspect there is an excellent opportunity these two firms
(Genmar & Bombardier) will honor at least some portion of warranty for
existing products. We posted some thoughts on the
end user warranty issue earlier. If the total price remains under $100 mil
I think you have a good chance. Suggest you wait it out a few days. Should
be much more information available concerning warranty of existing equipment
very soon.
In terms of Bombardiers's plans, suspect they are still in the speculation stages.
It is difficult to speculate what someone else is speculating about.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: F
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
I've been reading your latest update on the OMC situation.
I worked at the OMC plant in Calhoun and so far we hear nothing
We just now received our information on the COBRA coverage
great deal only about $600 a month for family coverage. I heard
something about Polaris buying the Calhoun plant. Is this true.
We here in Calhoun don't care who buys it. We just want to get
back to work. Doing what we do best. The employees didnt
cause the problems. Management and poor business decisions did.
Someone with good business smarts could turn this company around
The Calhoun plant was the main assembly plant. It would seem if it
would be a little more important that some of the other plants. Our
biggest problem was getting parts in. We could build as many as
fast as they wanted if we had the parts. But knowing the luck of OMC
someone will buy it just to get a competitor off the market.
All I did was paint, but I think that the Evinrude/Johnson engine
were some of the best looking engines on the market so if someone
is looking for a painter Im your man.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: Michael
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Omc
Any news on if and or when they will call employees back?
Mr. Wizard Response: Once more guys, the thing is not even
sold YET !! When and if it does sell (Bankruptcy Court hearing today) the
new owner can do whatever they please with it, which may not include
recalling the employees or even building outboards and boats.
It is far to early to speculate on recalling the employees when you do
not even know who owns the business yet, or if any sale will even
be allowed by the court.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Been watching your RBBI site.....am visiting from Canada and am an OMC
dealer there. News in the Sarasota Herald says Genmar and Bombardier
Canada have bid about $90,000,000.00. Seems Genmar will father the boat
companies and Bomb will have the engine operation. Of course this has to
go to the courts etc...any insights? as a Canadian am happy with the entry
of Bombardier a progressive Canadian company in the transit business, well
capitalized and highly technical. Genmar is the leading boat building group
in the US. The price they may be about to pay give lots of room for dealing
with other contingencies that are in the bag of goodies. Seems like a great
mix if it gets off the ground.
Date: Thu, 08 Feb 2001
From: Peter
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht oil
I made the wonderful decision to buy a new 2001 Evinrude 250HP Ficht
motor only 6 weeks before OMC pulled the plug. Evinrude insisted that I
use their Ficht oil to avoid the carbon buildup problem that had destroyed
so many motors and I have done that to date. However, my boat is in
Mexico and the Evinrude dealer (who sells Ficht motors and has one in
its showroom) does not have any Ficht oil and can't order any because
OMC is defunct. The Ficht oil containers state that it is a synthetic oil
with "Carb X" added to prevent carbon buildup. Can anyone tell me who
supplied the oil and additive to OMC so that I can buy it from them? Thanks.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: H
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht/Orbital
What is the connection between Ficht and Orbital and how does it effect
the sale to B. & G.?
You've been doing a great job. 75% of my sales are OMC.
Thanks from a loyal OMC Dealer.
Mr. Wizard Response: Per Orbital's filing (Document #219)
they say in the mid 90s OMC said they were moving from Orbital
to Ficht technology. But, in fact many of the engines OMC said
used Ficht technology were actually using Orbital technology.
Plus they say OMC disclosed confidential information to Ficht.
In Dec 98 OMC filed a lawsuit against Orbital in an attempt to
receive a judgement the Ficht engines did not infringe on
Orbital patents, but it backfired and an agreement was reached
requiring them to make payments to Orbital, but allowing them
to continue making the Ficht engines. The series of agreements
made at that time are not transferable.
OMC has issued some Ficht licenses to others (Deere,
Arctic Cat, Bombardier) and the agreement with Orbital said they
would not pursue them for infringement.
Per the Court records, OMC currently owns a 51% interest in
Ficht. It is part of the auction block, but Orbital is saying
certain Ficht applications require Orbital technology as well.
The specific technology in question is a dual fluid, air-assisted
direct in-cylinder injection system.
Sounds like the two technologies are a bit interwoven,
especially in certain engines.
Please do not take the full response above as fact, is just how
I interpret what Orbital is saying.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: orbital vs ficht
Mr. Wizard,
Please clarify something for me. I have followed Orbital technology
and Ficht technologies since there inception and can't understand
Orbital's infringment suit because they are two seperate indeties.
The only thing they had in common was positioning of the injector.
OMC gave up on Orbital after phase two and purchased a controlling
interest in Ficht, am I right? Also I am a former Merc tech and
racer who switched to OMC's in 1976 and can say from experiance
that I have never cooked an OMC outboard! How many Merc owners
can make that claim? My hats go off to all the loyal and hardworking
OMC employee's, you guys make a damn fine engine! Also to you
Mr. Wizard for keeping us all up to date.
Mr Wizard response: As to the two technologies, see the
response to the message above this one.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht
I've read a couple of emails regarding Orbital/Ficht that I must
address........
Just to clarify things a little, Orbital is an Australian company. Ficht, on
the other hand, originated in Germany.
In the 1980's, Orbital did license "certain portions" of their technology
to OMC. At about the same time, OMC was working with Ficht GMBII.
In 1995, OMC acquired a 51% interest in Ficht and received an
exclusive license for Ficht.
OMC did not terminate it's agreement with Orbital, but negotiated an
amendment to it that would allow OMC to continue to use some aspects
of Orbital's technology. After that, it got a little nasty with Orbital
accusing OMC of exceeding the scope of the agreement, etc., etc., etc..
This info is available (in much greater detail) on the bankruptcy site.
Ficht will be sold in the bankruptcy proceedings...but not necessarily
the technology covered under the license agreement with Orbital.
Hope this info helps...no names please.
Mr. Wizard response: Many have been writing in concerning
the two technologies. Please see my response two messages above.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Assimilation
Mr. Wizard, what is your take on the OMC assimulation into
Bombardier should the offer go through. Talking to many of
my former co-workers many are of the opinion that the day
will come when they will get a call and told when to show
back up for work. My take is considerably different.
Bombardier has an engine group that I would think they
would move OMCs manufacturing capacity into along with
the purchasing function. This would allow them to build
outboards but also shift capacity during slow periods to build
other engines as well. Calhoun and the supporting plants
could technically run 24/7. The P&A and FG business I
would think they would roll into the water sport group.
They could, should they like, consolidate OMCs old
marketing/CS/finance along with a number of other groups
into their existing organization with minimal need to recall
many of the ex-OMCers. Sales and tech could be reduced
and to some degree merged with the existing labor force.
The only Waukegan function that I think they would want to
remain intact would be the engineering/R&D group and they
did bid for that building.
Companies usually (Greens Marine being an exception) do
not purchase failing companies and do not take advantage
of consolidation opportunities.
What are your thoughts should you suddenly be charged
by Bombardier to organize the absorption of OMC into
Bombardier?
Mr. Wizard response: Would take a lot of time
to make am informed judgement of how best to proceed if in
fact Bombardier is the winner. Plus would require internal
Bombardier info as well.
Fri Feb 9
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: court decision
Spent all day in court today. Mercury did all they could to screw up the
works, but did not get it done. Paperwork to be done tonight and turned in
tomorrow. Lets get back to business.
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: A Texas marine firm
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: peter/ficht oil
have him contact me via email or phone and i think i can get him hooked
up on his oil problem. they really do last longer on ram oil.
Mr. Wizard Response: He was referring to a post yesterday from
a gentleman named Peter with a 6 month old 2001 Evinrude 250HP Ficht
motor in Mexico having trouble finding the proper oil since the shutdown.
We linked them together.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
To Peter, looking for Ficht Ram Injection Oil. First if your dealer doesn't
stock it I would question the quality of the dealer. Secondly your dealer
can order any parts "Cash in Advance" terms and thirdly try another
dealer for the oil!
Mr. Wizard Response: See response above.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: conspiract theory
(please leave email and name off!)
Here are my thoughts. Several months ago Soros and Mr. Jacobs agreed to a
side deal. Soros would fold OMC, through chapter 11, erase all the debts, and
Mr. Jacobs would purchase the company for pennies on the dollar. An email
posted earlier today mentioned Soros is already spending lots of money on a new
venture. There must be more players in the action - how can a court forget
about the 700+ million owed to creditors if there is a chance that additional
bidding may help pay back the creditors? There are many non-OMC employees
that will be affected by this process also. The future will be very interesting!
Mr. Wizard comment: Hard to buy into conspiracy. Soros just dumped
the debt. Why should he care who bought it or how much they paid. It was
a cinch nobody was going to give over $768 mil for it and they had that much
in creditors lined up early on (more now). So he would not get a dime back
on his investment no matter who bought it or how much they paid (as long as
less than $768 mil). No reason for Jacobs to offer Soros an under the table
payment to dump the company when that was already in his best financial
interest.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: H
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: Ficht/Orbital
thank you for your prompt response to my question on the Ficht/Orbital
connection. Nothing is simple anymore.
This loyal OMC dealer is very, very appreciative of your efforts
Mr. Wizard Comment: Yesterday several asked about the Ficht/Orbital
situation. Today we moved that response to Part 2.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Court proceedings
Brunswick filed objections at 1:58 pm. All Brunswick objections to the deal
were quelled and by the end of the day, the sale was approved. There
remains some paperwork details until final approval, but brunswick
attorneys left the court early after losing and at the end of the day
Bombardier, Genmar and OMC execs were all congratulating each
other on a successful deal.
Hope you're over the flu.
Date: Fri, 09 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: FICHT
Looking back thru the docket I ran across a entry that indicates that
OMC is paying 5.8mil to the FICHT Bros to buy the complete
FICHT GMBH deal. They are also allowed to then sell it to the
B & G buyers of OMC. I like others am still trying to figure out
the connection between Orbital and FICHT - I am leaning towards
the software/engine control system - that Many believe was
one of the core problems with the early FICHT engines; and has
been completely re-done for better performance, changes in the
way the system goes from stratified to homogenous, etc.
Only time will tell how this is all going to shake out. Being a dealer
I have a differnet take on this than the folks who have lost their
livelyhoods - I hope that B & G will realize that a large part of the
value of their investment is the emplyee group - To B & G - keep
the good , get rid of the chaf.
That was docket # 431
Keep up the good work!!
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: xxxx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Genmar vs. Independent bidders
Just some food for thought now that Brunswick supposedly is
completely out of the picture, according to yesterday's hearing.
The combined independent's bid for the boat groups was
higher than Genmar's portion of the Bomb/Genmar bid for the
boats. This could become an issue today. And for all that are
so excited to see Genmar get the boats, remember they already
have several facilities that build comparable product. Genmar
May keep some of the OMC facilities, but in all likelyhood they
will move the OMC operations to their existing facilities, especially
with the current decline in boat sales. Makes more sense to
consolidate operations of similar products, especially with a
slowing economy.
But if the independents get the boat facilities, operations would
most likely continue at the exisitng facilities with many ex-OMC
employees probably getting their jobs back. Just something to
think about.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: Don't use my name / e:mail address, please
If Soros cried "financial difficulties" and then had the money to dump
$20 million into Bluefly.com, is there any truth to the rumor about the
"shortage" in the OMC employee fund having something to do with his
windfall of money? Someone should go after that guy - maybe a claim
should be filed against him as well? I am sure that many creditors will
not have a prayer of getting paid if the $95 million sale goes through,
so maybe this is an avenue that creditors should explore?
What are your thoughts?
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Good deal, I am glad that the offer from Brunswick was reject. Now they
know that is the heat is on!!! and Mercury is going to have to work Very
hard to make a reliable product.....or go four stroke like Yamaha... OMC
needed good management and now the new owners will take good care of
the product.....Evinrude/Johnson will be Numero Uno againagain!!!.
With Ficht Technology.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
Just a short message to Mr. Buckley.....It is time for you to "Buckle" your
set belt!!!
Mr. Wizard comment: The slogan above from our friend and Zealous
OMC supporter, "R" might be a great mission statement for the new organization?
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: R
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: HEY
Thanks.....the real one is like this!!!
Mr. Buckley..."Buckle your seat belt... the road is going to be BOMB PI"
Mr Wizard Comment: He justs keeps getting better.
RBBI Comment: If anybody is still looking for a job, we had three more
firms post openings this morning on our jobs page.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Note
To all those OMC dealers that bad mouth the product and now are Mercury or
Yamaha dealers....shame on you.....that happens when you are not loyal.
To those OMC dealers that always been loyal,,,even in the worst
situations....I want to congratulate you and thanks for hanging in there!!!!
You will see the good results in a couple of years.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: Ralph
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Future
Mr. Wizard,
Like many I would like to express my appreciation for the support you
and your site have provided the ex-employees, dealers and consumers
throughout this mess. Please post the following short message to my
fellow ex-coworkers, dealers and consumers.
If the dreams of many do become reality and we see new Evinrude
and Johnson products being manufactured in the USA again keep
the following in mind. Past management did not create all the problems
the brought OMC to deaths doorstep. Do not assume new management
will wave their magic wand and all will be better. If ex-employees and
new hires get another chance we must all assume a very active role
in insuring future success. Everyone, from the floor sweeper to CEO
must give a 100+% effort, take full responsibility for your own job,
take responsibility for what is happening around you, if you see
something wrong speak up, offer a realistic solution. Don't assume
the next person will pick up your slack or correct your mistakes. If
you're not prepared to give a 100+% find another job that you can be
come dedicated too. While dedication to company and a job should
not consume our live's we must all realize that without a good job life
can be tough, as many are finding out now. We are ultimately working
for ourselves (and our families) but it takes a team effort otherwise you'll
get voted off the island. There are no immunity idols in real life.
Dealers and consumers please be fair and reasonable in what you ask
for. Nothing in life is free, someone must ultimately bear the cost of
providing warranty support. Manufacturers and dealers must all make
a reasonable profit otherwise we wind up with situations like we
currently are enduring. Your request for extra warranty or out of warranty
assistance do no good if the warranty provider has gone out of business.
Good luck, God bless and may our paths cross again in more enjoyable
situations.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: a
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bombardier/genmar
Wiz,
According to XX at The Lighthouse, Judge Katz has signed the order
approving the sale.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: X
Subject: (no subject)
2-9-2001 at 12:25 Got the Phone Call!!!
The Lighthouse just got off the phone with with the Courtroom deputy,
XX, and she confirmed that Judge Katz has signed an order today
confirming the sale of OMC to Bombardier and Genmar!!!!!
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001 1
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier/ficht/orbital
There has been a lot of comments lately about Ficht being improved and
not needing Orbitals technology, if that was the case Orbital would not have
had any grounds to stop the sale of Ficht. I would assume(bad word) that
OMC would have gone back to OrbitaL a long time ago and inform them that
they wanted get change the settlement agreement.
Every has to understand that Orbital and Bombardier have a great
relationship and use Orbital's system exclusively, they can go to the Sea Doo
web site for an example.
I guess what I am trying to say is the sale went through because Orbital
allowed it,and Ficht would not work without Orbitals technology at this time
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: kenneth
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: buy out
i read the recent news and i am glad a big company like bomb. got omc.
could you give me any information you have about their plans for omc burnsville.
my wife is very tired of sitting at home...........thank you very much for your web
site it has meant alot for ex-omc employees.
Mr. Wizard reply: If they sale was approved today and sounds like it was, and
it stands (may still be some objections). Then they can do whatever they want
with it ! Its theirs. Suspect they will be a while sorting out their plans and
deciding how best to proceed. If they choose to continue work at that site, would
expect some major restructuring. That takes time. No point in just turning the switch
back on, when you don't know where you are going yet !
Date: Fri, 09 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Hopefully the American court system moves quickly with this deal so we can
all get back to work. Sitting here windering got old fast. Ther are close
to 10, 000 people affected by this bankrupcy and I'm sure I'm not the only
one who wants to get back to work and get back into the cash flow. I hope
that Bombardier and Genmar are better at this management thing than OMC was!
Thanks again for the site and all the effort every one has put into this
situation. It is crutial for every one to keep their spriits high and their
expectations low. No need for unnecessary dissapointments. Good luck to
every one else who has been screwed by OMC.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: T from Australia
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Asia Pacific and Europe
We're in Brisbane, Australia and involved with OMC Haines Hunter (boat
company wholely owned by OMC Australia).
Can anyone tell us what the situation would be for us? And what about OMC
Europe for that matter? Is Bombardier looking at picking up these markets
as well or don't they know Asia Pacific and Europe exist? So far there has
been no mention of these markets.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Continued outboard mfg... Difficult !
Mr. Wizard,
I think there are other likely possibilities other than Bombardier continuing
outboard manufacturing. Such possibilities have been lost in a wake of
enthusiasm of Brunswick's apparent loss. Before the manufacturing line can
begin producing outboards, a NEW avenue for sales will have to be created
(this will not happen instantly). OMC cannot longer sell to itself (it's
captive boat lines) as it no longer has boat companies. Genmar has those.
This will be difficult as surely some of what would have been Evinrude
equipped boats will now be equipped with Mercury or Yamaha (by Genmar). Add
to that, that Genmar will want very low prices and even cash contributions
for marketing. Keep in mind that there has also been serious creditability
damage to the confidence of continuing the outboard line.
Bombardier may opt to keep the Ficth technology or run only the parts
operation. This could follow the same scenario as McCullogh in the late
1960's (parts only for many existing motors). Even if they begin making
whole motors, they will very soon realize the intense competition,
credibility damage, expected concessions etc. Such efforts could very well be
short lived. Bombardier may even opt (at the start) to sell it off quickly
doing exactly what the FTC hoped to prevent. The FTC's is meddling with its
influence. It does not understand the industry or the ramifications of the
situation. Brunswick may actually be the most qualified and common sense
buyer to continued the parts operation.
I request that my email address not be published
Date: Fri, 09 Feb 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Some good news for Lowe Boats.....
We hope everyone will be getting this good news soon......this link to
the Lebanon Daily Record will be short lived. Good luck to all ex-OMC
employees....there's a light at the end of the tunnel!!!
(we moved the link to the recent news coverage section)
Sat Feb 10
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ready to Rumble
No name from Parts Unknown.
Great news today!!!!!.
Mercury is ready to stumble and EvinRUDE is Ready to Rumble!!!!!
Just like a "25 man over the top rope battle royal" there will be only one
champion. The new WWF is here ( World Watercraft Federation) and EvinRUDE
is gonna do a Pile Driver on the competition!!!! Not even Chief Jay Strongbow,
Andre the Smiling Giant (from the Isle of Malta) or Gorrilla Monsune (from
parts unknown) can save the competition. Like Professor TorreTenaka we're
gonna put'em in a sleeper hold and they'll never wake up!!.
EvinRUDE is Ready to
Rumble!!!!
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Thanks
Thanks for all the information on the O. M. C. it was greatly appreciated.
The members in our bass club will be happy to know that O. M. C. is back.
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc didn't make anybody famous!
Greetings Wiz, F.Y.I. after reading the B.I.I. article linked from your site,
I was Appalled to read that" OMC had allegedly made these boat companies
famous." The fact is when the "big three" started movin' and shaken,
OMC was trippin' xxx over tea-kettle to pick up some "already famous" boat
companies to insure that they would have a place to sell some of their engines!
Fact is before they bought Four Winns the power plant option was usually
black. Imagine that.OMC never made us anything. We grew to greatness
because of the Winn family and the great workforce that they built/hired.
let the credit fall where it should. I for one know the truth. As far as the old
OMC management/ownership is concerned, good riddance and rest in peace.
Date: Fri, 09 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc-andrews
Do you have any idea what is going to be done with the gear case plant
at Andrews?
Mr. Wizard Response: Bombardier can do whatever they want with it !
Its theirs. Suspect they will be a while sorting out their plans and deciding how
best to proceed. If they choose to continue work at that site, it might not even
be producing parts for outboards. They may or may not recall any of the prior
employees. Its a whole new ballgame. Sounds like some of the boat plants,
may fire back up soon, but no word yet from Bombardier on their plans.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From:
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: D
Dear Mr Wizard,
You dont know how grateful I was to read the latest news of yours about OMC !
I was laid off with only two weeks remainnig to become a full time employee
there. It's like I wrote you in my first letter, I loved my job there at OMC. There
hasn't been too many places where I've worked at that I did like. and OMC is
one that I enjoyed working at. I never missed a days work in the months that I
was there. I thank you so much for this good news.
Mr. Wizard Response: Bombardier has said nothing of their plans.
There is absolutely no guarantee they will fire the plants up and recall the
ex-employees.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: M
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier
After all the articles on the subject of the purchase of OMC. I have not
seen anything on the financial strength of Bombardier. Do they have the
financial resources to start up and operate until the motor divisions become
profitable....Or will we see another closing next year.
Mr. Wizard response: Brunswick's annual sales (all divisions) were
about $ 4.3 billion for year ending Dec 31, 1999. Bombardier's annual sales
were about $ 13.6 billion for year ending 31 Jan 2000. Need I say more.
Note Bombardier sales are in Canadian dollars, but they are still several
times the size of Brunswick. You might want to read up on them.
http://www.bombardier.com
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: little if
I still say that this sale will happen. I am convinced that there are entities
that wish otherwise and will stop at nothing to protect themselves from the
inevitible pain they will feel when Bombardier and Genmar come out of the
chute. Brunswick and company are in a spin and are not looking forward to
the contest ahead.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Evinrude and Johnson
To all of those who have hoped that Evinrude and Johnson would die,
sorry Charlie.
No matter how badly the engines were talked down by competitors,
many of us know that these are fine products and Mercury would
rather not see them anymore.
I cannot speak for Bombardier, but my bet is that they will start back
soon and look out. Deep pockets and technical support are all that
was missing. Brunswick is not stupid. They did all that they could
do to eliminate the giant, but as usual big strong companies are hard
to beat. Bet on Bombardier to return Evinrude and Johnson to their
rightful place in the market. Number one.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: W
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: johnson purchase
We sent you an e-mail a couple days ago about our purchase of a center
console with a 200 Johnson for $400 more than a 150 Merc. The dealer
said he is confident about getting a factory warranty with the engine we want.
We haven't signed and finalized the deal yet. The dealer said we could wait
till the 12th or when the bankruptcy deal is final. Im not quite sure if he will
keep the price he said he would sell it for or raise it due to the resolvement
of OMC after he hears the outcome himself. What would you suggest we
do if anything.
Quite a situation we are in! The Johnson suites us fine as long as warranty
is valid. Wish Bombardier would announce something of their intentions.
Thank you need to get boating.
Mr. Wizard response: First, if your able to knock down a 150-200 HP
outboard boat in todays economy you have a few things to be thankful for.
Second, It is a risk. Suggest you evaluate what you are willing and capable
of risking in this situation, try to understand the odds as much as possible
and make a decision. We all have different levels of risk tolerance and
different personal situations.
Plus would remind you it is a leisure activity. Can you still be happy on the
water looking back at that engine every time you are on the water if the
warranty fails to materialize? Some could be, some could not.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Thanks
I might have jumped the gun last time I wrote to you on Feb. 3
...Saying that my dealer told me that Bombardier will be buying OMC's motor
division.. I am glad it is turning out that way ....and for Mercury , I don't think
I would ever Purchase one ....I have owned one in the past...They have left
a very sour taste in my mouth...the thought of liquidating a company in pieces
so to rid competition and make it hard for many boat owners....very very sour
taste...and for Bombardier Thanks!!! with there technology behind them I feel
very secure in my purchase of my Johnson motor...
Your site is in my computer permently !!!!
Thanks so much for all the info....
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
Now this is the new name of the game!!!
Who Wants to be a Bombarllier !!
Sunday Feb 11
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Don't know why everyone is excited abt the O M C sale. Genmar did not
buy the boat conpanies. The buyer was Jacobs Trading Co. Many in the
industry,do not refer to Mr Jacobs as their patron saint.It appears he could
liquidate at a profit.Bombadier while is financially sound,and has success
in many areas,also has some failures. The most recent was the purchase
of the Celeberity Boat Co. All that glitters is not gold.It is not time to rejoice
yet,only smile a little.Even if the sale is actually final,it will take at least
six months before we can think abt opening the bubbly.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: Bill
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: genmar
what other companies does this genmar own and who are they?
Mr. Wizard response: Suggest you view http://www.genmar.com
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: Bill
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc update
i would like to know who is buying the motor div. and how will that
affect my warranty.
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC lower units
I sure hope that when the old engineers return to work that they seriously
think of redesigning the current two bolt gearcase, they are junk! Whoever
came up with the one peice propshaft seal and the two bolt bearing carrier
should go work for Merc. If any of you have noticed they tried to remedy
carrier sloop and twisting by installing a wedge. Untill these problems are
fixed I have canned my newstyle gearcases for the old tried and true 4 bolt
carrier gearcases.
Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier bought the balance of FICHT from FICHT?
Mr. Wizard, Is this true?
Rumor has it that prior to Bombardier buying OMC, they went to
Germany and bought the remaining 49% of the FICHT engineering
company from the FICHT faimly in Germany.
With OMC owning 51% of FICHT and Bombardier buying OMC, they
(Bombardier) now own FICHT 100%
If this is true, it's great news for all involved!
Can anyone confirm this?
Mr. Wizard response: This is NOT new news, has been on our
Bankruptcy proceedings page a couple days. The actual details are a bit
different.
Bombardier made it a condition of sale that OMC buy the remaining
49 percent (to be paid with proceeds of the sale of OMC to Bombardier,
deal was $5.8 million), then Bombardier ended up with all 100 percent
when they bought OMC. The court and Ficht approved the deal.
It is all covered in Court Docket document 431 on our
Bankruptcy Proceedings page.
Mon Feb 12
Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001
From: Bill
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc update
i would like to know who is buying the motor div. and how will that
affect my warranty.
The message above came in Sunday. This morning, a viewer responded ...
Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: For Bill: Re Warranty
You don't have one..... Good Luck....
Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: What about Stratos/Javelin
Do you have any idea what the plans are for Stratos/Javelin Boats. Many
concerned workers would like to know how to go about getting their jobs
back. Even though all these bad things have happened Stratos/Javelin
was a great place to work, people at the plant level really cared about us.
No address or name please/
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: K
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Hello, I hate to bother you but, I was wondering If you know the answer
to this question? Who has the Beloit-Parts and Accessories facility in
Beloit, WI and what will happen with it?
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: New Buyers
Thanks Mr. Wizard for all of your help. As a former employee of OMC
in Waukegan, the day I was laid off in December was the first day I
saw your site and I have been reading it every day since then. I saw
an article in the paper that says OMC will be recalling its employees
within the next few weeks. For those of us who are trying to make some
decisions about what to do with our life, what do you think? Will
Waukegan really continue to be the headquarters for OMC? Also, do
you really think the Evinrude/Johnson will ever be able to recover their
reputation with dealers and customers to ever really be a presence in
the marine industry again?
Thanks Wiz - please - no name or email.
Mr. Wizard response: Too many unknows right now. Would
suggest any ex-employees offered jobs by Bombardier, ask them to
share their basic plans with them. That does not seem like an unusual
request to me. You could then make a much more informed decision
on both issues (reputation and long term headquarters).
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: Please do not show e:mail address please
If Genmar is buying the boat facilities and assets and Bombardier is buying
the engine business and assets, why was it stated in one of the articles that
Genmar was specifically taking over the engine test facility in Stuart, Florida.
Why wouldn't Bombardier have control of that - since they will be taking
over? Will both companies be utilizing the facility?
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC dockets
Hello,
I was interested in your advice regarding the financial information that is
posted through the OMC dockets.
Would you have specific information on which dockets pertain to the
financial information concerning the boat companies?
I appeciate your help.
Mr. Wizard response:
Docket Documents:
460,461, 462 Engine Division
463,464,465 Recreational Boat Group
466, 467 Fishing Boat Group
468,469 Aluminum Boat Group
470,471 Latin American / Carribean
472,473 Recreational Boat Group Limited Partnership
474,475 Outboard Marine Transportation
476, 477 OMCENA
478, 479 OMC Nevada
The various boat companies appear in their respective groups.
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Rumor has it that Waukegan under direction of Bombardier will re-open soon
and all motor manufacturing will return to in-house instead of pieces being
farmed out.
Rumor also suggests there may not be any manufacturing of boats or motors
for remainder of model year 2001....re: motors, might help us all get rid of
some existing inventory...especially if warranties are honored as I hear they
will be.
Hope the ex-employees can hold out for a while longer...by letters on your
site, appears there were many dedicated people who didn't deserve what
they got.
Hope we can all hold out. God bless America!
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: George Buckley speach, anonymous please
This morning Brunswick CEO, George Buckley was the keynote speaker
at the Salomon Smith Barney Leisure Conference. The audio was Webcast
live.
The speech went about 30 minutes followed by Q&A. The later was the
more interesting. Almost the first question was how the sale of OMC would
impact Brunswick market share. I must paraphrase; but first realize this:
Mr. Buckley is brilliant, in a dialog his mind is a couple of paragraphs ahead
of mine, perhaps a whole chapter. He has a knife edge wit, and will not be
bettered in an exchange. George is a man of conviction and religious topics
are occasionally interjected into his discourse. He is not adverse to shocking
statements. Never assume that they are unintentional.
"OMC had about 28% market share. A situation such as we have seen in the
bankruptcy will drive OMC market share down and we feel that Mercury is
positioned perfectly to take advantage of that. The customer base and dealer
network will not wait a year for Bombardier to stabilize OMC and get it back
into business."
Then later:
"Keep in mind that despite the size and financial strength of Bombardier,
they are not an engine company. The task of running OMC is a job for
Jesus, I hope that they brought their sandals."
Shortly there after the moderator concluded the Buckley segment of the
program. You have to admire the guy, he has chutzpa.
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier
Please do not publish my name......
Recent message board posting indicates that Bombardier will locate their
business in Canada. Says that due to taxes in selling in a foreign country
they get gigged....... USA obviously is not their country...
Looks like the OMC folks need to move on to other opportunties..... What a
shame to waste so much talent from the Calhoun, plant.. Good shop floor
people that cared, good managers.... God Bless them all.....
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Please no name or e-mail address, Thanks
Hey Wizard, I just want to say Thank You for all you have done on the
OMC ordeal. Your coverage has been great.
I would like to ask one question,When do you think that all of this will
be legal and operations can begin again? I realize that all the work
force may not be brought back at the begginning but do you think it will
only be a matter of time before it will be full steam ahead? I just
hope that it won't be long before every one will have their jobs again.
Do you think that the new owners will want the old employees or want to
start with new? It would make perfect sense to have the old because they
are already trained. I sure hope so, I will be glad when this is all
over with one way or the other and we can all get our lives back wether
it is with our former jobs or somewhere new.The not knowing has drove us
all crazy. Whether I am there
or not I just want to say watch out Mercury, We're Back!!! Good luck
to all employees who does want their old jobs
back, hope to see everyone again at work.
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Please don't use my email address
Mr. Wizard
Could you please inform me I'm hearing that Irwin Jacobs who owns
Genmar also sits on the board for OMC wouldn't that be a conflict of
interst. Thank you in advance.
Mr. Wizard reply: As of Friday Feb 9 th
there is no OMC. Assets were sold at auction. Not much conflict there.
Tues Feb 13
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
Well, well, well...that is a hell of a good news...Bombardier owner of Ficht
Tech.
This is not good for Mercury.
Sure is excellent for the Evinrude/Jhonson brands. This is real interesting!!!
We will see many good things in the near future, I would love to see the new
face of OMC after this plastic surgery!!! A Star Has Been Born!!
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC-sell out
If Ole and Ralph Evinrude could only see what a bunch of over paid Corporate
Directors have done to their beautiful outboard motor company, they would roll
over in their graves. 80 years of sucessful history trashed in the last 10 years.
Best of luck to all of those caught up in this spider web of corporate blunders.
Please no name,no e-mail address.
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: Gary Polson
Subject: Re: For Bill: Re Warranty
They just don't seem to get it. It could change with an announcement
from Bom. but until then I think it is safe to assume: Warranty is
non-existant.
Thanks for the good work with this site. It is a valuable resource for
many.
Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001
From: W
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: outcome! - ?
mr. wizard has anyone heard anything definite on this issue on johnson/
evinrude owner/ warranty from the courts etc.have been following this story
for a couple of weeks and my patience is running out slowly on my engine
purchase. seems that everyone has nothing but speculation and no hard facts
as to what is going with this bankruptcy shmeal. nice to see that the
consumers come last to know anything. but the people who are going to be the
new owners (boobbardier) will sure be slobbering at the mouth about pocketing
my xxxx money into their shiney new bank account. might be shameful if my
hard earned cash ended up in mercury marines account due to the tight lips
involved in this buy out. i would expect nothing less than a little positive
news from the buyers end to keep my deal alive with one of their
(maybe)future dealers. considering that me alone will be a $9000 plus tax
loss to a company that will sure need it. with the economy slowing things had
better move along pretty swiftly or the new buyers will be looking for that
chapter 11 saga like the previous owners have done! hopefully boobardier will
unzip the lip for a little information leakage.
p.s. if you know anyone that has connections to this new buyer how about
passing this along to someone who cares!
the marine industry is nothing to toy
with considering that it is mostly a pleasure thing like you said and takes
quite a bit just to survive, i for one know i was layed off due to a boat
dealer not selling boats he was only interested in spending money not making
it! lets stop speculating and start telling facts! or i will be a new
mercury outboard owner not entirely by my own and will laugh all the way to
the bank. have a nice day, thanks
Mr. Wizard reponse: Yes we have heard from the courts. OMC went bankrupt
and was sold at auction. Their is NO warranty. Bombardier may elect to do
something, but that is totally at their discression.
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Warranty issue
To further answer the question on the warranty issue:
Yesterday I also received a bankruptcy notice listing myself as a creditor.
I had a motor that was supposed to still be in warranty until March. I figured
my warranty was no good, but I guess this is how they are dealing with those
of us who were still under an OMC warranty.
Too bad. So sad. We are now down the stream, with a motor, with no warranty.
I realize things happen, but this sure makes me wonder why anyone who has
gotten caught in this warranty mess would ever consider buying OMC products
again. That is something that Bombardier should give some serious consideration
to. I spent a good sum of hard earned money to put that new motor on my boat,
only to get left hoping I do not have a problem with it.
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
From: Jeff
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Princecraft
Mr. Wizard:
Have you got any information on what is going to happen to the
Princecraft line of boats? Will Genmar own that one too?
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: sour grapes
please no name I find it quite interesting that Geo. Buckley said
"there are no serious buyers for OMC "
when in fact one of the best Two stroke companies in the world
just bid and got OMC also Brunswick tried unsuccessfully
(thank god!!) to buy OMC
Mr. Wizard response: He actually said their were no
"credible bidders" for the engine division. Was all just smoke
and mirrors (like Jacobs comments about Genmar not being
interested in any part of OMC), but kind of humorous when Brunswick
placed a bid.
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
From: K
To:
Subject: (no subject)
Do you suppose that the proud makers of Ski-Doo and Sea-Doo will introduce
their new outboard line as Doo-Doo?
Disclaimer: I realize that it's not fair to the proud names of Johnson and
Evinrude to make such a joke, but I'm afraid that a lot of people are now
likely to associate those names with the management at OMC, and we all
know what that smells like.
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: web site
Sir: I just put a $10 check in the mail for you,.. when I start working I'll
shoot some more your way. (From all of us OMC exer's), thank you for your
time, the professional and informative service you provide, and most of all,
for your patience and kind considerations during these trying times. We will
NOT forget. (Move over Mr. Jacobs, there's another sharp tool in the shed
!!!!!!!! )
Again, thank you very much,
Mr. Wizard Response: A big thanks to those who have sent donations.
Details on how to do so are on the main page.
Wed Feb 14
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: New OMC owner?
I've seen the website about OMC's financial disaster and I commend
you for compiling all of that information. Is there any new information
on who the new owner is? My family owned an OMC dealership for
15 years that was sold just last year. I can honestly attest to the fact
that this couldn't have happened to a more deserving company. Though
quality control was never an overwhelming strength for OMC, its final
undoing was the abysmal manner in which it treated its dealers. I'm
anxious to see which company now has the dubious honor of sorting
through the wreckage.
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Prince craft
I don't see Prince Craft as being part of Genmar, possibly because of
Lund. Who may take Prince Craft..your thoughts
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: C
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: OMC
Hey Wiz: Perhaps you can help me with two bits of OMC info:
I recall reading that a group of OMC engineers formed a consulting compnay
after the banruptcy to support Ficht, and they had a website called
DFI.com, but I get some computer parts site when I try that. do you know
how to reach them?
Second, I'm trying to find out the cost to OMC for the Ficht retrofit (they
never called it a "recall") program of 1999, when all the heads, etc. were
replaced in the field. I recall a release with a dollar figure, but can't
find it anywhere. Have searched usual databases, etc. do you have this info
at hand?
Mr. Wizard response: Try http://www.dfitechnologies.com
I also seem to recall seeing a cost for the retrofit, but have trouble finding
it now. You might try searching their old SEC filings on
http://www.sec.gov/edgarhp.htm
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
The silence of Bombardier is inexplicable. There is no likely regulatory
objection to the sale and every day of continued silence is another nail
of damage in the coffin into which Johnson and Evinrude have been cast.
I speak with feeling having been and o.m.c. distributor for the island of
Jamaica for the last thirty years and having been left to deal with a big
group of very hostile and physically dangerous commercial fishermen out
here who are'nt interested in corporate collapses and fine points of law
about warranty. These guys will kill you over warranty...not sue you. If
Bombardier do not say something soon I am left with the suspicion that there
is some secret deal with them and Brunswick to kill off the o,m,c, brands
quietly while getting some pay off from Mercury such as a lucrative licence
agreement involving Ficht. I have lost all faith in corporate morality.
Mr Wizard response: We may be seeing some of Bombardier's
cultural differences in how these things are addressed? Or they may
really not yet have a plan.
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier
Bombardier is probably taking care of loose ends and legal questions.
Knowing what I know about our legal system, Bombardier would show
good judgement to dot the i and cross the t. This will hopefully be
accomplished this week. Many dealers are still holding on to the hope that
Johnson and Evinrude will come back strong and soon. Every day that
Bombardier takes to get their ducks in a row is one more day that dealers
must operate without certainty. I for one have signed up with Yamaha and
will do Mercury next if I do not hear from Bombardier this week.
Time is of the essence.
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Calhoun
I appreciate all of the coverage of breaking news of OMC North. As a
Proud employee of OMC Calhoun for 17 years, I would appreciate it if any
news covering the South end of this once great company.
We are (were) employees just like you!
OMC Calhoun
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC old management - Bankruptcy Form B9F
From xxxx
Wizard oh great one!
Have you heard any news about Fix and his band of hinge-men? I
wonder if they took their several million ran. We would like to keep
tabs on where these yay-hoo's go so we can let the world know what
they are all about. At least we can warn the people they work with
not to trust them and not go to work for any company that hires them.
Maybe being loyal to Soros to the bitter end he will take care of them
by putting them on some secluded island in the south pacific.
I received a Bankruptcy form B9F (4 of the same one in different
mailings) and I'm listed as a creditor. Are other formal employee's
receiving this form? I don't believe it will do any good to fill these out
and wouldn't the class action suites take care of formal employee's?
I know you can not give legal advise but maybe one of your readers
have heard or could respond to these questions.
Regards, xxxx
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bombardier Being Tightlipped
Concerning the gentleman who wrote about Bombardier being tight lipped
on the purchase of OMC, I have this tidbit of information to offer him.
Bombardier thinks strategically from a business standpoint and
compassionately fro the dealers and customers who are suffering from the
xxxx poor management of the old OMc. Do you realize it has been less
than 5 business days since the court approved the sale. Are they suppose
to snap their fingers and everything fall into place. You need a reality
check. The majority of the dealers are ecstatic about who will now be in
control of Johnson/Evinrude. You wanted to know more information about
Bombardier. Here's a few facts. OMC laid off almost all of their
workforce of 7700, Bombardier employs 59,000 worldwide in 12 countries.
Their fiscal year ending Jan. 31st, 2000 totaled $13.6 billion. Let's
see they gave $50 million for OMC. You won't see Bombardier filing
chapter 11 in your lifetime. They own Bombardier Aerospace,the world's
third largest. Bombardier transportation is a leader in railways and
train sets. They are a leader in a full line of financial services
for consumer,inventory,commercial, and industrial markets; which is
called Bombardier Capital. And since Johnson/Evinrude will probably fall
into this family, there is Bombardier Recreational. This line consist of
Ski-Doo snowmobiles (market leader), Seadoo watercraft and jet
boats(market leader), and the newest line which is an ATV line. Give
them time to develop a plan and I know everybody will be much happier.
Oh, by the way, Brunswick may want to pay close attention to the
above... (market leader) because there is a very good possibilty they
will be seeing this next to their outboard line of products as well in
the next few years.
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: Richard
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Hello Mr. wizard
Answers to Question on forms being received in the mail. I too received
many forms of the B9F.This form does officially notify you that you are a
creditor. The following information, I received through the OMC-Alumni
Group. In order to receive payment for any monetary losses that the former
OMC owes you, vacation, travel expenses, or other pay, you must submit
form B10 "Proof of Claim" form that is available on www.ilnb.uscourts.gov.
However, you may need to down load adobe acrobat in order to open the
form. If you have adobe, or after you download it, www.adobe.com, click
on the "Forms" button, then click on "Local Forms" then find "Proof of Claim",
double click on it and the form will come up. Click on the adobe printer
button and it will print the form and the instructions page. Here are some
numbers that must be used in filling out the form. In the upper right hand
corner of the form, put a check mark on Chapter 11. Then write or type
in the name of debtor, Outboard Marine Corporation. Case Number is
00-37405. Then your "Legal Name". This is a legal form so no nicknames.
Then fill in your Name, Address, and Telephone number. In the "Account
or other number" box fill in OMC Tax I.D. #36-1589715. Next, in "Basis for
Claim, check the box for Wages, Salaries and Compensation. Fill in your
Social Security Number and the dates for the unpaid compensation. I listed
the full year up to the termination date. Date debt was incurred, I believe
should be 21 December 2000. Then in #4 list your monetary claim. Next,
check box #6 and relist your claim total. Then date your form, sign it and
then print your name after it. Then mail it to the address listed below the
name of the form. If you want verification that the court did receive your
form and registered it, also send a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope with
and they will return a receipt. Normal postage does mail it. I had mine
weighed in and it went at $.34. If you have proof of your claims, send
copies stapled with the form. I.e. a copy of your last check stub showing
how many vacation hours you have left etc........It will also show your
hourly rate or salary and so forth. I'm not sure how to list severance, but
figured one week per year of service, per policy, times hourly rate.
Hope this helped.
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: Richard
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Hello again
I just received a notice from the OMC-Alumni Lawyer concerning the
"Proof of Claim" form. He stated to watch for a posting on the website, I
imagine the "Lighthouse" later today. I believe there will be more accurate
information listed there for all. Thanks for all your hard work and diligence
in keeping us up to date and leaning on you. You have big shoulders.
We need to send towels.
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 200
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Polaris
Minneapolis Business wire Ron Bills, general manager of the Polaris
Watercraft Division, is pleased to announce that the company has
reached an agreement with Bombardeir Inc. to supply Polaris with Ficht
technology. Bombardeir agreed to manufacture and supply two-stroke
engines to Polaris and other parties. Mr.Wizard, I pulled up Polaris
on yahoo and then pulled up Polaris Industries.
Since my accident at OMC, I have had to live like all the ex-employees
are now, going on 4 years in July. I feel for them. We had our taxes filled
out, just on may cobra insurance, Doctor and medicines I paid out over
$6000.00.
Thanks for caring.
Thurs Feb 15
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Please do not use my name or e-mail address.
This is in response to a Feb. 13th comment from J. subject New Omc
Owner. You may or may not know exactly what you are talking about ,
I'm not sure how OMC treated it's dealers, but I do know that My
husband has been in Quaility control his whole 15 yrs. with Omc
and I know how dedicated all those that worked with/under him
were.When you said it could'nt have happened to a better company
do you mean the almost defrey of OMC/Johnson , Evinrude?
Well if that's what you mean then you are right up there with Roger
Fix as being one of the most cold heartest people I have ever heard
of . Did you ever stop and think of all the OMC employees that have
been worrying since Christmas or all that may have lost their homes
due to this unfortionate insident? I bet the years you/your family
owned the buisness it made you a good living and upon it's selling
probubly left you and yours setting pretty. From now on when you
make a nasty comment that you abviously don't or have'nt looked
at the whole picture try to before you speak. And maybe the new
owners may be the dubious to streighten out the wreakage. We'll see.
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: Gordon
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Stratos/Javelin World Championship
I've just recently accessed this website. The questions that have not
been addressed either on the internet or by our local tournament director
for the Stratos/Javelin World Championship qualifying tournaments are:
Is the western regional tourney at Clear cancelled? If so when and how
are we to get our entry fees refunded since I would assume that they
would be held in a separate account fromOMC's assets? Is the World
Championship still going as planned for those regions that have already
had their tournaments?
Mr. Wizard response: The OLD OMC no longer exists!!!
Whatever may or may not happen is up to Bombardier and Genmar.
In terms of you entry fees, suspect you can kiss them goodbye.
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: kenneth
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: reopening
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: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: W
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: tight lipped
tight lips are sinking the ship! cant help notice dealers liquidating omc.
stock so fast it would make your eyes hurt to watch. the only problem is it
aint goin no where and boat sales contracts from the boat shows slipping into
the waste baskets so fast they get road burn on the way down. one dealer i
spoke with is trying to hatch his stock into a different brand only to wake
up the next day and open the warehouse door disappointed to see omc. still on
the box. another said he is loading his on a b-52 flying at altitude dropping
them and sceaming bombardier away. and yet another dealer has already picked
up two new lines of engines just to keep his head above water and still might
drown. and is loosin deals. at the boat shows the dealers with omc products
are just about waving tin cups wearing dark glasses. if any one person thinks
for one second that snapping fingers wont make a difference which bombardier
hasnt even done that either doesnt realize exactly what is at risk here. at
the rate things are going the industry is going to end up with a giant omc
recycle bin in a matter of days judging by the way things are going. up to
this point if you are a dealer for omc engines you cant give the things away.
and where do you suppose their leases,insurance,payroll etc. come from the
goose with the golden eggs.this is the reason for aknowleging your intention
like bombardier should be doing at least the dealers would be given some hope
to at least sell something being able to tell the customer something besides
,duh you get what you get and you like it!
yours truly reality check
p.s. how much more real can you be! just understand
i am a omc fan and also stand behind the marine industry 100%
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Check this out.
Gary and Mr. Wizard,
http://pluto.beseen.com/boardroom/w/48659/View?n=02641
RBBI Comment: Link above it to a message on Lighthouse about Bombardier's plans.
Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001
From: X
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: This Just In!!!
fax recv'd 8 am EST
Fax recv'd from
QUOTE:
Bombardier Recreational Products
February 15, 2001
Dear Dealers and Distributors,
It gives me great pleasure to inform you that on February 9, 2001,
the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois
approved the joint bid of Bombardier Motor Corporation of America and
JTC Acquisition LLC for certain assets of Outboard Marine Corporation
(OMC) and it affiliates.
The joint bid was for a total consideration of $95 million US and
Bombardier's share is slightly more than half that amount. The sale to
Bombardier is still subject to regulatory approval. Upon closing,
Bombardier will receive certain engine assets and JTC Acquisition LLC
will receive certain boat assets. The engine assets include Evinrude
and Johnson Outboards and FICHT RAM Injection technology.
I am very excited about this potential acquisition and what it will
mean for Bombardier Recreational Products and, also what it will mean
for you. Today we are holding a Press Conference at the Miami
International Boat Show to celebrate the anticipated purchase of these
great, long-lasting, marine brands and I hope that in the near future,
we will have the opportunity to meet and discuss the challenges ahead of
us. These brands will only become stronger under the vision that
Bombardier Recreational Products has for them.
As the new President and Chief Operating Officer of Bombardier
Recreational Products, I believe that we have a great leadership team
and that we have great opportunities ahead of us. It is our goal to
ensure that our customers continue to enjoy the high quality outboard
engines that you have been providing them thus far. The Evinrude and
Johnson outboard engines and FICHT RAM Injection technology, will be
joining a group of quality products that are on the leading edge in all
categories: Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, SEa-Doo watercraft, Sea-Doo
sport boats, Bombardier ATV's and Rotax engines.
We will be working on the Business Action Plan in the upcoming
weeks to transition these three historic brands into the Bombardier
family. We will keep you abreast of the direction in which we will be
heading. I look forward to what the future holds for all of us and wish
you a great selling season.
Cordially yours,
sig------------
Michael Baril
President and Chief Operating Officer
--
The typo's and mis-spellings are mine, trademark symbols left out
Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: princecraft
As a Princecraft dealer, one of the few here in the south, we are most
concerned with the issue of Princecraft not being listed as one of the
companies sold. We are thrilled that Genmar (JTC) will be taking over most
of the boat operations. We carry Genmar's Nova line, and are impressed with
the quality and service offered by this company. Does anyone have any new
information on the fate of the Princecraft line? With Princecraft being
based in Canada, perhaps it was left out of the sale because Bombardier wants
this line for itself, or knows of a company there that is interested, and
therefore made a deal to allow it to be left out of the JTC lineup. It is a
high-quality product that you would expect would not have a problem being
picked up.
Mr. Wizard reply: See Feb 14 Montreal Gazette item we posted in
Recent News section today.
Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: B9F & B10 Forms
Good Morning Wizard,
I would like to thank Richard for the information he supplied concerning
the proof of claim form. His detailed procedure to access the forms were
right on and I had no trouble getting and printing out the Proof of Claim
form (B10). My problem is I worked for the OMC boat group and on the
form B9F it list each division with a different case number i.e. Fishing boat
group 00-37410 and Reccreational group number 00-37409 etc. I filed my
claim under the number Richard gave out for OMC 00-37405. I wonder if
this is a catch all for all claims.
Any body out there that can help clarify this? I called the numbers on the
forms and as usual the goverment was no help.
Thanks,
Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001
From: s
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: A Gazette article suggested by Sami
Hi Mr. Wizard,
XX stopped by The Montreal Gazette and suggested that you read a
news article at the following address:
http://www.montrealgazette.com/business/pages/010214/5055009.html
Your friend added this message....
For all those who want to know about Princecraft/Altra Marine Boats.
This article appeared in the Montreal Gazette February 14th/01
The Montreal Gazette
http://www.montrealgazette.com
Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001
From: Jim
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: Warranty
I bought two 2001 ficht 150's in Sept and I got the mailing from OMC
about the bankruptcy, creditor etc. I understand all the proceedings
to this point and am aware of the new owners etc but what does this
sheet mean and How should I proceed? Especially considering I have
no warranty at this time.
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: Sean
To: Gary
Subject: OMC
It would be nice to hear more, especially about OMC here in Australia
Fri Feb 16
Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001
From: W
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: johnson o/b deal
i spoke to my dealer today exchanged some thoughts about the takeover at omc.
he received the fax about the miami announcement by bombardier. then we
exchanged some more thoughts. i have come to the conclusion that the future
is getting very bright towards the end of this dark tunnel i have been
traveling through. my conclusion is that im going to purchase the deal i
discussed earlier with this boat/ motor. taking a johnson which is what i
wanted all along not the merc sorry brunswick.and not only on good faith but
just because the bankruptcy honestly did little to scare me. my sarcasm was
based more on the unknown more than anything. guess you have to create your
own issues in order to gain satisfaction. i guess you can say the war within
myself has been won. i decided to add a first protection plan to the contract
just till the smoke clears completely around the 21 or 24, to no prevail i
had to have a backup plan incase of a issue arising between now and then.the
dealer will hold our contract until bombardier settles this warranty dispute.
and if the first protection ends up the better then i will take it, if their
warranty does not come through as expected, kind of covering your bases you
might say.if there are any readers out there interested in how i am handling
this. this is basically the best way to buy omc at this particular time if
you are worried about losing a boatshow deal. just keep in mind that the
first protection policy cost is $1000.00 per year so its going to cost in
order to cover any repairsyou might run into,. this will basically take the
place of the first year warranty if by chance we dont happen to get one
through the new owners. but either way im going to do this deal. the dealer
is going to rig the boat starting next week and hopefully bombardier will
release warranty issues by the time we are ready to do the paperwork. either
way we will be boating by spring and it will be johnson powered. to all the
people that have pending deals good luck to all of you and dont be afraid to
go by your gut feelings if you have faith, the will of the people will
prevail. as they say good triumphs over evil. and to all my fellow marine
techs in the industry i wish you men and women the very best of luck
hopefully going back to work soon at what you do best, building quality
engines because the one you built last year will be pushing me down the
river, yee ha. i will keep you up to date as to how things are going from
time to time and also to the wizard for such an outstanding web site. if it
were not for you i would be lost in a sea of confusion since omc,s web site
is not very entertaining at this particular time. keep in touch ,i am sending
a donation for the great information you have passed along keep up the good
work hopefully this mess will get resolved and i wont see another in my
lifetime. thanks. hopefully, boating for years.
RBBI Note: If anybody is still looking for a job, we posted several more
job openings this morning on our Job Openings for ex-OMC Employees page.
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: Ralph
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
What are your thoughts pertaining to Bombardier reopening the plants all over
the country, especially in the southeast??
Any forcast on what will happen to the older retirees as far as health insurance???
We have already lost our Management Incentive Plan Pension, they paid it on
Jan.1st and then went into our checking account and withdrew the money on
Jan 17, we did not know that until we got our bank statement and a call from a friend.
I am interested in your thoughts on the health insurance... That will be
devastating to we older retirees that can no longer go back to work...We have
been retired for many years and our income has been shrinking steady with
the increase in the cost of living over the years and now to have to pay for our
insurance and prescriptions.
Penny for your thoughts... Thank you
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: bombardier announcement
thought bombardier was making an announcement at the Miami boat show at 5
p.m. yesterday. Haven't seen anything about it in any forum, including this
one. Anybody have any info on announcement, if made? Appreciate the site,
Mr. Wizard. We started our OMC dealership in April of last year. OMC never
got our company info right on their books, so we are not receiving any faxes
or other communication from the new owners. We check your site several times
a day so we know what to tell our customers when they ask the tuff questions.
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: El Salvador
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: current OMC International dealers?
We are International Omc dealer in Central America and we are in complete
shadows, we do not know who should we contact for ordering parts and engines.
Please advise us in this matter.
Thank your for your comments.
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: n
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: warranty
Mr. Wizard.
What am to do about my warranty on my motor ? I bought the boat and
motor a year ago. the engine has blown up twice. OMC would not replace
the motor they rather fix it. the motor is still under warranty I'm out of luck
or is there someone that i can get incontact with
Mr. Wizard response: There is NO warranty. OMC declared bankruptcy and
was sold. Both Bombardier and Genmar have announced they may provide
some sort of warranty protection for existing units, but neither has provided
details.
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: warranty
Once again I commend you for your coverage, it is the first thing I
check when I get to the office in the morning.
Do you have any information concerning warranties on new motors in
stock? It would be benifical to know since boat don't go well without
motors.
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Press Conference @ Miami
Does anyone have a copy of the press release? We suggested Bombardier
fax all its' dealers, but have not heard from them with it. Checked Miami
Herald, Ft. Lauderdale and Palm Beach papers...nothing anywhere except
a blurb from Miami re: Genmar. Thanks.
Mr. Wizard reply: We have a link to the original Bombardier and Genmar
press releases in our Recent News Coverage as well as a link to a report on
the press conference and the original Bombardier blast fax.
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Yesterday at the Miami Boat Show I talked to an old friend who is the
President of a well-known boat manufacturer. Part of our discussion was
about OMC.
His understanding on the Genmar and Bombardier press releases concerning
the purchases are as follows:
1. Genmar did not want to just come in and pick up the warranty liability
for the boats in the field because they couldn't get a good handle on the
total liability. Rumor of about 300 boats with soft bottoms from just one
of the manufacturers in the OMC boat group.
2. Bombardier had a similar concern about the potentially large, and
currently immeasurable, warranty claims, especially for burning Fichts.
3. Rebates to dealers will not be honored.
Another friend said that a number of states have laws that require a buying
company that continues with old trade names to honor old warranties.
The rebate issue will probably be settled on a dealer-by-dealer basis. You
can bet that the bigger ones will get some future consideration to continue
to sell product.
The manufacturers' reps for these products better have a good base salary
program. Commissions are going to be tough for a while.
Sat Feb 17
Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Rumors
Please leave my name and e-mail address off. The rumor of 300 boats
with soft hulls is just that a rumor. The warranty issues that concerned
hulls have all been resolved before the bankruptcy happened. Genmar
has bought a wonder group of boat brands and hopefully employees.
The boat groups need strong management. I believe that the sales will
be there when they open back up and offer warranty on there products.
Stratos, Hydra Sport and Chris Craft's new look and hull designs are
awesome. There are alot of ex-boat plant employees just chomping at the
bit to prove that with the right management and the right mix of former
employees the boat plants will be profitable.
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2001
From: V
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: OMC/Bomb
Wiz: Buzz on the OMC Alumni chat area tonight is that all but 5 employees
from the "Transition Staff" at OMC Waukegan have been let go.
I read the comments of the Bomb. manager at Miami, and it sounds like they
are in no rush to crank up outboard production, just parts to get dealers
going again.
See the big Honda 200/225 at Miami? That is the future--not a DFI
two-stroke. I expect Bomb has figured that out as well.
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2001 0
From: M
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Mr. Wizzard: What is the financial condition of Bombardier? Do they have
the deep pockets to keep it going? Lets face it the motor divisions
(Johnson-Evinrude) have not turned a profit for the past 10 years. Now they
have completely lost the market. Its not going to turn around tomorrow.
Mr. Wizard reply: Suggest you visit
http://www.bombardier.com
They are several times the size of Brunswick.
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: HEY
To the person that was talking with the "Big Shot" at the Miami boat show:
The issues with Ficht are solved...The engines had pistons failures (main
issues)
A few people have reported issues with fire, that is why they need the kit.
Only the 200 and 225 hp."Failure is the mother of invention"
Dealers and customers are aware of this!!!
Mercury and Yamaha have many issues, and the only way out for them is go
into four stroke.....What a way out ha???
So you can tell the "Big Shot" boat manufacture (that probably is going to
apply for a different job very soon) That two monsters are the owners of
OMC...and from now on..the road is going to be very, very Bumpy...
By the way I don't work for OMC.
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