Regulator boats are known for their exceptional quality, seaworthiness, and performance. But like any boat, they are not without their problems. Operational since 1988, they have their share of common issues. Some problems that we found were not brand specific.
If you are looking to buy a new Regulator boat then you must be aware of the common problems of these boats. Here we have listed some of the most frequently occurring issues with Regulator boats.
Structural Issue
Old Regulator boats manufactured around 90s had a major issue with the structure of the boat. The problem was so severe that in some cases, the hull started to separate from the deck. Although this issue has been resolved in the newer models it is still something that you should be aware of.
The problem lay in the grid system design which was not properly reinforced. As a result, the hull and deck were not properly supported leading to the issue of delamination.
This problem accounted for a lot of repair charges. Newer Regulator boats don’t have this issue as they use a much improved and reinforced grid system.
Bonding Issue Between the Grillage and Hull
Another structural issue that was seen in early Regulator boats was the bonding problem between the hull and the grillage. The grillage is basically a network of wires or rods that are used to reinforce the hull.
In some cases, it was seen that there was no bonding material used between the hull and the grillage. As a result, the hull and the grillage were not properly attached to each other. This led to serious consequences like the hull breaking away from the grillage in rough waters.
This problem was also resolved in the newer models by using proper bonding materials between the hull and the grillage.
Fiberglass Flexing Issue
One of the most common issues with Regulator boats is the fiberglass flexing issue. This problem is seen in both old and new models of Regulator boats.
The problem arises due to the fact that the hulls of these boats are made out of fiberglass. In some cases, it was seen that the hull would start to flex and deform due to the weight of the engine.
This would lead to serious problems like cracks in the hull and even total failure of the boat. The problem was eventually resolved by using a stronger and more rigid hull material.
Wiring Issue Showing Inaccurate Amps.
Older Regulator boats had a serious issue with the wiring. In some cases, it was seen that the wiring would start to show inaccurate amps.
As a result, the boat’s electrical system would not work properly leading to all sorts of problems. The problem was eventually resolved in the newer models by using better quality wiring.
The Grounding System Not Properly Designed
Older Regulator boats had a serious issue with the grounding system. In some cases, it was seen that the grounding system was not properly designed.
As a result, the boat’s electrical system would not work properly leading to voltage leaks and other problems. The problem was eventually resolved in the newer models by using a better quality grounding system.
Fuel Pressure Regulator Hung Open
One of the most common issues with Regulator boats is the fuel pressure regulator hung open. This problem is seen in both old and new models of Regulator boats.
The problem arises due to the fact that the fuel pressure regulator is not properly designed. In some cases, it was seen that the fuel pressure regulator would hang open resulting in a loss of fuel pressure.
This would lead to serious problems like the engine stalling or even shutting down completely. The problem was eventually resolved in the newer models by using a better quality fuel pressure regulator.
This problem can be dealt with by contacting the outboard motor manufacturer and getting a new fuel pressure regulator.
Water in the Bilge
One of the most common issues with Regulator boats is water in the bilge. This problem is seen in both old and new models of Regulator boats.
The problem arises due to the fact that the bilge pump is not properly designed. In some cases, it was seen that the bilge pump would not work properly resulting in water accumulation in the bilge.
This would lead to serious problems like the engine stalling or even shutting down completely. The problem was eventually resolved in the newer models by using a better quality bilge pump.
Foam Filled With Water
Old Regulator boats have this problem of the foam filling up with water. In some cases, it was seen that the foam would start to absorb water resulting in a loss of buoyancy.
It was hard to detect the problem firsthand but over time the boat would tilt to one side due to the weight of the water-filled foam. The problem was eventually resolved in the newer models.
Gelcoat Peeling Off
Over time, it was seen that the gelcoat on older Regulator boats would start to peel off. As a result, the boat’s hull would be exposed to the elements leading to serious problems like cracks and even total failure of the boat.
UV rays are one of the main reasons for the gelcoat to peel off. The problem was eventually resolved in the newer models by using a better quality gelcoat.
But this is not a brand-specific problem as it is seen in other boats as well. Regular waxing and polishing of the boat can help to prevent this problem.
There are many other common issues that are seen in Regulator boats. But the above mentioned are some of the most common ones. If you own a Regulator boat, it is important to keep an eye out for these problems and get them fixed as soon as possible. Failure to do so can lead to serious damage to your boat.
How Good Is Regulator Customer Care?
Regulator customer care is pretty good. They are always ready to help you with any problems that you might have with your boat.
You can contact them through their website or give them a call and they will be more than happy to help you out. They also have a wide network of service centers where you can take your boat for repair or maintenance.
Always get original parts from the company when you are replacing anything on your boat. This will ensure that your boat is in good condition and will last for a long time.
It is always better to prevent problems than to wait for them to happen and then get them fixed. So, it is important to follow the maintenance schedule provided by the company. This will help to keep your boat in good condition and will also help to avoid any major problems.
You should also keep an eye on the different parts of your boat and check for any wear and tear. If you see anything suspicious, it is better to get it checked by a professional.
Regular maintenance and care can go a long way in ensuring that your Regulator boat lasts for a long time.
Do Old Regulator Boats Hold Their Value?
Yes, old Regulator boats do hold their value. In fact, they are quite popular among boaters.
However, it is important to note that the value of an old Regulator boat depends on a number of factors like its condition, age, and provenance.
If you are looking to buy an old Regulator boat, make sure to do your research first and get a good idea of what you are getting into. Get the boat surveyed by a qualified surveyor and make sure that you are getting a good deal.
Conclude:
Regulator boats in general are great boats. They are well designed, well built, and hold their value quite well. However, like with any boat, there can be some common problems. But as long as you are aware of these problems and take proper care of your boat, you should have no issues. While there are some common problems with Regulator boats, most of them have been resolved in the newer models. If you are looking to buy an old Regulator boat, make sure to do your research first and get a good idea of what you are getting into.
Clifford Slater is a seasoned writer with over 25 years of experience in boats and fishing trips. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in boats and fishing, he has become a recognized authority in the industry. Clifford has made it a point to regularly visit popular fishing destinations such as Florida and other places in the USA to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques in the field.
Over the years, Clifford has acquired a wealth of knowledge about boats and fishing, which he has shared through his writing. His articles and books are widely read by fishing enthusiasts and professionals alike, and his insights are highly valued by those seeking to improve their skills in the field. Clifford’s passion for boats and fishing is evident in his writing, and his readers appreciate the depth of his expertise and his ability to communicate complex topics in an engaging and accessible way.
Clifford Slater’s impressive credentials and dedication to his craft make him a trusted authority in the world of boats and fishing. His commitment to staying up to date with the latest developments in the industry, combined with his deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, ensures that his writing is always informative and valuable. For those seeking to improve their skills or simply enjoy the beauty of the sea, Clifford’s writing is a must-read.
