232 With Broken Swim Platform

[ccook232]

Hello all, new user here looking for help! My dad has a 2013 Cobalt 232 that our family loves. While he was out the other day he broke the metal knob on the manual swim platform that secures the platform while driving and while deployed in the water. You pull the knob to unlock the platform while stored and then pull the knob again the unlock the platform while in the water. I took a pic of the area on the platform that the knob usually rests, but wasn't able to get my hands on any of the pieces. Our local dealer provided a part from a desk drawer that was too big for the space and the knob screwed onto the cylinder. Our previous part had the knob being pulled towards the motor to release the piece holding the platform secure. Their parts guy said to bore out the hole to make it fit. I am leery of doing so. Anyone have any helpful advice?!?

Below are pictures of the two holes that the knob/cylinder used to use. Hope they help at least a little to explain my situation. Thank you all for your time and help!

Collins

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[Big Block Power]

I personally don't have any experience with the new style platform. I would call Cobalt cust assist for the part number. But hang on to your shorts. The last knob I bought for my tower was $75. But it's the correct one.

[ccook232]

Thanks for the reply! Who did you call at cobalt? I only see a page that points me towards a dealer to call for parts.

[jhnmdahl]

You can call Cobalt directly at 800-468-5764, and the operator will help you find the right person to get the right part. They may still want to sell it to you through a dealer, but your boat is new enough they'll have the right part.

And for the record, boring out the hole because you have the wrong part sounds like a horrible idea - not the best customer service from your local dealer

[Big Block Power]

What John said about the dealer. I personally would order it through another dealer and have them ship it to you. Cobalt has great cust assist.

[ccook232]

Awesome, thank you both for your help! Agree don't figure I'll use that dealer anymore. Will try that number in the morning. Thanks again all!

[Big Block Power]

I've also emailed them everytime for info. They have responded each time.

[Southernboatman]

And likely covered under warranty. Welcome ccook!

[Bfun220]

And for the record, boring out the hole because you have the wrong part sounds like a horrible idea - not the best customer service from your local dealer

That's right up there with use a bigger hammer.

[ccook232]

An update for those interested, I spoke with a customer care rep and he informed me that they have redesigned the knob due to consistent problems in the past with it breaking. The part I was sold is correct and that the metal mounting brackets would need to be bored out to allow for usage of the new piece. However, he said that the boat's warranty will cover the cost of the part and the installation. So some good news in that I get a refund of the $250 I spent for the part by itself and we will get a dealer to install it for us. Bad news is that we have to get the boat to the dealership to get the work done.

Wanted to say thank you all again for your wisdom and for pointing me in the right direction! Hope everyone has a great summer!

Thanks, Collin

[Big Block Power]

Stick around Collin and join the fun. Liquid is still color blind right Perry?

[BrianOlson]

Same problem here, thankfully found this thread, which is why I joined to forum. Thanks guys!

[c019740]

Just happened today on my 242. Thanks guys!

[AsLan7]

Just happened today on my 242. Thanks guys!

.
Hey C0... welcome to the Cobaltchat forum. So glad you found us!

Any pics? How is she powered?

Again welcome aboard mate!

.

[TwoBurgers]

Hey gents! Looks like I too have experienced the same issue. A local welder is asking $275 to stainless weld the part together. I would agree the small diameter rod is the wink link, but updating the part with a larger diameter rod should only require a larger hole (easy enough with a drill). So, I may get the original part welded and order the new part for peace of mind. The rod connection at the bullet shaped plunger failed / fell apart in my drive as I was cleaning the step before leaving for the ramp, so I am lucky to have all the pieces. I'll circle back when I have more details.
Chris