Hi, I dont know about how the weld was prepped. The first crack was right next to the original BRP weld. After the repair it looked fairly poor because it had been hand welded. Then the second time the weld shop decided to add re-inforcing to beef it up. The result is as per the attached photo. Probably strong, and acceptable for a running repair but I really want a new tower because the problem is inherent of the design. Possibly the tower material was faulty, or the new welding has changed the alloy's strength or hardness. I dont know and really dont care, I just want an acceptable fix.Was the Bar material beveled? Did they grind the weld smooth after? Granted this should have never happened, but. It could be the welder look for another weld shop. Good Luck! I hope I never have this problem.I am one unhappy customer. I have a 2005 model with tower. The tower failed after about 6 months of ownership. The failure was a crack on one side of the tower at the hinge point just above where the large thumbscrews fit. After weeks of waiting the BRP authorised a warranty weld (I was not happy with this but what could I do I wanted to use the boat).
Then this year the tower failed again just below the old repair weld. It also partially failed on the other side at the same location. This was three months ago and BRP will not give a decision. I want a new tower because it seems like an engineering problem.
My dealer has another boat with the same problem. He did weld my boat back up so that I could use it - it looks horrible now. I have been told this is a Californian problem because no where else in the country are boats towed so far, maybe the roads here are worse to? Go figure.
I am about to write a stiff letter to my dealer (who I dont blame, he has done his best). If this doesn't work then I guess an attorney comes next.
I will never by a BRP product again - honest!
I am preparing a letter to my dealer now, if that doesn't get a reply within say 2 weeks I will try to send all information to the Canada address (thanks for the lead). If that doesn't work then I guess it only leaves an approach via an attorney. I have been very patient, buts that coming to an end.