Boat Sylvan: Is It Worthy?

Sylvan boats have received mixed reviews from customers. Some have praised the boats for their durability, stating that they have had no issues with leaks even after years of use. Others have criticised the boats for their poor craftsmanship, weak bows, and hull problems. Some customers have also reported issues with shifting and loose rivets. However, it is worth noting that many of the positive reviews are for older models, with some customers suggesting that the quality of Sylvan boats has declined in recent years. Overall, while some people have had positive experiences with Sylvan boats, there are also several reports of issues and problems, which suggests that there may be some truth to the criticism.

Sylvan boats have a history of hull problems, including leaks and cracks

Some owners have reported issues with loose rivets, which can lead to leaks. One owner of a 2006 Sylvan Explorer noted that the hull had loose rivets, and they had to J.B. weld the rivets to address the issue. Similarly, a 2006 fiberglass model was reported to have issues with loose rivets. These issues with rivets and hull integrity have been observed across different models and years, including a 1999 "Back" Troller, a 2001 Sylvan 1600 Expedition, and an 18' Sylvan from 1986.

While some Sylvan boats have experienced these hull problems, it is important to note that not all boats of this brand will necessarily have the same issues. Some owners have reported no problems with leaks or hull integrity, even after several years of use. Additionally, hull issues can sometimes be attributed to abuse or improper use, such as slamming the boat into waves at high speeds.

Some Sylvan boat owners have reported issues with loose rivets

In one instance, a Sylvan boat owner reported that their tow ring busted loose, and they were advised to gain access to the inside of the transom and use through bolts for a more secure repair. Another owner of a 1995 19' Pro Select Sylvan boat experienced hull problems and had to have the hull repaired three years in a row. They contacted the dealer and Sylvan directly to take advantage of the company's 10-year prorated warranty on their hulls.

Additionally, a few owners have shared their experiences with Sylvan boats from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s, some of which involved issues with loose rivets. One owner mentioned that their 1986 18' Sylvan had no problems, while another owner of a 1989 16' Sylvan experienced no structural issues despite frequent use on Lake Erie. A few other owners of Sylvan boats from the late 1970s to the early 2000s reported mixed experiences, with some encountering leaks and others having no issues.

It is worth noting that Sylvan boats have gone through a redesign over the years. The company was aware of previous issues with their hulls and implemented a major redesign in the mid-1980s, which reportedly remedied the problem. Therefore, when considering a Sylvan boat, it is essential to take into account the boat's age, maintenance history, and overall condition, as well as to carefully inspect the transom and floor for any signs of rot or damage.

Sylvan boats have been described as not premium but good

Sylvan boats have been described as "not premium but good". While some users have reported issues with their boats, such as loose rivets, hull leaks, and carpet problems, others have praised their Sylvan boats for being well-built and durable, even when used in rough water conditions.

One user cautioned against buying a Sylvan boat, citing issues with the aluminium nose piece, hull, carpet, and shifting mechanism on their 2006 Sylvan Explorer. They also mentioned that the dealer was unhelpful in resolving these problems. However, other users have shared positive experiences with their Sylvan boats, some even recommending them to others.

Several users have specifically mentioned the strength and durability of their Sylvan boats, even when used in rough water conditions. One user shared that their 1995 21-foot Sylvan boat had "never had a problem structurally" and had been used on Lake Erie, a large body of water, without any issues. Another user with a 1988 22-foot Sylvan boat also reported no structural issues after five years of use.

Some users have mentioned issues with their boats, but these seem to be isolated cases. One user experienced a hull leak in their 1995 19-foot Sylvan boat, while another had to replace the floor of their 1988 22-foot Sylvan boat. However, these issues were resolved, and the boats continued to provide satisfactory performance.

Overall, while Sylvan boats may not be considered premium, they are generally well-regarded by their owners, with many users reporting positive experiences and recommending the brand to others. While there may be some isolated cases of issues, the majority of users seem to be satisfied with the performance, durability, and handling of their Sylvan boats, even in challenging water conditions.

Sylvan boats have been criticised for poor craftsmanship, including sharp corners in the lumber

Another user on a different forum shared a similar experience, stating that they had to replace the floor of their Sylvan boat shortly after purchase due to soft wood. Soft or weak wood can be a safety hazard and can lead to structural issues with the boat over time.

In addition to issues with the lumber, some Sylvan boat owners have reported problems with leaking. One user shared their experience, stating that they discovered leaks in their boat the hard way. Leaks can be dangerous and can lead to water ingress, which can damage electrical systems and compromise the boat's structural integrity.

Some users have also reported issues with loose rivets on their Sylvan boats. Rivets are crucial in the construction of aluminium boats, as they hold the hull together. Loose rivets can lead to leaks and compromise the structural integrity of the boat, affecting its performance and safety.

While not all Sylvan boats will have these issues, it is important to carefully inspect any Sylvan boat before purchase and be aware of potential problems. Some of these issues may be covered under warranty, so it is essential to review the warranty information and understand what is covered and for how long.

Overall, while Sylvan boats can vary in quality, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of poor craftsmanship and carefully inspect any boat they are considering for purchase to ensure it is safe and structurally sound.

Some Sylvan boats have been praised for their durability, with one owner saying they never leaked a drop

Sylvan boats have received mixed reviews from owners, with some praising their durability and others expressing disappointment with their performance and structural integrity.

Some owners have reported issues with their Sylvan boats, including leaking, loose rivets, hull cracks, and carpet issues. One owner cautioned against buying Sylvan boats, citing various problems with their 2006 Sylvan Explorer, such as loose rivets, carpet issues, and shifting problems. Another owner experienced a near-sinking incident due to a huge crack in the hull of their Sylvan boat.

However, other owners have had more positive experiences with their Sylvan boats. One owner praised the durability of their 1982 16 1/2 Rodmaster, stating that it had only one minor hull leak that was easily fixed. Another owner shared that they had an older Sylvan from the 1980s that held up well, even after many years of use. Several owners also mentioned that their Sylvan boats had never leaked, even when navigating through waves.

Overall, while some Sylvan boats have been praised for their durability, there are also reports of issues and mixed reviews from owners. It is important to consider the specific model, age, and maintenance history of a boat when evaluating its quality and durability.

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