Damage to "holes" in Mirage drive unit

I have had my Outfitter for about a year, and on my last outing I noticed that the drive unit would not stay at the pedal adjustment level that I always set it to (somewhere around "5"). The right pedal would just slip all the way to the farthest setting. Frustrated, I finally set it at 3 and was able to finish my fishing outing.

Once I got back home, I inspected the unit to see that the holes where this adjustment pin locate were ovaled out so badly on one side that they would not hold the pedal in place.

This drive unit has been used about once per week for the last year. It has never been subject to damage, and I rinse and lubricate it religiously after use.



Questions:

1. Is this total failure a common problem?

2. Can it be repaired without replacing the entire drive unit? ($450!)

3. Will it be covered under warranty, and if so, how can I get it fixed?

Thanks in advance,

-Brent

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2007 Mirage Outfitter

G'Day Brent,
This is a common problem with V1 plastic drives resulting in numerous posts. It is always best to search before posting as you will more than likely find your problem has been answered.
In this case a quick fix is to replace the adjustment pin with a bolt through the crank and drum. I used stainless cup head bolts, washers and wingnuts so that I could still easily adjust if necessary. Be careful that you have clearance in the drivewell if using wingnuts.


The drives have been upraded to V2 which eliminates this problem.
You can upgrade yourself using Roadrunners excellent guide found here:
http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewt ... sc&start=0
and here:
http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=8642
Talk to your dealer about warranty but it should be covered. My dealer supplied the newer drums and I bought the newer idler cable and chain for my upgrade.

Another obvious solution is to swap with an owner who has worn out a different setting.

Hobie would replace the drums if stripped. Likely the adjustment pin has stuck not fully inserted, the drum has warped or the pedal shaft has flexed away from the drum under load. Common with heavy Turbo fin use primarily.

There is a change to the drums this year and you can upgrade. Much stiffer drums with a better capture of the pedal shaft to prohibit the type of damage experienced here.

Shown in the kayak forum FAQ

http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=9610

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)