2017 VLX Catalytic converter to be replaced - Indmar 350 engine

[Jaydayze]

Hi everyone,

I have a 2017 VLX21 with only 400 hours on it. I have an maintenance required check on the cockpit.

The dealer inspected my boat and mentions the catalytic converter needs to be replaced. its a 2K CAD part.

I have an indmar 350 engine.

I think it is quite unusual that such a part needs to be replaced after 400 hours only.

Did someone ever encountered this problem ?

Also, what is the latest software update for the 2017 VLX21 ? the version I have installed is MY2017-v01-2019 V2.

Thanks ! 

Edited August 2, 2021 by Jaydayze

[csleaver]

You have the most current software available for 2017 Malibu Wakesetter boats.

Since Indmar is the only inboard marine engine builder I have seen that does not use thermostatically controlled exhaust cooling to help control condensation build up, I am surprised your catalyst lasted as long as it did.  Excess fuel or moisture kills catalyst substrates in the exhaust pretty quickly and engine overheats, misfires, and brackish or salt water use are really hard on them as well.  There are a lot of factors that can effect the lifespan of exhaust catalyst.

This is just my opinion from making a living doing repairs on several different brands and types of inboard engines for a couple decades.  I am not a mechanical engineer, so please take this with a grain of salt and don't take it as an attack on Indmar or people who own their product.  They do some things well also, in my opinion.

[Saltydog]

I just replaced both manifolds/cats on a 2012 247 with 540 hours. It’s a common problem, especially if they have been overheated at any point. If your handy with a wrench the parts are much cheaper online. I found my set for about half of what the dealer wanted. 

[Hemmy]

4 hours ago, Jaydayze said:

Hi everyone,

I have a 2017 VLX21 with only 400 hours on it. I have an maintenance required check on the cockpit.

The dealer inspected my boat and mentions the catalytic converter needs to be replaced. its a 2K CAD part.

I have an indmar 350 engine.

I think it is quite unusual that such a part needs to be replaced after 400 hours only.

Did someone ever encountered this problem ?

Also, what is the latest software update for the 2017 VLX21 ? the version I have installed is MY2017-v01-2019 V2.

Thanks ! 

This was actually a very common problem in this engine in 2017. If you do a search you will find several threads on this. There were issues with these catalytic converters. I think I had to replace mine at less than 150 hours.
Most people had it covered under warranty.

Edited August 3, 2021 by Hemmy

[tsanfilippo]

I have a 2018 Malibu MLX. The Starboard Catalytic converter went out (115 hours), it's under warranty, but I have a 5 day trip planned in just a few days and with no boat we would have to cancel. I am from Denver, but I couldn't get it repaired in Denver in a timely manner, so I called up to the next closest Malibu Dealer "Driven Powersports" and these guys got me taken care of fast! Did a great job, saved our family trip!  Brought it home last night and took it out to the lake and Now it works great! - Thanks to Indmar as well for the coordination of everything and for getting the part there in time to make this all work out! Great customer service all the way around!

I wish Indmar was still making the motors for Malibu!

Edited August 6, 2021 by tsanfilippo

[GCTROY]

I have exactly the same make and model 2017 VLX. I have had to replace my cat and exhaust 3 times and the boat has only done 560hrs. I have only run the boat for 70hrs since they were last changed and am being told they need replacing again. 
 

does anyone have any advice ? 

Thanks 

[csleaver]

It is very important that all of the exhaust components and hoses are aligned, spaced, and clamped correctly to avoid water inversion which could damage the catalyst.