Dawson Boat recalls
Dawson Boat boats have 1 recall campaign on record across 17 reported units. Below is every campaign, what it covers, and how to confirm a specific hull was fixed before you buy.
Dawson Boat Co has one recorded USCG safety recall from May 1982, affecting 17 units of the 15S model for level flotation defects. The single campaign is over four decades old, and affected boats are now vintage craft. For a used buyer today, the primary concern is verifying whether a 1982 era 15S received the flotation remedy and whether the foam or air bladder system still meets current buoyancy standards.
All Dawson Boat recalls
- ⚠ Recall
820031S5/22/1982LEVEL FLOTATION
What this means before you buy →
What to check before you buy a used Dawson Boat
- Decode the HIN to confirm the model year and check whether the boat falls within the 17 units recalled under campaign 820031S
- Request documentation from the seller showing the flotation remedy was completed, or inspect the hull for evidence of foam replacement or bladder installation
- Have a marine surveyor perform a flotation test or visual inspection of the foam chambers to confirm the boat still meets level flotation requirements
- If the remedy status is unknown or the flotation appears degraded, factor the cost of a complete foam replacement into your offer
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls has Dawson Boat Co had?
Dawson Boat Co has one USCG safety recall on record, issued in May 1982 for level flotation defects on the 15S model. A total of 17 units were affected.
What was the flotation recall about?
The 1982 recall addressed level flotation deficiencies, meaning the boat may not have had adequate foam or air bladder volume to keep it afloat in a swamped condition. Remedies typically involved installing additional flotation material in the hull.
Does the 1982 recall affect Dawson Boat Co boats built after that year?
No, the recall was specific to 15S models manufactured around 1982. Boats built in later years are not included in this campaign.
Should I avoid buying a used Dawson Boat Co because of the recall?
A single flotation recall from over 40 years ago is not a red flag for the brand. If you are considering a 1982 era 15S, verify the remedy was completed and that the flotation system is still intact, as foam can degrade over time.