The Condemned Gyro Problem

When a dealer or authorized service center tells you your gyro stabilizer is "condemned" or "beyond repair," their next suggestion is almost always the same: trade it in for a new unit. But here is what they do not tell you: many "condemned" gyros can be repaired or restored to full function at a fraction of replacement cost.

The conflict of interest is structural. Dealers make money selling new units, not fixing old ones. Their assessment tools and training are designed to classify units as failed — because that drives new sales. An independent second opinion breaks that cycle.

Manufacturer Disclaimer

Starboard Yacht Group LLC is an independent marine stabilizer service provider. We are not affiliated with, authorized by, or certified by Seakeeper, Inc., Seakeeper Ride, Humphree AB, or any other manufacturer. Our assessments are unbiased and vessel-owner-focused.

What We Evaluate

Bearing condition — Actual measurement of runout, vibration signature, and thermal profile vs. condemning based on age alone
Vacuum integrity — Leak-down testing and seal condition assessment
Drive system — Motor, controller, and sensor diagnostics with full parameter logging
Electronics — PCB inspection, capacitor health, and firmware analysis
Structural mounting — Bed condition, bolt torque, and alignment verification
Corrosion status — Saltwater intrusion assessment and remediation feasibility
Operational history — Runtime hours, duty cycle, maintenance records, and failure mode context

Real Outcomes

We have assessed units that were classified as "total loss" by dealers and found them to be repairable with $3,000–$8,000 in parts and labor — versus $45,000–$120,000 for a new unit plus installation. In other cases, we have confirmed that replacement truly is the right path, and helped owners negotiate better trade-in values with documented evidence.

Either way, you make an informed decision with full information — not a sales pitch.

The Assessment Process

On-Site Inspection

We come to your vessel and perform a comprehensive physical inspection of the gyro unit, mounting structure, and surrounding systems. No shipping, no guessing.

Diagnostic Testing

Full electronic and mechanical diagnostic suite. We measure, log, and analyze performance data that dealers often skip.

Written Report

Detailed findings with photos, data, and clear repair-versus-replace recommendation. This document is yours to use for insurance, resale, or dealer negotiation.

Repair Estimate

If repairable, we provide a fixed-price quote with parts list, labor hours, and timeline. If replacement is truly needed, we help you understand why.

Who Needs a Second Opinion?

You were told your gyro is "condemned" but no detailed evidence was provided
The recommended replacement seems disproportionate to the symptoms you observed
You want to keep the vessel but cannot justify the cost of a new unit
You are considering selling the vessel and need an independent condition assessment
Your insurance company requires a second opinion before approving a claim
You simply want to understand all options before making a major capital decision

Independent Failed Gyro Assessment & Second Opinion