GALVESTON - The Mosaic Co. alleges that Design Power International and HK Engine Components bear responsibility for the constant mechanical failure of one of its vessels, recent court documents say.
According to a lawsuit filed Nov. 16 in Galveston County District Court, the recurrent breakdown of the tug Betty S's port and starboard main engines is caused by the poor condition of several power pack assemblies manufactured and installed by the defendants during an overhaul procedure in Hitchcock two years ago.
The complainant paid DPI, which in turn purchased the parts in question from HKEC, for the work in February 2008. The overhaul began two months later with the renewal of all bearings, power packs and associated running gear.
The Mosaic Co. recalls a number of instances between May 2008 and January 2009 in which the Betty S experienced engine-related malfunctions while at sea, claiming subsequent repairs led to other problems.
An investigation of the most recent incident revealed that the improper assembly of the power packs was to blame, the original complaint says.
It further explains that the defective power packs were eventually replaced, and the plaintiff demanded reimbursement totaling approximately $600,000 to no avail.
The Bale Law Firm PLLC is representing The Mosaic Co., and Galveston County 56th District Court Judge Lonnie Cox is presiding over the case.
Case No. 10-cv-4167
Ship's engine problems subject of lawsuit
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