For some reason I'm blocked from replying to you now. Yes sir Rich, I've called the number on the hydrilla gear website and left a message with the lady that answers the phone, a voice mail, and a message via the "contact us" tab on the website. This was before the website was updated though, if that has anything to do with it. Recently, I even started a thread on this forum(power poles/talons) looking for a hydrilla gear rep. You replied to other threads all around mine as well, so I didn't know what was up or how else to reach out. ANYWAY, not hear to bash or anything, so please don't take it like that. I was just looking to see if I had a set of brackets that were not coated properly or something, with the oxidation and pits. You pretty much answered my question with your reply above. I do not use any highly acidic cleaners, but I do spend most of my time in brackish water, with some time in purely fresh and some time in purely salt. I hand wash my boat with McGuire's car wash soap after every use in brackish or salt water, so I would not have thought water conditions could've taken a toll on them like that. I do occasionally spend the night at the camp and the boat stays on the water for 2 to 3 days without a wash. I'd hate to have to pay to powder coat $600 brackets, but I guess it is what it is. Thanks for the reply.