advise on 2000 380, too many hours on engines?

And I've learned the same for 330DAs. I guess, this has to do mostly with the engine/exhaust setup, which was used on various models.

My boat originally came with 7.4 Horizons, but the engines were changed (PO) under warranty by Mercruiser for water intrusion in 2003 to 8.1s. My understanding was that it was at about 150 hours.

As mentioned previously, put a computer on the engines and see how many hours these new engines have on them. The scan will tell you how many hours you have accumulated at each rpm band. If they check out good now, I wouldn't be afraid of them.

Don

Someone mentioned doing 2 oil changes in quick succession if you do move forward with the purchase which I think is a good idea too. Flush it out.

As for hours, that does not seem like a lot for a 2000. I think I would go for a well cared for and moderately used boat over the low hour boat that sat around now. When we were looking I let the hours be a beacon for what boats I looked at. Now after having my 340 for 2 years, I realize how easy it is to run up the hours using the boat regularly. And how many things need seasonal attention even if I dont want to do it!

There are so many parts to these engines to service I think I would be as concerned about the impellers, and hoses. And dont forget the generator. Risers too if it has been a salt water boat at any point.

A good survey of the hull and mechanical aspects of the boat should be a done no matter what year. I think it would be wise even with great records. I know I have seen even differing opinions about what is to be serviced and what can wait just inbetween mechanics!

HAs anyone seen moisture in stringers and transom on the 380's in this model 1999 on up. Is it normal to have a little moisture in the stringers. A surveyor told me that he just surveyed a 2001 380 that had moisture in the stringers, but no delamination. Any thoughts?

Moisture in the stringers is not normal - not common on Sea Ray's. Usually an issue as a boat ages. The 380 was a great boat from Sea Ray.

Never heard of moisture in stringers in this era Sea Ray either.