Newbie Boat Purchase Help

Sea Ray Charlie

New Member
Dec 13, 2017
24
Boat Info
2003 460 Sundancer
Engines
480CE
Hi,

I am new to boat ownership and am considering buying a used boat for my family. I'm currently in the North-east and am wondering if anyone can recommend a good boat buyer's agent or surveyor or offer some advice on what I should be looking for other than a basic survey and sea trial.

I currently have my heart set on a 2004 Sundancer 420 with the Cummins 6CTA Diesels located in the Boston area, but am unsure if the engines are coming due for overhaul since they are at about 1500 hours.

Any help/guidance would be greatly appreciated.
 
If you are looking for the best independent Cummin's mechanic in Eastern Mass call Rick Montgomery at 781-588-4166. Very experienced and knowledgable.
 
Welcome to CSR!

You will find very generous people with vast amounts of knowledge willing to help you.

Can you be a little more specific on what type of boat you are looking to buy? What do you plan to do with it? Such as Skiing, Tubing, Fishing, Overnight, local trips, long distance trips, etc. How big is your family and do you plan on having guests?
 
Thanks everyone for the warm welcome and the lead on the mechanic!

We are currently a family of 5 with kids ranging from 4 to 8 who plan on using the boat for day and overnight trips. I would likely keep the boat along the Hudson River and would like to use it like a summer home for my family. I have been researching the Sundancers and would love to get into the 420 to 460 models. Looks like my budget will allow for early 2000 years.

Anyone have any thoughts on which models or engines or gens to stay away from in these years?
 
If this is your first boat.... I would recommend an extended aftermarket warrantee... Maintenance costs for used boat can be extremely high, especially if you are not or can do your own maintenance. Also, If you can buy through a local marina (that you trust) make friends with the mechanics... Boats are great, and maintenance is a key part of your fun...
 

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