1978 300 ec

[boatnski2009]

Hey all, New here. I put a deposit down on a 1978 300 Express Cruiser today. It seems clean enough. Wondering what kind of specific things I should look for during my inspection and Sea Trial that will help me make sure I'm not wasting my money?

Curious too as to the reliability of these things if anyone has any experience.

It's a freshwater boat all its life. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks!

Oh, curious as to how much fuel these things burn too?
It has the twin 330 hp Merc Inboards

 

[zaquaholic]

Do you have any pics?

 

[GoofyLeo3]

Fuel burn? About 1mpg.

 

[charlesg740]

I'm guessing Goofyleo3 is correct. I have a '78 Weekender, which would be lighter than yours, with a pair of 250hp Chryslers and I figure about 1.25 mpg at cruisings speed.

 

[zaquaholic]

Good looking boat! I even like the color!

 

[dpmulvey]

Are you having it professionally surveyed?

 

[DKRanger22]

I agree. If you are a newcomer to these older boats, and don't know what to look for, a professional survey is the only way to go. Even though these older Classics were built like tanks, there are often things that are not vissible to the "untrained eye" that are critical (moisture readings, electrical gremlins, seized up seacocks, etc.) Best to have a survery, or at the very least, a marine mechanic that you know and/or trust look over the boat extensively.

Keep us posted on how it goes!

 

[Mooner]

Hey there!
Have you splashed your boat yet this season? We're planning to do just that this weekend. Hope to get up your way this year for sure! Keep in touch.
Mooner

 

[DKRanger22]

Hey Mooner!!! Hope all is well with you.

Let me know if you are out this way. That cold beer is still waiting for you!!!

The boat is in the water. I was down there until 12:00 tonight waxing and polishing. She is sure looking good.

Hope to meet you this summer. Keep in touch!!!!

--Andrew (aka - Matanji, as she is known on the Chagrin River).