Buying a 280DA

[VolNavy37922]

I've placed some posts on the 280DA thread - but thought I'd bring it up on a general discussion.

I'm looking at a 2004 280DA with about 100hours. The boat was used 60 hours in saltwater - but was rinsed and dry stored (so they say). The current owner operated in fresh water for another 50hrs- but is selling it after 1 year (little worried here). I looked at the boat before it was detailed and it was very clean and appeared well cared for. The outdirves looked clean (but not too clean). But I have several concerns. 1) What all issues should I look for on a boat with such low usage. 2) How can I tell if there is salt damage to the engine. 3) Serveyor or Mechanic - who would best be able to tell me if this boat is sound.

Thanks for your help

 

[mwph]

I'll stay away from the technical side of things but as for the low hours, let me bring this point up... I'd like to know the history of the boat. The actual date & location it was purchased & first put into the water.

Its possible that the boat has been sitting on the hard & for sale, for longer than an individual has owned it.

 

[At Ease]

Have the props been pulled so that you can check for corrosion around the carrier bearing? The B3's as you know have had corrosion issues in this area.

 

[VolNavy37922]

The boat was first bought and put in the water in south Florida. It was a vacation home and the owner only used it while he was there (hence the 60hors of saltwater use). He placed it in a warehouse during non use. The current owner bought it last year and put 50 hours on it. He is now selling to buy a larger boat. This boat has Alpha drives not BarvoIII's.

All - thanks for any more help

 

[JC3]

I would not worry about hours if you know history. As an example I have a 2005 GB 2685 that only has 84hrs because we bought our 450DA and didnot hardly ever use it after that. It is like brand new. Just check history, good survey, hull and engines and you may have a great boat on your hands. Good Luck, JC