Considering a 1999 440 Express Bridge

[Devin Harris]

I'm considering purchasing a 440 EB, but I have heard a number of people raise concerns about the balsa core hull on this specific model. Just curious if anyone has any inputs - should I simply steer away from the 440 EB? Survey on the vessel did not detect any elevated moisture levels, but my understanding is this will be an ongoing concern.

 

[Shoyrtt]

I'm considering purchasing a 440 EB, but I have heard a number of people raise concerns about the balsa core hull on this specific model. Just curious if anyone has any inputs - should I simply steer away from the 440 EB? Survey on the vessel did not detect any elevated moisture levels, but my understanding is this will be an ongoing concern.

I thought the end of the production run on the 440 EB was in 1998 at the time Sea Ray came out with the 450 EB. The same issues about the balsa coring were an issue in the early 450s due primarily to poor sealing of the engine vents. I own a 1999 450 EB, boat number 6 in the production year built in July of 1998. I had the same concerns you are having, but my survey came out good and I pulled both of my engine vents and resealed them just in case. So far no problems.

 

[Devin Harris]

Thanks for the input, Jim. And you're correct - it is in fact a 1998.

 

[cdog]

We own a 1994, I have not had any issues. When I pulled the bilge vents the opening was sealed with epoxy. I resealed with epoxy and then with 4200 JIK. Great boat with an immense amount of room. We love ours.