Early 290, Should I buy ?

[TPONZ]

Hi, I am looking at buying a 1992 290 Sundancer with single 7.4 and Alpha 1 Stern leg.
Can anyone advise what faults these models might have and what I should look out for. Also is possible to attach canopy to radar arch, as on later models ?

 

[Dick270da]

I have a 1990 model and bought it instead of a newer model because of the cabin layout. Even though the beam is listed at 9' I still trailer it with no problems. With a/c and generator it weighs in at 8100 lbs. I like the two berths plus settee layout and there is enough room for two couples to overnight. I have the 454 Bravo I setup, they say the alpha drive can't handle the torque of the big block. It's recommended to take it easy on the throttle if you have the alpha drive. I've put about 20 hours on it now and get about 1mpg, 4200 rpms at 30 mph WOT. I changed all but the navigation lights to LED's, an upgrade I'd recommend. The old incandescent bulbs can draw a lot of juice. So far I'm pleased with the boat! Oh, I almost forgot, lift up the cushions in the midberth and check out the supports. Mine were rotten (the fresh water tank, pump, and shower sump are located there. There is also storage under the v-berth cushions.

 

[Phlorida]

I concur with the previous sentiment..... that big block is a lot of engine for an Alpha One. If that drive hasn't been babied I would be very concerned with how much life is left in it. You should plan on the cost of replacing it with a Bravo leg someday.

 

[Quint4]

That Alpha 1 did not come as standard on that boat. As stated, way too much boat and motor for that outdrive. Here is a check list for you:

1 - Drain the outdrive oil and check for water in the oil and excessive metal particulate (a pressure test is also in order)

2 – Props okay?

3 - Compression check the engine while warm. All cylinders should be above 100 and within 10% of each other

4 - Canvas in good shape? You will get serious sticker shock if it needs replaced (3 to 4K)

5 - Maintenance records available?

6 - Freshwater boat ? this would be a good thing.

7 - Have someone hold the steering wheel firmly, now try to move each outdrive side to side...does it move more than a half inch or so? gimble ring possible worn out.

8 - Refrigerator work? I put a new one in last year...$750...no kidding.

9 - Is it in the water? does the bilge have water in it? if it does, you may have a leak.

10 - Check that all gauges work. My fuel gauge did not work. I changed the sending unit in the top of the fuel tank. It was very tough to get at....very tough.

11 - When was the last time the exhaust was serviced, as in manifolds and riser inspected and gaskets changed? this is the biggest killer of marine engines and is often neglected

12 - Is the transom solid ? remove a few screws from the trim tabs.....wet wood revealed? (of course reseal with 3m 5200 when you put them back). take lots of time at the transom...any sign of moisture penetration near through hulls... inside or out?

13 - Sea trial the boat with five or six adults on board.....should reach 4400-4800 rpm at wide open throttle.

14 - When were u joints / gimble bearing / all bellows last serviced or replaced?
15 - When was impeller last changed? 

16 - Confirm A/C works...run it while checking generator (must be in water of course to run AC or generator)

17 - Trailer? what is your tow vehicle? you are looking at well over 12k lbs of boat and trailer....not your run of the mill bowrider....and a beam over 8' 6" means technically you need a permit to haul it.

18 - Check that both trim tabs work....you need them.

19 - Check that the outdrives trim up fully and back down.

20 - Toilet work?

21 - All freshwater spigots work? no leaks in freshwater system?....pump should turn off a few seconds after a faucet is shut off.

22- Look under EVERY cushion and hatch for standing water, if you find it investigate further.

23 - Anchor windlass?...does it work? they are not cheap to replace.

24 - Watch temp gauge during sea trial ....boat should not overheat at any time....also keep an eye on the oil pressure gauge, My 454 stays between 40 - 60 psi.



 

[CV-23]

It's probably a Bravo1....no 454's were mated with the Alpha1 after 1987 in general. I think the 1990-1993 270/290 is one of the best affordable boats out there. The 90's styling is still not to dated for me. I would only step up to a early 90's 30-33ft 350/270hp twin counter rotating Alpha 1 Sundancer at this point to get more room and performance, Mike.

 

[Bob & Sue]

Read Quint4 post carefully and follow it I did a similar list when purchasing last May plus I had a survey done, even with all that done it is a used boat there will be things that will need replacing or brake after it is purchased we have had several issues come up like new batteries, new faucet, belts it all adds up so budget for it. Boat is currently at the shop having a new coupler put in it from what we now think happened from sea weed being tangled in the prop while trolling for salmon.

 

[TPONZ]

Thank you all very much for your help, I will pay close attention to all comments made.
Steve