Fair Price?

Yes, my family and I are new to boating and this will be our first boat. The dealer (MarineMax) has scheduled a test drive for us this coming Sunday so I will get to see how she handles/runs. I already had the dealer do a background check on the boat and it turns out it was purchased from them brand new back in 2001 and only had one owner. All of the service records are on file and there has never been any problems with the boat. However, if anyone can let me know what to look for when I see the boat this weekend, I'd really appreciate it. I printed out a "used boat checklist" from the internet already, but I'm sure you all know much more.


Here's a quick picture I snapped on my phone the other day:


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When MM took my 260 on trade - they let the engine warm up and then ran it on plane - then - they ran it wide open for 5 minutes and watched the temperature and oil pressure to make sure it was holding. Then when they got back to the dock - they checked the oil levels once everything cooled off. I personally would want the drive serviced and pulled. I would want to know the gear lube is in good shape and that the coupler is in good shape.
 
I have had very good experiences with the MM that your dealing with. A few things to look for... 1. If the exhaust is original, it need to be changes and this will cost you $3k if you wait until after you sign the deal... 2. All the rubber needs to be changed... On my '01 sundeck, I have it all changed last year... I paid $2K for that service, as I had the engine pulled to replace the oil pan, oil quick change fitting... 3. You trim sender switch may not be working, mine is not on my sundeck... It stopped working last year... Even if it is working, I would recommend changing the trim senders when the rubber on the outdrive is changed... Remember, if they give you a warranty, it does not cover rust, and normal maintenance, like exhausts... 4. Tell them to change the water impeller in the outdrive if it has not been changed in the last two years. 5. You will probably need new batteries, check the dates batteries. If they are beyond the battery warranty, ask them for new batteries. 5. If the canvas has not been replaced, it needs to be replaces... It is $K for new canvas. I would not ask them to change it, but I would include that cost in my negotiation. 6. The carpet are probably shot... That is another $400 for new carpets...

Lastly, MM is great to deal with, however, they will try to get as much money out of you as they can, just like any other boat or car dealer... It pays to be an educated buyer... If you have a buddy that is a boater, bring him or her with you....
 
Rod is right on.

This boat is old enough to almost need the *second* periodic replacement of risers/elblows. Certainly, if these are original it is time to replace. I bought a boat with 9 year old risers. . .they were "ok". . but they got replaced and I was glad I did it at the time. The dealer will charge $2K-$3K for this item and I would be SHOCKED if it is covered by warrenty.

Rubber is another wear component. . .that may be due at this time.

Bottom paint, water impellers, oil, plugs are all normal wear items.
 
Thanks for the helpful tips everyone! I went to see the boat this weekend with my family and everything looked great. I ran a "Boat History Report" on it and everything came up clean and I've also received all of the service records from MarineMax stating everything that has ever been done to the boat. The exhaust was just replaced last May, the rubber is all brand new, there's fresh bottom paint, a new bow and cockpit cover, brand new carpets (as mentioned earlier) new batteries, and even a new windshield wiper! The dealer is also throwing in front and rear tables, an igloo cooler, and ordered a brand new porta-potti for us. (I can only imagine what the old one looked like) However, while looking through all of the service records I noticed that the boat was diagnosed with a "failed control box" and the previous owner declined the job due to the cost. Is this something to worry about? Should I have them replace it before I sign anything? Any more helpful information would be greatly appreciated!
 
I don't know what a "control box" is... I would ask them what it is, what it does, and should it be replaced.... They are usually honest and MM, and the sale aways goes better if you there is a honest relationship between buyer and seller... As a new boat buyer, they want you back when it is time to upgrade... I think, from what you have written you have the perfect boat... Buy it and join us a Appaloosa on July 11th at Tices Shoal...
 
Just thought I'd keep you all updated, everything worked out with the boat and MarineMax said they would fix anything and everything that was wrong (or raised a red flag) with the boat at no charge. I'm picking her up next Friday and couldn't be happier! Thanks again to everyone that helped me with the buying process, the questions you all brought up were very important and I would have never known to ask them without your help! I'll be sure to post pictures as soon as I get her, and you can rest assure that I will be posting a lot more questions about boats on here! :grin:



_Rob
 
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