Need suggestions on purchasing an older Sea Ray

[Woodpecker]

I have located a 1980 30' Sedan Bridge. The engines each have 1100 hours on them. The boat is in the water and still being used by an elderly couple. What should I be most concerned about in considering a purchase of this boat?

 

[sprink56]

This would be a start: http://www.davidpascoe.com/:thumbsup:

 

[tobnpr]

All the usual issues about older boats aside, if the engines are original, and 30 years old- figure on replacing them.

Fuel tanks, if original, likely need to go as well. Pretty much anything on a 30 year old boat, if original, is in need of replacement.

As with any boat purchase, survey (including the engines, if you're going to try to keep them) is mandatory.

 

[Woodpecker]

Thanks for the reply. I used to own a Sedan Bridge of this vintage and it was laid out the best of any boat I have owned. I am perhaps too optomistic that I won't have to spend a boat load (pun intended) of money immediately after I acquire her.

 

[Woodpecker]

Probably should read a book, but by the time I read it, the boat will probably no longer be available.

 

[K-9]

:grin:aHoy, take her out for a three hour cruise:smt038
Check bilge for leaks, smells ,condition, check log and see the recipt for service,history was she babied or negelted:smt101

The Hulls from 1980 are built so tough 30 years later we are still going bigger faster stronger...

went out today on a1981 fiberform and the boat is a rock!:thumbsup: no flex no shaking rides like a surf board. solid!:smt024

Let us know what you buy and good luck.

 

[tobnpr]

There's two "schools" of work on a older boat. Those things that "have" to be done, and those things you "want" to do- cosmetics.

A surveyor will help determine the "have-to's"- engines and fuel tanks as I mentioned, condition of the running gear, stuffing boxes, thru-hulls, electrical system, etc. All of those things that need to work reliably to get you where you want to go, and then back to your dock.

You say it's used by an elderly couple. Does the guy maintain the boat and use it? Or, is it a dock queen?

 

[Woodpecker]

tobnpr and K-9

Thank you for your responses. I am told that the owner has saved all receipts for maintenance but does not have a log. We'll see. I was also told that they want to get out of boating because all of their cruising friends are having health issues and have stopped boating.

Sea Ray tells me that the hull should pose no problem, but to check the stringers for any chance that moisture got in them, especially where they meet the transom.

Thanks for the suggestion about the thru-hull seals as well as going out for a several hour cruise. I would certainly have the boat surveyed, but it is also to have suggestions from fellow boaters.

Thanks again -

Woodpecker