Official 280 Sundancer Thread

I could use the mic holder, I live in the DC area as well, thanks! Kevin

 

I leave my AC on all summer long on shore power. I turn it down Sunday night when we leave so it's not cranking bu still on like 75. My boat inspector suggested this. Keeps humidity and moisture down.

 

Good deal! I just ordered mine. Need to know how to get it to display twin engines on my tablet now. https://www.mercurymarine.com/en/us...2952&l=111_HTML&u=7472465&mid=7232290&jb=1437

 

Hi Kevin,
I thought I replied to you but I don’t see it on the thread. Unfortunately the mic holder was broke when I bought the boat.

 

No worries, thank you for your response.

 

I get water under carpet beneath captains chair. Discovered it was coming from gap at bottom of front center windshield. Water comes in there, runs along channel along window, comes down by throttle and collects on floor. That could be it. I just starting jamming a rag into that gap when I leave boat. I've seen others talk about adding silicone to close gap.

 

Anyone make their 280 Sundancer "fishable"(salmon trolling on Lake MI) ? I've seen a few with a flush mounted rod holder on the port side, just behind the arch, before the battery/ignition switch box. I doubt another could be added aft of that?
I like the layout of the 280 (fold up transom seat) vs the 290AJ (removable/heavy) etc...
Looking to move up with more seating from my 270AJ

KRS

 

Installing flush mount rod holders is a dime a dozen - been done many times. Do you need anything special for salmon? I don't know as I've never fished for salmon and don't know if you're talking about some type of elaborate setup? But if you're just talking about a regular flush-mount rod holder - go for it. Check your clearance (physically look) to be sure and don't get the "cheapie" rod holders - get ones that are more solidly built.

 

I'd also run the hose from the bottom of the rod holders to the bilge. That way the rainwater isn't spilling all over the ER.

 

I have seen some that mount to the outside of the arch. Each side has 3-rod holders on them. They look really good.

Bennett

 

I'd like to see a pic of that!
I've seen a few with the flush mounted rod holders, but never 2 on the port side..I will have to double check the clearance aft of the battery switch box. Starboard side has room.

Lazy Daze -- yes, good quality rod holders are a MUST!
Captain TJ -- great advice!

Thanks All!

 

If you mount them on the arch, use them JUST for holding, though - not for trolling.

Rain water - they also make flush rod holders with caps/lids. But, sure, a drain tube is not a bad idea - make sure you buy ones that have it already installed or buy the "cap that can be slipped over the bottom. If you really want to get fancy, tie the drain tube into your cockpit drain system.

 

I've searched throughout this thread an other in regard to the engine cooling system on Merc 5.0 engines on my search for a 280 DA Sundancer years 2004 to 2008 without success.

So my specific question is in regard to: Did this engine come with a closed water cooling system or was it a special factory order?

 

If you've done the searches, then you have likely came across boats for sale and pictures of their engines - which would clearly show raw water cooled engines. The only "somewhat recent" Merc gas engine to come standard from the factory with CC is the 496. Other than that, it would be up to the boat manufacturer to order a CC model or it would be installed after the fact.

 

Then - in your experience - is it rare to find a 5.0 Merc engine with a closed cooling system? I'm just curious what I'm in for in my search for this... option.

 

Mounted in the boat/model you're referencing? Yes, definitely on the rare side.

 

When I was looking and bought a 2006 280 with 5.0's Closed cooled it wasn't that hard to find them. It was a factory setup

 

Marinemax has them, around $370 each.... I need two as well.

 

Found one from Silver Spring Marine in Maryland.

 

Anyone have suggestions on a modified epoxy to use on the hull of a 2002 Sea Ray 280?
Need's stripping too, going to try Aqua Strip... anyone used it before?