Sea Ray 340 Sundancer

[dpoelstra]

I am looking at an '86 340 Sundancer. Broker says it has a fuel pump problem on one engine (454s). I have yet to hear it run, and am traveling so I won't be able to for for a few weeks.

What else should I look for on this vessel? I am an expereinced boater, but have been out of the game for over 15 years.

Are these electric or mechanical fuel pumps? Workable? I am a decent mechanic.

Dan

 

[Quint4]

Most likely a mechanical fuel pump. The pump is on the front of the engine on the lower right. It shares the pulley with the water pump. I changed mine last year and it was not to0 bad if you have decent access. I would question how he is sure it is the fuel pump.
There is a clear sight tube from the pump to the carb for overflow fuel in case the fuel pump diaphragm ruptures (perhaps it has fuel in it ?)

Here is my "used boat checklist" to help you remember what to look for (most of it will apply to this boat):

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 4600-4800 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.

 

[Happy Hour IV]

Quint has a great list but he may have missed your boat model. Some things will not apply like outdrives and trailer.

But more importantly

1. Water reversion. Have a leak down down test performed with the compression check. (possible rebuild)
2. Look at the plugs carefully for any sign water/rust (possible failing riser or reversion issue)
3. Riser/manifold joint. Look for any sign of weepage/rust (If extensive possible rebuild)
4. The last step going down into the cabin is removable. The water tank sender/inspection plate is there.
Open the plate and look inside the tank for lots of white mineral deposits. If you see any the tank needs replaced
5. Check transmission fluid for any sign of water
6. Get a fresh water closed cooling system

I have had my Sundancer 340 for 20 years, now in Newport Beach, Ca. Send me an email and I can tell you 20 years of
stories. With only two exceptions (both times the mechanic screwed up), I do all my own maintenance.

 

[dpoelstra]

Thanks for the feedback. I am pretty comfortable with checking out a boat, but am always interested in known issues to pay special attention to. Are there any known problems to look out for on this vintage Sea Ray?

Dan

 

[MJS]

Buying an '07 340, just waiting on survey and sea trial. Under warranty until middle of next summer. Should I extend it now?

 

[300SR]

I don't think that an 86 340 would have outdives. Maybe im wrong. V drives maybe???