Hi all newbie here looking at 1997 sundancer 270 in ohio

downtown23

New Member
Aug 4, 2011
4
Lake Erie
Boat Info
boatless
Engines
boatless
Looking for what to check for on these boats. Also lookiing for recomendations for surveyors in Cincinnati and Avon Ohio. Have two different sundancers to check out. Also would it be better to buy from a dealer or private party. Thanks all in advance for any replies.
 
I have a 96 270 - they are great boats! They are very solid boats and don't have too many problem areas. What engines and options are you looking at? Several owners on the site who will be able to help you with any questions you may have. Here is a 270 specific thread to get you started: http://clubsearay.com/showthread.php/936-Mid-90-s-270-Sundancer-Thread?

Are you planning to tow the boat? They are heavy and should be towed with at least 3/4 ton truck - plan on it being at least 10,000 lbs on the trailer and more with twins. Buying from a dealer can usually help with financing but either way plan on a full survey unless you feel comfortable with your own evaluation.

I had problems with water intrusion on the swim platform - I cleaned out all of the remaining wood and mush in there and used fiberglass to build it back and coated with non-skid. The shower sump is under the cabin steps and can leak if not maintained - if the box overflows or leaks then water fills up the compartment and then soaks the cabin carpet pretty quickly. I replaced the pump and switch and keep a close eye and have had no issues since. After that it has been just basic maintenance except I did repower - long story short - I got a great deal on the boat knowing it would eventually need to happen. I completed it all in April and have gotten back to loving the boat! Good luck in your search.
 
I've got a 98 270 Sundancer with 7.4/Bravo III. It's a great boat you'll love it. I find it a little ass heavy but I'm used to more small nimble boats. It gets on plane quickly for a boat it's weight and size and can cruise all day with that 7.4 not straining at all. I'm also very impressed by the way it cuts through rough water, like butter. Get a Marine Survey to check the 3 biggies engine compression, out-drive corrosion and moist wood (stringers/transom/top deck). This advice goes for any boat of course. If you plan to spend weekends on it get a boat with A/C, you'll regret not having it for sure. I would not be too concerned about heat, if you need heat on rare occasions a small inexpensive Sunbeam ceramic heater running while you're plugged into the dock will do the job. You will want a full camper canvas, not so much while running but at the dock the mosquitoes/flies will eat you alive, (if Erie is anything like the Jersey Shore). Don't underestimate the cost of a full camper canvas around $5000.
If you are new to boating use this website's search engine to learn all about exhaust manifolds, risers, Bravo 3 corrosion, Mercathodes and Zincs. If you ignore exhaust manifolds/risers they will most definitely cost you $10,000 engine re-power down the road and it's a short road.
 
Last edited:
I too have a '98 270 Sundancer with the 7.4 MPI & Bravo III and A/C, Gen, Windlass. It's a great boat. Very short on storage (Chronic Sea Ray Syndrome) and a few annoying hardware/cheapness issues (cabinet latches, hatch slide guides and track came loose). Steering is a little sluggish as compared to our 230 CC. Love that chain windlass! Would buy this boat again (sans bottom paint for Lake Powell) in a heartbeat. Paid $32,500 with trailer 3 years ago.

Good Luck!
 
It is a great boat and I agree with all above. I wanted a Bravo III but ended up with a B II and it has been great, so don't let that deter you. If you have the hardware the canvas can be gotten through Great Lakes for about $1500.

I would suggest you post your need for a surveyor in another post in the general section, you will get great response that way. You don't need to double post in different sections, but that question needs to be asked in its own header to get best response.

Good luck, MM
 
Welcome aboard
 
Hiya - New to this online community

Greetings Every body,Recently discovered this discussion board. There does exist such a lot of info on this informative website, I am a bit of overwhelmed. My own aim or what I'm trying to find using this message board is to understand in addition to find new friends. I am curious about where should i start on that discussion board. I am sorry for my horrible English.
 

Forum statistics

Threads
113,241
Messages
1,429,113
Members
61,122
Latest member
DddAae
Back
Top