"New" 96 Sundancer 270DA - Suggestions Needed

[MC1600]

Hey all!

Well, this is now my second post, and this forum is proving most useful.

My wife and I are just about a week away from the survey and sea trail of our "new" 1996 Sundancer 270DA (twin engine model). I'm just looking for anything we should pay particular attention to during the survey and trial.

Just don't want to get caught blindsided afterwards when I come here with a problem in 3 months and one of you tell me "oh, that's a common problem you should have checked before buying". :thumbsup:

Thanks much!!

 

[estebanj]

Well, this is now a 10+ year old boat. I would get the maintenance log for the engines and check what things have been done and/or replaced (risers, manifolds, etc.).

I would do a thorough inspection of the outdrives.

RWC or FWC engines?

Gen? A/C? Water heater? I would also check these throroughly.

What electronics does it have? Any that need to be updated?

What condition is the bimini and other canvas/isinglass?

Salt or fresh water used? Stored wet or dry?

Other things to check are the condition of the head system (vacuflush, electric, manual) and holding tank. When were the maintenance components last replaced?

Hope this helps.

Esteban

 

[Quint4]

make sure you are present for the survey...you will learn a lot about that boat with a competent surveyor.

 

[Diver Dude]

Your "new" '96 boat can be quite "new," depending upon use and maintenance. Your survey should answer that. My '96 was, in fact, basically new when I got her 3 years ago. With a modicum of modesty (and my maintenance logs), I would suggest she would still show as "new."

 

[MC1600]

Thanks so much! I will make sure surveyor goes over all that real well!

 

[MC1600]

Oh, absolutely! I just remember how much I learned when I was around for our first home inspection. And besides, I figure for as much as I'm shelling out for the survey itself, I might as well get the biggest bang for my buck, right?

 

[MC1600]

That's good to hear about your "new" 96 too! From the looks of her, she's in great shape, and the engines only have a little over 400 hours on them, so for now, I'm taking that as a good sign. We'll know more in a couple weeks!

Thanks again, guys!