Should I buy a 290 SDX?

[Steve in Minneapolis]

Hello! I'm new to the forum, but not new to boating. My first was a F224 Four Winns, which I had 10 years. Now, I have a Monterey 278SS, which we've had for two years. We got an opportunity to buy an 18 290 SDX for a seemingly fair price, and I think I can sell the Monty relatively quickly, given the current short supply of boats.

What's attractive is the nice built in coolers, larger head, wider beam, and of course, the two-foot-itis. So, I'm looking for feedback from current owners. What should I look out for? It's got about 100 hours, and still under warranty, so I'm not too worried mechanically. What else should I know?

I would be interested in a grill, if it could be retrofit. I don't think so, since it doesnt have shore power or an inverter. The bimini seems like it's a little small, and I think it is the larger option, if there is such a thing. The flip-up bolster feels a little soft and the hinges bind a little when lifting them. Is this normal? We took her for a short cruise, and I heard some thumping under the floor on heavy choppy waves. I think it was something in the ski locker, but forgot to take a look. Should I worry, or is it a solid setup? it also has the starboard under-seat cooler with the electric chiller thing. Does this work well? Lastly, it has some damage on the edge of the flip-down swim seat. He said it's because it touches the outdrive if it's all the way up and the wheel is centered. Anyone else experience this?

These are the things I noted. Anything I'm missing?
Thanks, guys and gals, and I love this forum! Monterey has nothing like this...

 

[paulswagelock]

It is a solid and popular boat. Which motor, 6.2 or 8.2?
Sounds like you need another sea trial to figure out the noise from the locker, that is not normal.
Grill could be added but it would cost a small fortune since you are missing the infrastructure. The flip up bolsters are not the most robust but I have not heard of a broken one yet.
I have not heard of the outdrive hitting the flip down step, but I guess why would you trim to trailer while in the water with people using the seat- accident waiting to happen there.

 

[Steve in Minneapolis]

It has the 6.2 350HP engine. For our lake, where the speed limit is 40, it should be enough engine. We aren't trying to make it a wake boat, either. Agree it's enough engine?

I thought the same about the grill. It needs an inverter, and I would think it also needs more batteries... which lead to even more struggles. I'll probably go with a gas grill, like the setup I have currently.

The only reason I ever raise the trim all the way to trailer height is when we pull up to the sand bar. If we have smaller kids, then we like to get into fairly shallow water (common practice here), and raise the trim so we don't drag the bottom. But, I agree with you, that seems preventable, as long as you are paying attention. I was thinking I may put a protective piece of rubber, or something like Keel Guard to protect it... if there is enough clearance for something like that. Just in case.

 

[paulswagelock]

The 350 hp in the 270 sdx is a 46+mph well powered rig. In the 290 it will be adequate, but load up the 17 people you can seat and it would struggle. Probably a 40mph boat, with enough grunt for the occasional tube etc. with 6-8 passengers.

 

[Steve in Minneapolis]

Makes sense. We have a 27 now with the same engine, and it is well powered. I can see your point about lots of people, plus the extra weight of the larger boat. Thanks!

 

[Steve in Minneapolis]

Any other feedback on this model? If you own one, has it been reliable, and are you happy with it? What's your favorite features?

 

[Steve in Minneapolis]

Or, maybe a better question is what you don't like about it or would somehow improve?