what to do...

[geoffm70]

Got a 1994 3200 SCR with carbed 5.7 mercs on Bravo2s. Spent the past couple years and almost Cad 20,000 restoring her. One engine is under 200hrs, the other around 700 (and has a minor oil leak which I am trying to source, looks like where the hoses connect from the filter to the back of the block).

for sale on the next dock over, is a 2004 3500 SY, also with 5.7s, each with 900hrs. Love the cabin layout on this 3500 (aft cabin and galley).

What to do! They're asking Cad 89k and figure my restored 94 might get Cad 60k. The 3500 needs new canvas windows and the whole boat needs a cut polish. No idea her mechanical condition, will get a survey, but 900hrs is long no? Also, I know my "Therapy" from bow to stern, that's got to be worth $$, even if she is a pig on gas, a pig so will be this 3500SY!

I'm torn because I love my 3200, but the 3500 is a better layout and when I'm done doing to her what I did to the 3200, I'd have a more valuable boat/asset. But am I opening Pandora's box?

[mmwjr]

Any new boat is a risk but I have seen gas engines go 2000 hours but also 450 hours. Maintance, how the boat is used, were used, and the rest is a crap shoot. Only you can answer the question if it’s worth it to you and you won’t know unless you do it however if you don’t you’ll always question yourself. Regret on either side. But ask yourself this are you willing to repower either boat and go from there.

[geoffm70]

Oh as I read your reply, I could feel the regret that no doubt will come. At this point, I think I drop 1500 on a survey and pray the boat is whacked. Repower what I have might only be one 5.7, both legs were rebuilt last year with stainless.

[mmwjr]

Originally Posted by geoffm70

Oh as I read your reply, I could feel the regret that no doubt will come. At this point, I think I drop 1500 on a survey and pray the boat is whacked. Repower what I have might only be one 5.7, both legs were rebuilt last year with stainless.

Let us know what you decide.

[shrew]

The boat is approaching 20 yrs old with 900 hrs on gas engines.

Expect to have to replace the following:

Canvas
Electronics
All sanitation lines

Very Likely in the near future:

Repower engines
rebuild windlass
various electric pumps