Looking at an older 30' baja, Help Please!
 

Hello all baja owners,

I am looking to pickup my first baja. It is a 1989 30' pictured below. It has a new paint job on it. What I am looking for is if someone can post some pics of what this year boat looks like when the cockpit is complete and what does the sleeping area look like. Currently this boat is gutted and I am just trying to get an idea of what it looks like completed. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Also any idea what model of baja it is?

Thanks

Looks like an old 280 Sport. They list them at 30 foot.

http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/1/5/89320115.htm

Get ahold of Teambaja if he is still on OSO. He can definately give you more details. Or just do a search on them.

Thanks, Thats what I needed, I found tons of pictures!

Thanks again!

What is your overall opinion of these boats?

I have alot of pics of mine. If you need anything specific let me know. I can take a pic any time.

Any idea how much it weighs?

Mine was 8800 with 1/2 tank of gas on trailer.

8800 with fuel and a trailer so maybe 7500 dry with no trailer?

Dont have any experience with the 280. But my 240 is a good boat. 5000lbs dry. So 8800 Sounds right for the weight. Should be a good wave crusher. Check the wood though. Baja didnt use marine grade wood in the construction. I already replaced the wood in the engine hatch and have some more work to do.

I know the stringers have been replaced, Should I be worried? I have been starting to hear that the 80's style boats were not that well built and the glass is thin and susceptable to stress cracks.

Anyone know if there is any truth to there poor build quality back in the 80's?

Havent heard those rumors. In fact, most people have told me that the old 80's boats were solid. Thats why they weigh so much. Only stress cracks I have are at the one cleat. Best thing to do is have a professional survey done if you are serious about the boat.

I Feel comfortable about buying the boat just wanted to know what true BAJA fans/owners think or have experienced. Maybe I will post the question at the baja owner forum level.

Guyz I have a 302 boss 1999 for sale if anyone knows anyone looking and has very low hours with a 2006 heritage tri-axle to go under it. :hitfan:

when my friend had the baja dealership in the 80s and 90s the 280sport he had ran 74mph, so its about 71gps thats with 365hp mags 454s.my 24 is 4000lbs and the 280 was like 6800lbs nice fast boat. inside I think there was 2 benches and a table then v berth bed. art

I agree with Art. The 280 I know of had 365hp 454 mags in it & it ran in the low 70's.
To the prospective owner, get the boat surveyed. It is $$ well spent, not to mention peace of mind. If the boat has issues, you will know it before you own it, rather than after.
You are right on target for weight. My 29 outlaw is supposed to be 6800 lbs dry. I figure it weighs in at 7500 dressed for the lake. Put it on the trailer & it is over 10k.