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2002 25 Outlaw
Hello all, looking at joining the Baja club. This will be my first boat. I'm looking at a 2002 25 OL SST w/ 496 Mag (non HO) w/ 150 hours on hull and motor (fresh water boat). I'm waiting on the marine inspection to get done in late February as it is 12 hours from me, and I'd rather get that done than drive all the way there for me to find something wrong. Once that comes through with the all good, I'm meeting the guy at a local lake for him to do a quick run about. My question is: what are common issues w/ this model/year boat? What things specifically should I look for?
Things wrong w/ the boat: Skeg has some damage, says no vibration or any play. Also, hatch on engine hood does not raise/lower w/ power. I've got some money off the sale price for those two issue. Any information, tips, etc...? Thanks all, i'm very excited about this I hope it works out. Should get the boat early March if all checks out! |
Welcome to OSO! Great choice for a first boat.
Just a few things your surveyor should check, all pretty obvious but I've read about surveyors who don't always deliver..... Transom and stringers for moisture, especially around exhaust thru hull tail pipes. Engine hatch not operating? I presume they'll get it open manually for inspection. Have the engine scanned to verify the hours. Mercury service dealers plug in a computer scanner, very simple. 150 hours sounds extremely low for an 18 year old boat but not impossible. Engine hour scan will verify 100%. I suggest at least a compression test or better, a full leak down test will tell you something about the engine condition. Usual things like drive unit for play side/side and up/down, gimbal bearing, bellows and general appearance for signs of wear or misuse. Does the seller have many service records, proof of maintenance? Surveyors are generally very good at picking cosmetic issues because it's easy but sometimes distracts you from the more important structural and mechanical items. Have documentation and ownership confirmed before handing over lots of money, just common sense stuff. Good to make a check list, it's easy to forget simple things when you're eager and excited about a new boat. I've forgotten plenty over the years! Good luck, post questions on here, there's a lot of knowledgeable guys on OSO who are all keen to help others. :) RR |
Great boats, I've had a 98 & 04 before buying our 30 Outlaw. Like mentioned before, check stringers and transom moisture. Good Luck!!
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Thanks for the info. How can I verify if the surveyor is reliable? I called all around the area where the boat is and he was the only one who wouldn't charge the S##T out of me. Anyone know anything about this surveyor? Here's his site link: www. talleysurveying .com
He mentioned he will be checking all the stuff you mentioned and it is a 4 hour survey. He says he does not check the motor out, but my plan is if the survey checks out good then I'm going down to meet him on a lake and check out the motor myself w/ a friend. I also verified the registration is through the owner via Texas Conservation and Wildlife Boat registration. So far it all checks out. I'm somewhat worried about the amount of hours on it myself for being an 02. Kind of a curse and a blessing. |
Where is the boat physically located? If it is the Dallas, TX area BUP here on OSO is a VERY through surveyor, also if in Houston area he knows a guy named Brad (Lake Conroe) that is a Chapman trained surveyor with 30+ years in the marine industry, or pm me for Brads contact info
Good luck |
Welcome to the club. I second the statement above BUP is a guy you want in your corner. Also if you have any questions feel free to ask or look thru my thread: https://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/...25-outlaw.html. Also Phil'R Up has a FB page:https://www.facebook.com/IAOUTLAW/?ref=bookmarks
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He is unable to do the survey due to non-compete with his employer, he is going to get me a name/number to call this evening of a quality surveyor who can do both a physical and mechanical if you desire.
I will PM you with the info when I get it later this evening. |
Originally Posted by iaoutlaw
(Post 4724886)
Welcome to the club. I second the statement above BUP is a guy you want in your corner. Also if you have any questions feel free to ask or look thru my thread
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That would be extremely helpful for the physical and mechanical, ya send that over when you can!
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Received the results from the survey. I'd really like some feedback to see if I should continue to pursue.
Flaws noted: - Companion doorway dragging (adjust tracks and clean) Any other issues with these that would cause this other than lack of main't? - Moisture inside the interior appointments... not sure what all this entails. Owner said it was stored under a car port. What could cause this? It was covered. - Snap out carpet, and cockpit cover had animal hair and strong odor. Animal urine was noted (gross, but I believe cleanable) - Engine cover upholstery had a 4" tear on the stitching. - Trailer: new tires suggested, front roller damaged, tongue jack wheel is bent. Front roller replacement seems cheap and easy from a quick search. - 4' keel scuff from front roller on trailer. Assuming a good buff job will do the trick. - Engine cover lifts inoperable, survey says they were disconnected. Owner mentioned they do not work. What is the common issue with these? How much effort time to fix? - Prop chipped and bent, skeg damage. All comments welcome, and thank you. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...b6589a2a23.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...10e0c90359.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...f93d2b1505.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...5fc35144a1.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...ea6cb4e184.jpg |
Looks like it’s been stored for some time. Maybe because it filled up with water? I’d ask the seller why in the world it’s so dirty back there. Looks like newer speakers in it so was probably used in the past few years?
The engine hatch fuses could be blown? Maybe because wiring was submerged in water? Fuses are below the steering wheel on drivers helm. Moisture inside interior appointments is kind of vague. Unless he’s referring to under the bench seats? Which if the bilge filled with that much water there was probably water in the cabin as well. Not saying that’s what happened just trying to give some ideas. IMO I’d be extremely leery with this boat. Looks rough. Yes it could probably be cleaned up if it’s sound structurally but that’d have to be well worth it in the price, for me at least. Other thing I never liked with the smaller bajas was how the attached the trim tabs with basically wood screws at the bottom of the transom, just asking for rot. Not trying to be a downer just don’t like to hear about people buying about and getting stuck with a turd. That’s how boating in general gets a bad wrap. The 25 Outlaw is a great start to power boating and there’s enough of them out there that you can be somewhat picky. |
I'll have to ask seller what happened with the situation in the bilge. I feel comfortable about fixing the majority of issues. To me it just needs some good TLC which I am more than capable to do. Like you said, I just want something that is structurally sound, and reliable. Which makes me worry about why so much water would be there.
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If you’re capable and not afraid of tearing into it I say go for it, again if there’s no rot and it’s priced accordingly.
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Anyone know where I can find a replacement hatch hinge? If that’s what it’s called? It’s the arm that locks open the cabin hatches.
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Engine mounts are rusted badly. I wonder if it took on water?
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the boat could be a water damage boat. The old statement in the industry is ridden hard put away wet. The put away wet part sure looks like it.
Have to ask where is the engine part of the survey and other depth for anything mechanical and testing results especially scan results ? Anyone can point out skeg damage - interior tears and so forth. You need a lot more depth than what was done and written. Just pointing out as this could be possible a money pit boat. Who did the survey and is there anymore to it than what you posted ? |
looked at pics again that engine compartment was half under water. I bet the drain plug was left in and fill up with water or it was a half sunken boat or the transom leaks like a sieve. That is water damage in that engine compartment 1000 percent. That is very obvious - did any of that come up in the survey ?? Did anyone pull the outdrive yet ? My guess a complete rust bucket all that end
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the spin on fuel filter has been on there forever - When boat owners can not spend 12 bucks to yearly change fuel filters - that will be the least of your problems. Trust me this boat is a total lack of maintenance from the owner on top of the water damage in the engine compartment.
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Yes, the boat shows some very bad signs. I have passed on the boat. The marine surveyor could have done a better job, yet he still recommends the boat. What he provided me is something I could have easily done myself yet I’m 12 hours away.
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Originally Posted by bdavidt
(Post 4728732)
Yes, the boat shows some very bad signs. I have passed on the boat. The marine surveyor could have done a better job, yet he still recommends the boat. What he provided me is something I could have easily done myself yet I’m 12 hours away.
Unfortunately I have had this experience with surveyors also. Some are good and worth the piece of mind , but to me I know enough about boats I can do it myself. Never again. FWIW I know you passed on the boat but my 252 Baja Islander had a very dirty bilge when I bought it also. Mold , water lines, rust you name it. Boat definitely had water sitting in it at some point. Was cheap enough so I took a gamble. I spent alot of time cleaning it and it did come back. I have not had any stringer or transom issues yet for two seasons and I drive it hard so I think I'm ok. Good luck with your search , 25 Outlaw is an awesome boat and what I would own if I didnt have 3 kids. |
Went and looked at this one last Friday, made an offer yesterday that was accepted for $22k pending a sea trial next week. Much better shape than the last one w/ 296 scanned hours.
The bad: - needs GPS antenna for spedometer - does not come w/ cover (part of deal) didn't fit for travel it was for a 26' and I will need a cover for travel. XT Innovation quoted me $925 for snap in cockpit cover... is this accurate? - sun pad seams coming undone and some small rips in rear bench. - cuddy hatch arm gone (anyone know where I can find a replacement?) - needs new rocker switches mostly to for labeling. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...6d86bb9f54.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...9e8aa0f000.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...83336d7a70.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...dbf681b864.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...75536aa7fd.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...5e6aa6aaab.jpg |
Congrats. Nothing wrong with something that needs “some” tlc. That last one just looked too rough to me. Not sure on where to find parts. Hopefully someone will chime in on that. Maybe greatlakesskipper.com
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This is what I put in mine. Way better than carpet. Its plastic so doesn't hold water so it won't start to stink after awhile and its easy to wash out. I think he still has 1 left that he would sell you for less than what XT wants for carpet. He used my boat as a template.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?f...type=3&theater |
Originally Posted by iaoutlaw
(Post 4728831)
This is what I put in mine. Way better than carpet. Its plastic so doesn't hold water so it won't start to stink after awhile and its easy to wash out. I think he still has 1 left that he would sell you for less than what XT wants for carpet. He used my boat as a template.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?f...type=3&theater |
Sorry mis-read your post. If you want to change out your carpet at some point now you know lol.
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Can't seem to catch a break with searching for a boat... Took the 2nd boat out for a water test, about 30 minutes of cruising everything worked perfect, except for a noticeable noise coming from engine only in gear. We take the boat out of water, but still on boat ramp (good angle to drain) pull drain plug and about 2 gallons of water came out. I re-launch it to see if I can notice any leaks in the bilge, cruise around and have engine hatch part open and look everywhere with no signs of any leaks, especially w/ how much water came out I should be able to see/hear if its a hose or something. Maybe the bellows?
Also, a separate issue (I believe they are not connected) but there seem to be a leak in the cuddy. It started near the front, then once launched and start moving it spread to where the picture shows. I was told it could possibly be the speedometer tube is loose and leaking. which the speedometer does not work, so maybe that is it. I have not put any money down, or nothing this was just the last test before purchase. Any thoughts? Gonna get back w/ the guy and have him figure out the issue get it fixed and see what happens. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...067c463e5a.jpg |
Originally Posted by bdavidt
(Post 4729645)
Can't seem to catch a break with searching for a boat... Took the 2nd boat out for a water test, about 30 minutes of cruising everything worked perfect, except for a noticeable noise coming from engine only in gear. We take the boat out of water, but still on boat ramp (good angle to drain) pull drain plug and about 2 gallons of water came out. I re-launch it to see if I can notice any leaks in the bilge, cruise around and have engine hatch part open and look everywhere with no signs of any leaks, especially w/ how much water came out I should be able to see/hear if its a hose or something. Maybe the bellows?
Also, a separate issue (I believe they are not connected) but there seem to be a leak in the cuddy. It started near the front, then once launched and start moving it spread to where the picture shows. I was told it could possibly be the speedometer tube is loose and leaking. which the speedometer does not work, so maybe that is it. I have not put any money down, or nothing this was just the last test before purchase. Any thoughts? Gonna get back w/ the guy and have him figure out the issue get it fixed and see what happens. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...067c463e5a.jpg |
That water could very well be coming from the pitot speedometer! It’s going to go there first then make its way to the bilge.
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Couldn't find the leak in the 2001 OL, so I told the guy if he got it fixed I'll purchase for asking price... Went and looked at a 1998 25 OL yesterday w/ a 454 Mag Mpi in it. Couple small things I noticed...
- Seems to give when stepping on center cockpit panel by rear bench. Said he had to pull gas tank... will be getting more information on this. - He reupholstered the sunpad and rear bench. Rear bench seat is unsnapped not sure if broken. - Rear bench seat hinge brackets undone. - Spider cracking (picture) Some other notes: he is currently servicing and painting the out drive, installing stereo, and fixing rear bench seat. Furthermore, he is the owner of a marina and boat service center. Comes w/ year outdrive warranty, boat slip w/ lift. Pretty enticing deal. Have yet to take it out on water... I'm waiting for him to finish fixing all the issues mentioned above then go for a water trial. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...da1c7229f6.png https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...28b9233cfe.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...453d8f04ea.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...18b5943b5e.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...95563b2b0d.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...11a87c5a65.jpg |
Originally Posted by Head Rusch 2
(Post 4729665)
Looks to me it was full of water up there while being stored underneath that floor and as you drove it forced it into engine compartment.
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https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...3984fbbc2.jpeg
Finally got one. 2000 sst 25 ol. 502 mag. |
Originally Posted by bdavidt
(Post 4742082)
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...3984fbbc2.jpeg
Finally got one. 2000 sst 25 ol. 502 mag. |
Originally Posted by Eddienel
(Post 4742087)
Details Man! How many hours. Approximately how much and seriously just one picture?!?!lol Congratulations! Sorry man I’m just busting your balls!
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2001 25' Baja Outlaw
I've had my 2001 25' Baja Outlaw for about 10 years. I paid $40K. I only used it twice because I needed help using a trailer to get it into Lake Conroe. It ran fast/beautifully. I built a dock at my father-in-law's house with a boat lift, etc., expressly for this boat in about Jan. 2021 so I could use it without help with the trailer. After the Feb. 2021 freeze, I brought it in for a tune-up. The mechanic told me this week that it needs a new engine for $20K (that doesn't include labor) because the parts are rusty and it sat too long. I'm on hold now trying to figure out what to do. $20K for an engine that ran perfectly about 5 years ago but did sit for that period afterwards, seems high to me. Here are my questions 1) Can an engine completely fail by sitting too long? 2) Is $20K for a new engine reasonable? 3) What do you all suggest?
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What shop/mechanic?
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Was it winterized properly before it sat?
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let's say a full rebuilt is 7 k. plus 2-3k labor and misc parts.
my guess is everything above 10k is possible, but needs more explanations... does it need starter and alternator and new block and or heads? pulleys? so on ... if so that can add up fast. do you have more details? |
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