Wife and I are looking at a 1998 353 w/496's. What should we look at/for prior to purchasing so we dont have to dump allot of $$ afterward?
any and all info appreciated.

Someone correct me, but what year did they introduce the 496's? Seems to me it was in 2000-01. So if that's the case, there has been an engine swap in that '98.

I'd check out the hours on the drives, all of the electrical functions, and control-indicator cables.

Depending on the shape of the boat, you are right there where things need to be replaced. Again, this depends on the last owner(s) and how they cared for it. 400-500 well cared for TOTAL hours, you may need to replace things. Also consider if it was a fresh water boat or not. That can have a huge impact on wear and tear. Feel free to contact me to discuss further. I've had my 353 for several years and have had most of it apart to upgrade.



Dave

excuse me-502mag-under 300hrs

Fresh or salt water?

Spend the money for a good survey.

That too!!

It's OK to look it over yourself and knit-pick the boat, but as J.B. says get the survey done....Buyer Beware!

Dave

You might as well get the survey done, as any lien holder will require it. Anymore, most insurance companies will also require a certified marine survey. I bought a 1998 353 last summer and my survey cost around $550, and it was great piece of mind after purchase. It also gives you good bargaining power if there are things wrong with the boat.

First 496s appeared in 2001 in the 353. A friend of mine got the first HO. He ordered it with 502s but Formula switched over and gave him the HO for the same price.