'08 35 Lightning to buy or not to buy.
11-30-2017 | 07:49 AM
#14
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Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 448
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From: Falmouth, Va/ PGI, Fl
Have you ever been in a stagger boat? They can be tricky to get on plane, but ease of maintenance is a plus. Dont buy solely on price, just because it seems like a good deal does not mean it is. A properly set up 496 boat will run in the 80s, while a 525 boat can run over a hundred.
11-30-2017 | 08:52 AM
#15
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Joined: May 2013
Posts: 1,754
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From: Long Island, NY
Agree with VoodooRob, the price on the 08 with 496's is no bargain. Furthermore, if the 500's are being offered, there is no question, I would take those over the 496's. NOONE cares if the boat has the ORIGINAL engines, people will care that they are stock Mercury power and if so, that's the way to go.
Having said all that, Unlimited JD's boat with 525's is far and away a better option; assuming the boat, motors and drives are all good (I don't know the boat or him so I can't say).
Having said all that, Unlimited JD's boat with 525's is far and away a better option; assuming the boat, motors and drives are all good (I don't know the boat or him so I can't say).
11-30-2017 | 05:59 PM
#17
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 5,325
Likes: 112
From: Northern NY
If you are apprehensive about a staggered boat and would entertain a side by side 525 EFI boat I could offer you one of the best of the best. Boat is in excellent condition, 100% stock and unf'd with, brand new drives with less than a couple hours and full Merc warranty. Not trying to cut in to this thread, but if you have an interest, it is your choice. No spooky handling with the side by side 35 Lightning, runs out straight as an arrow.
11-30-2017 | 06:07 PM
#18
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,310
Likes: 1,817
From: Merritt Island, FL
The year makes it one of the last built. That helps the value, the 496s hold its value down. If you are comfortable with it, then have it surveyed check transom for rot around exhaust cutouts. Surveyor will use a moisture meter, if not find another surveyor. I dont know the info on 28 Maximus/XR 1,50 combo on the 496, I do know that you wouldnt be able to use the 32s with that 1.50 combo. And 82 in a Fountain is good, its what you'll be happy with that counts.
600 hours on the 500’s seem a bit high. As for the other 525 Boat for 120k that is a good price on 35’s. Those things hold their value.
12-01-2017 | 09:14 PM
#19
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Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 36
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From: North Conway, NH
VooDoo Rob, quick question, I have a 29 single 500 and was looking into a new, more modern 33 lightning. I like the trailerability of it as I commute an hour to the lake also the more modern layout. Curious why you don't like it?
thanks
thanks
