I have an opportunity to buy a 1994 Mirage 257 w/ a 502 for 15K. I really like the boat, but this will be my first purchase and I know NOTHING about owning a boat.

I would keep in moored somewhere as it is a bit long to be hauling around town with my F150 SuperCrew.

Any info would be GREATLY appreciated.

have it surveyed both hull and mechanically

That sounds like a great idea. I'm assuming that is like a home-inspection but for a boat. Any idea how much that costs? I know it's cheaper than getting home with the boat only to find out it's a lemon but figured I'd ask.

I tow my 26 footer behind an F150 SuperCrew with no problem. Can't stand the thought of leaving my boat on a mooring. Couldn't sleep at night...

Best of luck to you bigroj. I think that it isn't a very big deal to pull around a 25' boat, just get aquainted with some of the great pamphlets put out by various boating organizations (BOAT/US, Trailerboating Magazine, your local/state marine board and Department of Motor Vehicles, etc.). Let members of this site know where you're from and I'm sure more than a few would be willing to help you look this boat over, also look for a marine surveyor in your area. Keep in mind I'm more of the "love to tow it" persuasion as I like to keep my boat in my warehouse where I can keep an eye on it and work on it. Your tow rig is probably a bit light (F-250 would be better), but you'll be surprised what some folks are pulling their 40'ers around with. - Jeff

Some of the marinas in my area will let you leave your boat in their storage buildings in the summer months if you get a ramp pass or rent a slip.

All good advise, GET a survey of the boat maybe $500 that could save you big. Get some boat mags and read, ask the previous owner to take you out for the afternoon to show you how to run it, dock it, put on trailer.And just ask questions.

Use this site and you will learn plenty

Good luck

mark

THIS IS A MUST for that age boat....good luck....try these for a credited surveyor.

http://www.marinesurvey.org/

http://www.nams-cms.org/

The price sounds good. Towing should be easy. Good luck

Thanks everyone, I appreciate your help.

Although this will be my first boat purchase, I am no newby around boats. I have operated, docked, trailered (solo) many different boats. It's just that it's about time I owned my own!

The owner has given me the green-light to take the boat for an afternoon to have both on the water and with a mechanic/surveyor.

Say, what does anyone know about the 502efi engine? The owner has indicated that it was a 12K upgrade when new; is that accurate? Is there anything I need to know about this motor?

Thanks again.