are non powered seats in the Baja a big deal? Also, would 500 hrs be any problem on 496ho's? If boat looks good have to believe motors were properly maintained. The scan of motors would help with hours, will it tell anything else? How about drives at these hours? See one Baja with 500 and formula with 280. Price difference is 15000. Any thoughts?

In order, I think powered seats are important. 500 hrs not a prob for 496s run moderately with oil changes every 25-50 hrs. Be sure they used a quality multigrade oil and not 40 or 50W single grade. Scan will tell you number of hours and how much time spent at each rpm. Drives are dependent on several factors including props and how much wave jumping was done but again at least annual oil changes are mandatory for good service. Take off the props and check for twisted splines. Grab the drive in the down position and lift it and see how much play in the bearings there is. Prices are set to what owner thinks he can get and how fast he needs to sell. Go see the boats if they look good to you but absolutely, get a marine survey.

We love our 33ol.. lots of room, rides well and great lines. You’ll see us at tickfaw 200... usually at prop stop! Non-powered seats.. honestly I rarely put the bolster up, usually slouch down and relax 90% of the time.

Hoping to be in a sport boat this time around at tickfaw 200. Nice boat. Read about what you have done: good job.

How does someone go about buying boats when weather is cold and want to do test run? Do dealers or private owners have any problem about going out in the cold? Can you get a feel for the boat if freezing while doing it? Just bundle up I suspect.