Ok so I am looking at buying my first performance boat but have boated my whole life. I found what I think to be a good deal on a 1995 26' Velocity full hydro steering, a 502, original owner and 303 hours on her. I am going for a test ride next week.

I was curious if you guys could give me some tips on what to look for as far as what goes wrong with these boats. I'm pretty knowledgeable with boats and cars in general but anything to help me make a better decision.

Thanks in advance
Vince

Transom moisture.

I had to have my transom dried out and resealed a couple of years ago. Many others have had the same.

Other than that, great boat. If the deal falls through on you, my 95 26' is for sale with a new 650hp 540ci custom engine. Only 15 hours on the engine and around 230hrs on the hull.

how would I be able to idenitfy if the transom need to be dried out ? Or if it has had work done to it ? Is the glass work typically noticeable in the engine bay?

You would use a moisture meter.

Mine was detected during the survey, prior to purchasing. We just worked it into our negotiations and i had it repaired. I guess it would depend on how severe the problem was as to were to look. Mine was not that severe, didn't require a full transom replacement, and is better than new now. (better because i know it won't leak anymore).

On mine you can see a slight difference in gel color just under the outdrive. Other than that, you would never know.

If you look closely in this picture you can see the area that was worked on.

Thanks for the heads up. Is it worth investing in one ? Should I assume all Velocitys have some moisture issues ? Sorry for the array of questions but want to spend wisley. Thanks

I wouldn't bother investing in one, and i'm sure its not ALL velocities. It is a prevalent problem though.

Before you buy the boat, HAVE A SURVEY DONE.

No matter what boat you buy, HAVE A SURVEY DONE.

I can't stress that enough.

oo

Camaro69 Shore thing is right. A survey will give you a good idea of what if any repairs need addressing. I purchased a thouruoghbred (26' Velocity). After haggling with the owner for 9 months I made an offer based on one test drive. The jackass I bought the boat from blew on of the motors in the interum. He did not have the deciency to make me aware of it. I knew the engines needed freshing up but this idiot continued to run the boat with questionable compression. So fine a surveyor in your area. A couple of 100 now will save you 1000s' later. By the way I love my boat. Good luck!

I've owned 3 Velocities and none have had any transom moisture issues. Most of the issues I've heard of were from the mid-90's models. As has been recommended, if you plan to buy a boat, especially one that's 12 years old regardless of manufacturer, get it surveyed first.

Do a test ride a long one, I bought a boat once, ran fine hooked to the water hose so I bought it and took it home. When I got to the water she again ran fine for a short time then died. Spent $1800.00 on a new computer plus down time. A little home work will go a long way. Take your time!