Buying a 2004 Sx 230

[Thorsday]

Hi guys, I found this boat that I really like. About 20k canadian $. Boat seems to be in amazing shape, only at 160 hours on the original engines (why so low? Considering boat is 20 years old now). Serviced and inspected back in april with no problems. Is a boat like this worth it still? Also, I’m a little concerned with the hull as well per the pictures shown below, what do you guys think? Thank you!

 

[Acard7]

Any other history on it? Any add-ons to make it worth more?

Did they paint the bottom of the hull and it’s just coming off? Just hard for me to see I guess.. Are you going to water test it? Because I would. Idc if it was serviced and inspected, I’m taking it for a spin before purchasing making sure it runs well and reaches all RPMs without issues. Make sure you can get the clean out plugs in and out. Look in the engine bay for any leaks, check the oil before and after the water test. Pretty crazy it has extremely low hours.

 

[Thorsday]

Thank you for the tips, I’ll make sure to check everything you mentioned! These are the add-ons he mentioned -
Bimini top
-full snap on cover
-full storage cover
-trailer
-swim ladder
-built in depth finder
-brand new speakers and stereo system
-table
-bow filler cushion
-stern filler cushion
-ski/tube pull bar.

I’m really not sure about the hull honestly, I’ll attach a couple more pictures that he sent me. I’m a beginner when it comes to boats so I’m completely clueless honestly. Once again thank you!

 

[Scottintexas]

Near the front of the intake grate it looks like raw wood ???

 

[Scottintexas]

Definitely don’t buy it without a test ride
I’d also take it to a jet ski shop to have them look at the engines and maybe a fiberglass glass shop to confirm the integrity
$20k is to much to gamble

 

[Acard7]

-full snap on cover
-full storage cover
-brand new speakers and stereo system

Above are the only add ons that gain it value, as the other stuff should have come standard when first purchased.


This spot on the front is really odd to me, some of it may be from loading the boat but my gut tells me this has had possible structural damage. Definitely agree with Scott above that the intake grate structure doesn’t look right either, definitely looks like wood instead of gel coat.

Won’t hurt to go look and test drive it though, make sure it’s not taking on water during the water test, and push around the hull to make sure there’s no soft spots on highly suspect areas. If you have a shop close to inspect it after a test drive and before buying it would be worth the money spent for their time.

 

[usmcgoose]

The pictures, collectively, look as though the bottom was painted. Those rib spots look as though they are through the painted coating into, and through, the gel. Have you tapped around for irregularities or pushed in on areas looking for soft spots? You can never be too detailed. Take your time and be diligent. Look at upgrades done, cleanliness of the compartments (especially engine and fuel). Are wires run neatly, compartments clean, debris around the engine, surface corrosion on metal. Snag details lend to how much they care about the boat. It provides a little window into what to expect down the road.