On Mar 11, 5:01 pm, wrote:
We have decided that our small bowrider does not suit us well on Grand
Lake in Oklahoma, so we have decided that a 26-28' cruiser will work
fien for our lifestyle. I have narrowed it down to used units from
either Sea Ray or Rinker both boats we are looking at have the 7.4 w/
B3-the Sea Ray is a 1998 with 800 + hours and the Rinker is a 1999
with about 400 hours. Now I realize that care and maintenance are a
very big factor on top of the hours, so what I am looking for is some
thoughts on these 2 vessels and any experiences you may have had-good
or bad.

Thanks,

Dennis


Assuming both boats cost the same, some things to consider:

The Rinker is 1 year younger with 400 less hours on the engine. The
Sea Ray is 400 hours closer to a rebuilt.....ka-ching!

Make sure the owner has maintenance receipts (and perhaps a
maintenance and repair log) that confirms the hour meter reading.
If not I might tend to dismiss the hour meter reading...........it too
easy to disconnect it.

Sea Ray has better name recognition than Rinker thanks mainly to great
marketing. On the other hand the Rinker may actually have higher
quality hardware and workmanship. Compare the quality of things like
deck rails (welded or t-fittings, diameter) and cabin cabinetry and
hardware.

Do both boats offer similar helm electronics? How old is the
canvas?

Make an offer contingent on a structural and mechanical (including
engine compression) survey.