Advice on buying older Maxum 2300 SC

[Maxumilian]

Hello everyone. New to boating and this forum. We're looking to purchase our first boat and I've become somewhat fixed on the 2300 SC. We found a couple nearby, a 1997 that is for sale by the original owner that has been well maintained according to the marina that has serviced it most of it's life. Then there's the 1996 that is in decent shape but had it's engine rebuilt in 2020.

Sea trials will be done in the spring and considering they both perform well, which engine would you choose and why? Both are 5.7 Mercs with Alpha One drives btw.

There's probably no clear cut answer for this but I looking forward to reading your responses.



Thanks!

[biggerseagar]

Welcome aboard !

Get a survey done. Structural and mechanical for that old of a boat. And take it from there.

Then you and family take a safe boating class.

Good luck

Roger

[mmwjr]

Get the one that is in the best shape and has most of the features you like. How many hours/years since the one was rebuilt?

[Maxumilian]

Thanks!

[Maxumilian]

Neither have an hour meter so I can't confirm hours. The one with the older engine is packed away in dry storage so I cannot see it until spring. It has a full cover and has always been stored inside during the winter. Owner says trailer needs new tires soon but that's about it. The one with rebuild is stored outside with convertible top and camper enclosure exposed to weather. This owner says marina recommended replacing bellows as routine maintenance but they are not leaking now. Both sellers are asking 5K with trailer btw.

I appreciate the responses. Thanks.

[biggerseagar]

Right now my vote is with the indoor stored boat, but still get both surveys.

Good luck

Roger

[Maxumilian]

Thanks Roger.

[Chamilun]

I bought one with a "rebuilt" motor and it blew up after 5 times out.

Check for any water in oil or oil level that is too high. Check the transom etc of course

A survey is a good idea of course but almost no one ever does them.

To me the main issue with any boat is the engine. Others will disagree but thats $$$ to fix