1998 Classic - what to look for

DannyG · #1 06-29-2009, 09:52 AM

I am considering the purchase of a 1998 classic. Are there any particular issues with this boat, areas of concern, things to look out for?

Thanks,
Dan

DannyG · #2 06-30-2009, 05:53 PM

No responses? Is this year boat too late for this forum?

Snookerd · #3 06-30-2009, 06:02 PM

Hey DannyG-

Do a search for forum threads that discuss newer SeaCrafts. Even though the late 90's-present Tracker SeaCrafts are not the era of boat covered by CSC, some newer boat owners have made posts. People may chime in if they have info for your situation.............

hermco · #4 06-30-2009, 06:07 PM

I would get a competent surveyor to check it as I had one of same year here with the stringers busting loose and transom problems.

SteveH · #5 06-30-2009, 06:44 PM

I think it was the 25 footer that had those issues. I have not heard of those issues associated with the 23 footer. For the past five years, I have owned a 2000 23 footer, and it has been a very solid boat. Consider a survey though as suggested and definitely take it for a sea trial. get the engine compression tested as well along with possible general diagnostic test by licensed dealer. I paid for one by merc dealer before I bought in 2005. good luck

hermco · #6 06-30-2009, 06:54 PM

I've seen and worked on a couple of Seacrafts over the years and this was a 1998 23' Seacraft with the stringers breaking loose and transom coming apart.

Rainmaker · #7 06-30-2009, 10:02 PM

Don is certainly full of good information and has repaired/restored more than his share of Sea Crafts. I would trust his thoughts....

With that, I run a 1998 23' CC and have for the past 4 years. I love the boat. I have a bracket on it and push it with a 2006 etec 225. When it is time to repower, it will be a 300hp though. I can't say I have had any issues with the boat at all. I run it around 500 hours a year with several trips to the Bahamas and trust this boat to get me back every time. I have been in 20-30 knot blows in this boat and actually went out one day with a 20 knot North wind and some very sloppy conditions. Had a tough time moving around that day, but managed to catch more than my share of tilefish in 10'+ seas. Again, never a concern for our safety, just not very comfortable.

With anything, I can guess some folks have had trouble and some don't. I would take the advice above and have the boat and motor checked out by an expert before dropping a pile of cash on it.

fdheld34 · #8 07-02-2009, 02:35 PM

Quote:

I've seen and worked on a couple of Seacrafts over the years

Only a couple????
So modest

-FRED

thedog · #9 07-03-2009, 02:52 PM

I own a 98 23ft, I have a pair of 150 etecs on it. boat is solid
no structural problems, cracks ect below deck, some minor gel coat cracks
on the gunnels. I think your main concern is the previous owner. I had to do a lot of work rewiring all the electronics and redoing all of the hoses and pumps
all because of lack of maintenance by the previous owner.(owner's)
some of the work that people do to their boats is truly unbelievable
some boatyards are not much better.