94 Sailfish issues?

[ruggit]

Considering the purchase of a 1994 25 foot Sailfish. Boat is powered with 94 Merc 200's. What are some of the obvious issues common to this boat?

Thanks for any replies.

 

[no problem]

Here's a few things to check. If maintenance has been kept up these things may already be repaired.

1. The removable fiberglass deck plates over the fuel tanks are usually soft and in need of re-coring.
2. The plastic thru hulls were junk in 94. All need to be replaced.
3. The bulkhead at your feet when standing at the helm is usually rotten at the bottom from port to starboard. It may still look ok but push on it with your finger at the bottom where the caulk is. There's often no wood left, Just the laminate.
4. Hoses on pumps and thru hulls may be cracked and deteriorated.

These are some of the normal things, usually not deal breakers. Just things to keep in mind when negotiating. good luck!

 

[ruggit]

Thanks for the reply. Boat may be already sold pending financing.

Will see what develops over the next couple of days.

 

[94Sailfish]

May be moot if already sold as you suggested but be sure so look for transom separation. I just replaced mine. Not saying this was necessarily a defect...probably just old age in my case. Cost about 3,500 and thankfully, my insurance covered it. I also know of another forum user who replaced the transom on his 94. Just look closely at the stern where the rub rail ends and is capped with the chrome piece. Mine had separated almost an inch at that location (starboard side).

Purchased mine summer '08 and here are some other items I encountered:
* Sticking macerator pump - "fixed" mine by lifting the pump enough to be able to spin the blade by hand. Afterwards, it should spin normally with the button. Unless you spin it often, or use some sort of lubricant in the holding tank, it will stick again.
* Replaced head plumbing.
* Captain's chair and co-chair rocked (reminded me of an uneven table at a restaurant - hate that!). Inexpensive fix by replacing seat bushings.
* Leaky windows. I've tried silicone caulk with some success. The real fix is replacing the gaskets. Haven't done that yet.
* Original owner kept boat in direct sunlight, uncovered, thus causing severe oxidation (chalky finish). Currently wet-sanding/buffing/waxing to restore original lustre...absolutely beautiful shine.

That's all I can think of off hand. Best wishes! (BTW, love this boat!)

 

[ruggit]

Thanks for the reply 94. Didn't hear from the seller yesterday, so his buyer must have come up with the money.