Looking at a stingray

[joe6]

Hello everyone, this is my first post on iboats. I am 23 and have owned one boat in the past. It was an 88 star craft with a 75hp mercury outboard on it. I sold the boat to my parents two years ago in hopes that I would be able to upgrade. Well, I'm finally ready to upgrade!! lol I found a 21 foot 1990 Stingray 656 zpx in my local classifieds for $3500 OBO. It has a 5.7l engine and seems to be in pretty good shape. I am going to look at it on saturday morning. Is there anything I should be aware of or look for when purchasing this boat? Do or did they have any problems or issues I should be aware of? Is $3500 to much for a 20 year old boat? Should I try to talk him down? Sorry for all the questions but I want a nice boat that is going to last me a couple years. Not just a throw away. Thanks for the help in advanced!!!!

 

[danheck7]

Re: Looking at a stingray

I purchased a 1993 596 zpx about 2 months ago. 5.7 with mercruiser outdrive. I have nothing to compare it to so this is my first reactions after 3 outings. Not as fast as i had thought it would be. What is? The motor is supposed to have less than 30 hrs on it and it seems to run well. top speed with one person and half tank of gas is about 50mph. when you go to a full tank and 2 people you are around 40mph. I like the boat but just learning what works for me. When I get a chance to take it offshore will be the true test. If the boat gets me out of the harbor and back in the harbor without issues I will be satisfied. Hull seems really comfy in choppy water conditions. Make sure maintainance has been done well.The most important consideration is how was it taken care of. If it looks like it was rode hard and put away wet it is very likely that the internals were not taken care of either. Check floor for squishy spots. 3500 seems a fair price if it is in good condition. Try to get it out on the water before you buy. I paid 4300 for mine and it should have been a little lower. Make sure all the electrical works , check the trailer for bad rust unmaintained wheel bearings, lights that dont work. Let me know what you decide. I will update info on my boat as I get it.. Wish the wind at your back.