look fors in a 2007 350 new to us

bandk

We are awaiting a survey and sea trial for a new to us 2007 350.  What survey findings would be a concern to you?  Boat has  abt 350 hrs, gen has less than 10 hrs.  We currently own a 2005 232 and love it.   Looking forward to possibilities of enjoying the 350 even more.

Dream_Inn

The first concern that jumps out at me is less than 10 hours on the generator.  I'd make sure that during the survey it is ran under full load (air conditioner, microwave, fridges, etc. all at once) for at least an hour, if not longer.  Those gennys have to be ran more often & a boat like that, you want to be able to enjoy the comforts by using your generator without problems.  I would get a compression check done on both motors.  Also look for signs of abuse or neglect.  (ie, are there water stains in the engine room like from a leaky water pump).  Hopefully the surveyor will actually operate everything, including full motion of seacocks.  At that age, you may have clamps that are on their way to failure (not a big deal, but just something you should note to fix yourself).  I say that because my boat is an 2008 and I've had to do that as well.  

Leaks or smells?  Anything being hidden by a scent?  Wet carpet?

The 350 is a great boat and you are doing it right by getting a survey.  I guess anything with engines or generator are the main things I'd be concerned enough about.  Good luck!

bandk

DI Thanks for your reply. Boat has been stored and serviced at single marina since 2007. All service records provided.  Has been on the hard since late 2017.  Believe genny was new in 2017.  Other than dust, looks and smells clean. Engine compartment very clean. Will wait to see what survey brings. Thanks for recommendation to have compression test on both motors. We are seeing that some surveyors recommend/include, some do not.  Are buyers typically present at the survey?  Hearing differing opinions and would like to hear more. thanks

earl1z19

You are paying for the survey so no reason not to be there. They can point things out to you that you need to know.

Willhound

Absolutely be there. If the surveyor doesn't want you there, find another one. I learned a lot and got a lot of tips from mine. And instead of reading a report later and trying to figure out what it meant, I could relate because I was there in real time.

earl1z19

Make a list of your questions and ask him every one of them. 

Spyderweb

Absolutely agree with @Willhound.  I was present for all 6 hours of my survey and learned so much.