www.iFourWinns.com

I am new to boating. I am thinking of buying a 1997 205 sundowner with a 5.7 gli 225 hp volvo motor and outdrive, comes with a trailer for $9900. Is this a good boat and what should I look for. He keeps this at a marina its in the water all the time and he has painted the bottom, if I do buy this boat will have to paint the bottom every year or so. This boat is used in lake St. Claire

I have a 245 Sundowner of the same year.

Check the floor for wood rot. This year boat has a wood sole under the carpet, any soft spots might be an indication of trouble.

With the smaller 205 the power might be ok but my 245 and 250 hp, it is marginally powered. Make sure you have a similar load of how you will use the boat when you do your sea trial.

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Terry
Current: 07 Crownline 255 CCR cuddy - 350 Mag MPI/B3 "Casi Cielo"

Previous:97 245 Sundowner 5.7GI/SX

Tow vehicle: 1986 GMC 2500 Camper Special 454/TH400

I just bought the same boat in May. 97 205. I paid 9,500 but he could have gotten 11,000 or 12,000 for it. It was real clean. The only issue I have had was where the board that covers the gas tank was a little rubbery, I had to replace the cross section board. It didn't need it but I wanted it solid. Also my vinyl was in really good shape but with the kids in the boat I noticed the thread was breaking in the seems. The good think is the vinyl is not ripping but I just been sewing up the holes where the thread is breaking. But I really can't complain about that. Other than that I'm really happy with the boat. Big enough to take on the Saginaw bay and small enough to trailer to Higgins Lake for the weekend. We have been out on it every weekend beside 3 this summer.

I have the same boat/motor w/ the VP Duo Props. Very nice boat, but being at the end of the season I think your could probably get it for much cheaper than 9900. Depending on the hours/condition. Mine had over 400 hrs last year but was in perfect condition inside/outside. I paid 9 for it a year ago. I never find it to be underpowered or lack there of. The Duo props gets it out of the water in a hurry, even with a full load. GL w/ your purchase.

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1996 4 Winns Horizon 170 SOLD
1997 4 Winns Sundowner 205 SOLD
2000 4 Winns Horizon 230 CURRENT
Tow Vehicle: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited SOLD
1999 Chevy Tahoe 4x4 SOLD
2003 GMC Yukon XL 2500 6.0

I havent bought it yet I have him down to 8500 now. I think he will go lower the long I wait and keep looking

GL post some pictures up if you do decide to buy it!

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1996 4 Winns Horizon 170 SOLD
1997 4 Winns Sundowner 205 SOLD
2000 4 Winns Horizon 230 CURRENT
Tow Vehicle: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited SOLD
1999 Chevy Tahoe 4x4 SOLD
2003 GMC Yukon XL 2500 6.0