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278 owners help with purchase
https://www.smwebhead.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=5824		 Page 1 of 1
Author:  werv2go [ Tue Jun 08, 2010 6:50 pm ]
Post subject:  278 owners help with purchase
Looking at a 1997 Vista 278 to buy. Would appreciate any comments on this boat good or bad. Here is a list of what it has on it:
Excellent Condition (Original Owner)
Always Under Cover

7.4 Volvo-Penta, 300 HP (Approx. 700 hours)
2 Batteries with Battery Switch
Duo-Prop (2 props that spin in opposite directions)

Cabin
Air Conditioning and Heat (Heat Pump with separate shore power)
AC/DC Refrigerator
Electric Stove
Electric Water Heater
Front V Berth (Sleeps 2)
Aft Berth (Sleeps 2)
Dinette (Converts to Berth)
Microwave
Head – Manual Pump
CD Single

Cockpit
Wood Grain Steering Wheel
Wood Grain Dash
Driver Bench
Aft Bench
Pull Out Bench From Under Driver’s (faces backward)
Fill In Cushions
Removable Table
Trim Tabs

Other
Swim Platform with Ladder
Camper Cover
Cockpit Cover
Windshield Wipers
Bilge Heater (Do not have to winterize)
Author:  millhaven_nice_guy [ Tue Jun 08, 2010 7:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: 278 owners help with purchase
I would think that spec'd unit should sell for 15K without a trailer and about 17.5 with. Sounds like a nice package.
Author:  Buoy Howdy [ Tue Jun 08, 2010 7:21 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: 278 owners help with purchase
My previous boat was this same model and year and I really loved the layout. With a 9'-4" beam it is a lot roomier than most cruisers in this size range. The dinette is on the side leaving you 4 berths without breaking down your eating area.

I would definitely recommend a hull survey. My boat had stringer rot but there are plenty of folks on this forum who have Vistas of that vintage in excellent shape. A 13 year old boat will need constant upkeep and most everything that I had to replace (water heater, frig, head, trim tab cylinder, etc) was readily available. The one exception was the hatches which are out of production. The hinge broke on the larger hatch and I had to prop it open with a water bottle.

Engine room access is good with the single big block but it is a tad underpowered compared to the twin engine option that was available. Also the swim platform is narrow but many boats I have seen have aftermarket extensions. The port holes are a poor design and hold a small puddle of water, so it is common to see water stains on the "monkey fur" headliner near the ports.

Front deck access is easy with the integrated steps and walk through windshield. This is something we take for granted with Four Winns but many competing brands fall short here.

All told it is a terrific boat and would be an excellent choice if it passes a survey.
Author:  werv2go [ Thu Jun 10, 2010 6:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: 278 owners help with purchase
Thanks for the help in determining whether to purchase this boat.
Author:  Buoy Howdy [ Thu Jun 10, 2010 5:11 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: 278 owners help with purchase
Good luck with your evaluation and let us know what happens. We love "new" boat threads.
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