www.iFourWinns.com

My wife and I are looking at purchasing a 2000 298 Vista. I'm at a loss at what is considered to be high hours.

The boats we are looking at have between 200 - 350 hours.

What is considered to be high hours? How many hours should the motors last?

What other issues should we be aware of with an 8 year old boat?

Thanks!

About 400 hrs would be considered average for this age of boat, but up to 800 hrs if the boat is being used in areas with an extended season. The engines should go for about 1000 to 2000 hrs without major work but this will depend a lot on maintainance and care ect.

Condition overall means a lot more than judging totally on useage. Is the gelcoat nicely pressented with no damage, same with interior trim and fittings, skeg props and housings in good condition, this will show a owner who repairs and maintains when needed, this will reflect though the whole boat, when you have satisfied the above criteria a marine survey is required before purchase

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2005 Four Winns Sundowner (Sold)
350 MAG B1

I recently purchased a 2002 298 with 230 hrs. Compression testing on all cylinders were at the high end of the factory specs and within 2-3% of each other which is amazing. The engines are the Volvo 5.0GFi - GM block. The condition of the engines and boat were perfect.

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2002 Vista 298 VP 5.0Gxi

What engines are in the boats you are looking at ? 5.0L or 5.7L? Either one will do a good job on the 298. A slight bit more room in the engine bay for maintenence with the 5.0s, but not much more.

We bought our 268 with 340 hours on the single 5.7L VP, the boat was 3 years old at the time.
Have the engines and boat surveyed by someone not affiliated with the seller of the boat you chose. You'll sleep better at night knowing you had it done.

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One of 4 Previous (Sold) Boats:
2000 Four Winns 268 Vista

Current Boat: 2004 Chaparral 235 ssi cuddy

I have a 2001 Vista 298. We boat in the Northern Chesapeake Bay. I have about 330 hours on my 5.7L GSi twins. Which I consider low annual average usage. Don't forget a twin engine does not work as hard as a single. So, 330 hours on a single is much more usage than 330 hours on a twin.

Check to see if the oil filter has been relocated up to the front of the engine. 2001 was the first year they moved it to the front. If not, it is located in the lower back part or the engine and very difficult to change the filter. VP does sell a kit to move it to the front - highly recommended.

Check to conditions of the aft bilge pump-hose puts enough stress on the connector that is cracks; the shower sump pump; twin horns, trim pump reservoirs leak (look for reddish fluid running down the back transom; I/O trim senders; battery charger; cabin hatch seal - leaked; anchor windlass relay switch (operate it from both the helm and bow - make sure it stops when you release switch. All had to be replaced over the years.

In average seas with wind across the bow, any wake while at cruising speed will wet the windshield. My main gripe.

Overall, we love the boat!

Joe

Nice checklist joetallyho. Many of what you mentioned are common problems on the larger FW cruisers. Seen similar reports on 288's, 328's and 348/358's. At least they are good things to check.

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One of 4 Previous (Sold) Boats:
2000 Four Winns 268 Vista

Current Boat: 2004 Chaparral 235 ssi cuddy