1989 220DA Sundancer under powered with 4.3L merc?

tomconnolly

Seaman
Joined
Jun 23, 2021
Messages
55
I'm considering buying a 1989 Sundancer, with a 4.3 Merc motor. I noticed most of these era boats have the 5.7L Merc. I hoped I could get some advice on whether that boat really needs the 5.7L, or the 4.3L has been just fine for others. I am hoping to get some feedback here before I take a drive to see it on the evening of 8-25-21 (ha ha, yes, that's today).

Also, is anyone aware of common problem areas on these boats? I know the refrigerator doesn't work. Anything common that I can look out for while shopping, or expect to have to fix in the next year or two of ownership? It has a shore power package, a carry-on air conditioner (is it water cooled?), head, alcohol and electric range, trim tabs.
 

alldodge

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Mar 8, 2009
Messages
40,719
Don't know first hand, but list its only 4000 lbs dry, so should do ok. Kind of light, my 23ft Rinker is 4300 and I have a single 300hp 7.4

A carry on AC is air cooled and most fit in thru the deck hatch
 
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