opinions about a bowrider boat?

[Hans993]

Hi Guys,
I am new here.
I am looking for some feedback on a boat I am interested in buying.
The boat in question is 2007 Cutter (by Grew) bowrider and the model is the XL-173 I/O.
The engine is 3.0 Mercruiser with low hours.
The trailer is a single axle EZ-Loader.
No Bimini or any other attachments.
Boat has been stored indoors as far as I know.
If you google "Grew the company" it comes up with a story about that the company went into receivership since May of last year, furthermore there is the story about a shooting on Feb 21 that year and the owner/CEO had died. The company shut down operations and later on went into receivership because of liabilities and such. Seems like the company has found the same faith as the owner.
I don't know if this has a big impact on resale of their product but it's obvious the 10 year transferable protection warranty has no more meaning.
Anyways I wonder if you guys could give me your opinions about this product. I understand it is an entry level name.
Also what do you guys think is a fair market value for this boat?

Your feedback is much appreciated.

Regards,
Hans

 

[H20Rat]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

Boats aren't like cars... When buying a used boat, you are looking for the condition of it, nothing more, nothing less. The name on the side of the hull is meaningless. Unlike a car, boat powertrains are generally off the shelf components bought from one of a couple suppliers. Its either a merc or a penta, the mfg of the hull didn't do anything with the powertrain.

I personally own a boat who's mfg when under years ago. Hasn't bothered me in the slightest, but it does make you a little bit more careful with things like the seats. If you lose one, you will have to have a new one custom made. (which in reality isn't as bad as it sounds, its going to most likely be cheaper than getting a new oem one if the mfg was still in business!)

 

[ezmobee]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

Your location is a really important piece of info for us to answer this question. Boat prices vary greatly by region.

 

[drrpm]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

Its a small, low powered entry level boat. If it meets your needs and is in good condition then something under $10K would be in the ball park.

 

[Hans993]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

Thanks guys,

I am located in Beautiful BC, Canada :facepalm:

 

[jkust]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

I have to say I have not previously heard of this brand of bowrider. I'd say it may be a good opportunity to exploit the obsolescence of the brand and negotiate a better than market value deal. If it were me, given it is so new, the brand would sway my purchasing decision.

 

[Hans993]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

So I was told the boat has low hours but how does one find out on this type of engine?
I could not find an hour meter. I have taken a few pictures with my iPhone.

 

[southkogs]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

There may not be an hours meter on it. Some have 'em - some don't. They're not necessarily as reliable as an odometer in a car - or put another way, a boat with low hours isn't necessarily analogous to a car with low mileage. Don't worry as much about hours of use as you worry about present condition and past maintenance.

 

[gtochris]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

Nothing remarkable about the engine, I think it dates back to the 1970's however has received some updates since...

It really comes down to the boat and condition. My boat, like many on the lower end doesnt have an hour meter.

I'm surprised to see a SS prop on a 3.0L...

Inspect the bellows, ask if the impeller has ever been done, 2 important parts.

 

[Hans993]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

I suppose it is recommended to get Marine Survey done then?

Here some pictures - sorry they are not the best quality.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

A marine survey? Probably not worth it. Not much of concern about rot on a 2007 hull especially one that looks real nice like that one does. A check on the motor and drive by a qualified mechanic is always a good idea though.

 

[DuckHunterJon]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

I'd skip the expense of the survey. Pay a mechanic $100 to go over the engine and if it comes back with a clean bill of health, I'd say good to go. As for the manufacturer being in or out of business, I wouldn't worry about it. You likely would never intereact with the manufacturer again if you bought it new and they were still around.

It is a nice looking boat, you just have to decide if it's the "right" boat. One thing to consider, if this is your first boat, you will likely use it primarily to figure out what you want and don't want in your next boat. As such, look for a deal so you can come out right on the resale. Then again, it might be the first and last boat you ever buy - every one is different. Good luck with it.

 

[Friscoboater]

Re: opinions about a bowrider boat?

I am with EZ. The newer boats you real do not have to worry about much. Just have a mechanic check out the engine, and make sure you get the winter price.