questions on a 1994 Chris Craft 7.4 V/P

[playpool]

Hello,
Need a little help. I have a 1997 SeaRay that I am considering trading for a 1994 Chris Craft 237 BR with a 7.4 Volvo-Penta drive. I'm love my boat but am only considering trading because I want more room and power. The owner of the boat wants something smaller so this may work well. I know C/C is a solid boat but I hope someone can give me tips or advice. The hull and interior is 9.5/10 and the boat runs. Anything I should check when I meet the seller tomorrow?
Thanks for the help

 

[Augoose]

Re: questions on a 1994 Chris Craft 7.4 V/P

Engine compression, engine oil for water, manifold for cracks, lower gear unit oil for water intrusion, metal flakes in gear oil, engine hours....

 

[playpool]

Re: questions on a 1994 Chris Craft 7.4 V/P

Thanks for the tips. I guess I am more concerned if the engine and drive are prone to problems or the boat itself.

 

[Augoose]

Re: questions on a 1994 Chris Craft 7.4 V/P

Thanks for the tips. I guess I am more concerned if the engine and drive are prone to problems or the boat itself.

I wouldn't say either are "prone" to problems at all, but even the best made boats can rot away if not cared for. I've got a '99 Chris Craft BR and I am very impressed with the build quality - haven't found any wood on mine anywhere- its all synthetic. With that said, I'd tap around the transom listening for dull or soft spots which go "thud" rather than "tap", look for cracks in the gelcoat which could indicate flexing of the transom, pull all access panels inside the boat and look for rot - ski locker, etc. Even look at hiring a marine surveyor for his inspection - I did but I was driving from SC to FL so I didn't want to waste a long drive if the boat wasn't worth it.
Chances are if someone took good care of the interior like you say they wouldn't let the rest go south....

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: questions on a 1994 Chris Craft 7.4 V/P

the engine is GM - same used by nearly all the boat engine marinizers. the marinization is Volvo Penta. the drive is Volvo Penta. other than VP makes about 1 for every 10 mercruisers, parts are a bit more expensive, and not every marine place services them - its not a bad drive.

it will come down to the maintenance that has been done. if it has been well cared for and continues to be, it will last a long time

 

[playpool]

Re: questions on a 1994 Chris Craft 7.4 V/P

Thanks for all the tips! I went to take a look at the boat. I think I am going to pass. The hull is in great shape but the vinyl has a bit more sun damage than I would like to have. Also it had the OMC King Cobra drive vs. the Volvo-Penta. I have read that the OMC King Cobras are not so great.