Should I consider purchasing a 2004 SV211 used in brackish water???

[BradNautique]

I have seen a number of posts warning people to stay away from saltwater boats. I have found a 2004 SV211 that was used in brackish waters. It has the 370 HP ZR6 6.0 PCM closed cooling engine. If the price is right, should I consider purchasing or stay away?? Please help?

[azeus17]

I think it depends on how it was taken care of. I owned a '89 Sport in FL that was used for almost 20 years on the inner coastal. Did it show signs of it, yes...did it ever prevent me from using it, no. Mine was not closed cooling. Look over the engine and drive train. Does it show signs of rust or corrosion? Pull apart a few wire connectors, do they look corroded (this was the one area that I did have to put some work in to)? I would not hesitate to buy another boat that was used in salt water, if the price was right and the boat looked clean. It takes a little more effort on the owners part to keep it in good shape. I think most of the people that say "Stay away from salt water boats no matter what!" are people that have probably never owned a salt water boat and are just making an assumption that any saltwater boat is crap.

[azeus17]

Oh, and from my personal experience with my boat and my river...pretty much any time someone says they used the boat in "brackish" water means that at least some of the time it was full blown salt water...not that that makes any difference about what I said above. I just think it is funny how people try to stay away from the dreaded "Salt" word...

[swc5150]

I have seen a number of posts warning people to stay away from saltwater boats. I have found a 2004 SV211 that was used in brackish waters. It has the 370 HP ZR6 6.0 PCM closed cooling engine. If the price is right, should I consider purchasing or stay away?? Please help?

If you were from a coastal area, where you'd likely use it in similar water, I'd say go for it. If not, I'd stay away. The only people who'll know exactly how the boat was maintained in that water are the owner and God - and only one will tell you the truth for sure (and he ain't talkin').

[scottb7]

I was also thinking of purchasing a boat out of ny that was used in salt water...i don't understand the above comment. why does it matter if you are going to use it in similar water? why should i not buy a closed cooling system boat well taken care of and use in fresh water?

[swc5150]

Because living in the midwest, we have access to used boats that have only been used in fresh water. There's a reason salty boats are a deal when it comes to price. Salt doesn't just affect the motor, it gets everywhere, and corrodes things you won't readily see simply by looking. If one is buying to drive it in salt water anyway, go ahead and save some bucks and buy a salty.

[Mikeski]

completely depends on how the boat was maintained. unfortunately the 211 hull is notorious for taking on water, mine does and has since day 1. Do an inspection. Hold a small digital camera inside the center plug access and take some photos around the V drive, do the same around all sides of the motor belly. If you see much rust then you can expect future issues. Do a good inspection of the wiring harness, look for green corrosion. Plan on replacing the exhaust manifolds at some time in the future and factor that into the price. Can you live with some pitted finishes on the stainless and chrome? Can you live with some rust and stains or flaking paint on the tower and windshield frame? Mechanically I am not too worried about salt boats, cosmetically they take a beating. Just depends on how particular you are.

[BradNautique]

Thanks everyone for the great advice.