2001 Wellcraft Coastal 270 Transom Problem

[Bigboyfishingteam]

Hello all, im in the market for a 2001 to 2004 Aquasport 275 or Wellcraft 270. I came across a 2001 Wellcraft 270 Coastal (pretty much identical to the Aquasport 275) with two 225 Yamahas with 700 hours. Everything went well with our seatrial and motors. Boat did 40 WOT at 5100 rpms (with an 19 inch ss prop).

HOWEVER, i decided to check the transom out and noticed a semicircle about 10 inches under the center column (is this called a stringer or gusett)... See pictures below.  When we gunned the boat we notice the crack move an open slightly. Has this happend to anyone here? Repair cost? Advice?

This will be my first boat and dont want to end up having my engines fall off while crossing to the Bahamas with my family onboard. Price is fair at 39k.

[RickK]

I think I'd keep looking for another boat - that crack looks scary.

[wingtime]

Looks like that is a gusset. The screws below it look like they are for an underwater light. I doubt there is wood in there (where the crack is) but if there is I'd suspect that light is the source of water intrusion.

If I was purchasing a boat like that I'd have it survayed. That crack could be an easy or a major repair. Hard to tell, but if it is opening up under load... that's not good.  If your serious about that boat I'd have a very qualified expert or even two look at it and give you an opinion and an estimate on the repairs. Then if you decide to move forward with the purchase the seller can either elect to have it repaired. Or discount the selling price by the estimated repair costs. If not look for another boat.

[Bigboyfishingteam]

Thanks guys, i decided to move on and keep looking. I had someone take a look at it and it will cost about 6k to 8k to repair. Goes to show you need to be very careful when buying a used boat.

[wingtime]

Good thing you had a good eye and spotted it. That seller has a real problem to deal with.