2001 310 Sundancer

M

mchap

Member
Joined
Mar 22, 2007
RO Number
25594
Messages
14
I was wondering if anyone with first hand knowlege and experience could share their likes and dislikes on this model. It is equipped with twin 350 MAG MPI with v-drives and pretty well loaded. Overall quality, fit and finish, handing, etc. It is a decent drive to the dealers so I haven't been out to look at it. Anything specific I should be checking closely, I thought I read something about the v-drives being a potential issue. I've also seen a couple claiming new engines recently replaced by Merc. Common or just a nuumbers game because of the popularity?

This would be my second boat and I'm looking to move up from a 2003 260 Signature Chaparral so this is what I'll compare it to in general terms. Nice boat, but cramped for the over nights/weekends.

Thanks,

Mike
 
I have a 2002 310DA, it is a great boat. I also have the 350 MAG Horizons with v-drives. It burns 20 gph at 23 knot cruising speed. It is definitely a nice upgrade from the size boat you have. A lot of room for a boat that size. The reason why you have seen some with replaced engines is due to the water ingestion issue with the old style exhaust on that boat and some other models. Half way through 2001 the exhaust was updated to prevent this problem. Some people were able to replace the exhaust and even engines while still under warranty. Look for the updated exhaust if you plan to buy 1998 through 2001. The 2002s all have updated exhaust. Mine is actually for sale. I have it on boattrader. I am located in Somerset, MA if you're interested. It is in like new condition. If not, I am happy to answer any specific questions you have about this model for you. We have been very happy with it. Good luck.
 
I forgot the vdrive question. As far as I know, the transmissions are supposed to be very solid with no issues.
 
I have a 2001 SR 310 with 350 Mag Horizons and V-drives that I bought 4 years ago from our SR dealer here in Maine. My family has put more than 250h on the boat traveling from Down East Maine to Cape Cod and the Islands. This is a solid, sea worthy boat with an incredible amount of features packed into a 31 ft hull. Ours is for sale also as we have outgrown her and are looking for a larger boat.
In 4 seasons we've had our share of minor problems, most of which I have been able to fix. However, despite having the "upgraded" exhaust system, we still suffered water ingestion in one engine two years ago. The dealer claimed that the valve timing was the culprit and much to our surprise,since the engine warrenty had expired, managed to get SR to rebuild BOTH engines at no coast to us. They apparently replaced the faulty ECM's as well and there has been no problems with this issue since. This year we had problems with both transmissions and had to have one replaced and the other rebuilt. The problem was failure of the oil coolers which resulted in sea water ingestion in the tranny. According to my friends on ClubSeaRay.com this is not an uncommon problem with mers's and short of replacing the oil coolers periodically, there is no good way to predict when this problem might occur.
The preceeding info is not to scare you away from this boat, but to alert you and your surveyer about some of the common problems associated with this make and model. Again, check out YachtWorld.com; there are alot of 2001 SR 310's to choose from.
Regards,
 
Thanks for the input, thats great feedback on the exhaust that I'll look closely into. Your boat looks great TJ, the only thing I do know for certain is I definately can't afford to own two boats. So I either have to sell mine first or use it as a trade-in.

My wife and I are definately looking forward to the up-grade and the much needed space for next season.
 
I agree with maniac, don't get discouraged or let it pevent you from buying a 310, as other boats have had these same issues. A good survey can do wonders, whether you buy it from a dealer or private party. The 310 really is a great boat and you'll be very happy with it. I went from a 26 ft Larson to mine and it made a world of difference.

I understand about the two boat ownership, I am in the same situation. Maybe you can work some magic at the Newport show.

Wait, I have a great idea. I'm hoping to buy a Silverton from Boatworld. Maybe we can work out a three way deal where I trade mine in and you trade yours in for mine..........
 
mchap,

We are also happy 310DA owners of 3 1/2 years. Previous owner had the engines replaced (long Blocks) along with exhaust upgrade. Had 52 hours on them, and we have put on another 300. The boat has been very reliable. Replacements during our ownership include air conditioner, water heater, refrigerator, and manifolds/risers. It needs all new canvas & eisenglass soon.

Mainiac, I've been worried about the oil coolers for a while. Surprised that they don't use pencil zincs. I think I'll have them replaced at the upcoming oil change. Thanks for the tip.
 
Thanks everyone.

TJ sounds interesting. I'll be trying to get to BW next week to see what they have coming in from the show or in the works. Boston has a in water show coming up near the end of September, their last chance to make some numbers for the year before winter hibernation.

Mike
 
Good idea. If you don't have a salesman you have been working with, Derek Leigh at Boatworld is a great guy. I have been dealing with him because others have referred me. Good luck.
 
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