Possible Malibu Purchase: 2004 Model Question

[toyosuprablue]

Hey Malibu Crew,

I'm looking into purchasing my first Malibu and have done some research, but was hoping to also get opinions / clarifications.  Owner says it is a Wakesetter, but I went through the 2004 catalog and a 25' Wakesetter is not an option.  Based on photos in the catalog I'm confident it is a Sunscape 25 LSV with the illusion tower.  Would it be that model with a wakesetter package or something?  Does that make sense?

At the end of the day, it doesn't really matter what exact model it is, but I'm curious what your thoughts are.  Anything specific to look out for when checking mechanicals?  It is equipped with the 8.1L Vortec.

Also, thoughts on whether it is a good deal are appreciated.  Assuming no mechanical and cosmetic issues.  It has 500 hours and all upholstery has been replaced a year ago.  Interior looks like new in photos.  Price is firm at $29k

[minnmarker]

The difference between the LSVs and Wakesetters of that era was built in ballast (for the Wakesetters).  If it has a center ski locker then it is an LSV - which may actually be preferable since you can put a nice ballast bag in place where a Wakesetter would have a hard tank there.  And skis too if your not using the ballast.  Also likely more room for aft ballast bags too.

I think it sounds like a good price.  Would suggest you do a compression test on the engine, and run it on a hose a bit if you can't test drive it.  Also make sure the prop shaft is straight by turning it.  Steering and rudder too.  Hard steering is an easy fix if it's binding but would be good to know.

Several good threads on this site regarding purchasing used boats.

 

[toyosuprablue]

Thanks Minnmarker!  I am expecting to test drive it before laying out the cash so any gremlins should be easier to detect than if buying dry docked.

[Ronnie]

Sounds like you have some info already but JIC, here's a link to our Resources section for that boat. The Malibu & Engine manuals are there as well as the Malibu Brochure.

2004 25 Sunscape LSV

[MadMan]

This is around the time Malibu/Indmar had bellhousing alignment issues, which caused damper failures.  Could effect the price.

[Nitrousbird]

On 3/17/2019 at 8:46 AM, MadMan said:

This is around the time Malibu/Indmar had bellhousing alignment issues, which caused damper failures.  Could effect the price.

Big block motor, which I don't believe is impacted by this. 

[toyosuprablue]

Yes, this has the Vortec 8.1L