Zodiac Open 550 Pro

[Dino]

Hi, I'm looking at a Zodiac Open 550 with a 90hp Evinrude Oceanpro 2 stroke. It's a 1998 engine so I'm guessing the rib is the same vintage.
Does anyone have any knowledge of these boats and particularly the engine. The trailer is good and the boat is well priced. Is there anything i need to look for?
Thanks

 

[Nick_H]

At that age the seams on the RIB could be starting to fail. If they are, it will mean new tubes which will be expensive. I don't know how to check for it on a short viewing, but certainly question the seller about it. Ideally you'd blow it up, leave it at least 24 hrs, then see if it has gone down at all.

 

[longjohnsilver]

I had a similar sized Zodiac, the hull was very shallow v and slammed awfully. The worst rib I've had and was glad to see the back of it. Suggest you try it before buying.

 

[Dino]

Thanks for the info. It will only be used on a lake for leisure use. It's a very good deal, the tubes appear to have been replaced in the last 5 or 6 years and the engine is very clean with a recent service.