Need three answers fast.... please!!!

[DanB]

Looking to buy a 2000 230 VRS in the next couple of days. I have three issues however:
- Tried a 2003 210 vrs at the dealer. The drivers chair doesn't seem to swivel to face the rest of the boat. Would an 00 230 do this? Just seems nice to be able to swivel & join the conversation.

- Boat comes with the Northstar upgrade. Any problems with this motor? Read something somewhere about problems getting parts, expensive repairs, etc.

- Last of all, the boat has no trailer. Talked to the local MC dealer, and he said MC won't sell me a trailer unless there is a boat on it! Seems outrageous! What about people like me who buy a MC with no trailer, or for those whose trailer is damaged in a crash. So if no new trailer, and I can't find a used trailer (anyone got a trailer for a 230 VRS in New England???), can anyone suggest a good third-party trailer for this boat? And how much do think this would run ballpark???

Thanks in advance!!!

[DanB]

And if I can't get a mastercraft trailer, can someone suggest a trailer company that does well with inboard-type trailers? Someone who can pretty much ensure a great fit?

[Leroy]

DanB; On one I can confirm my 2001 230 VRS drivers seat doesn't rotate around either. Think the back hits the wheel and you can't move it back far enough to clear it. I wanted that also, but haven't missed it in use. The front part of the seat that folds up is useful.

The Northstar was expensive, over 8k upgrade, but I haven't heard anything on it. Oil consumption seems to be an issue. This being a Cadilac engine its been on the leading edge of many technologies. http://www.babcox.com/editorial/us/us100232.htm

In 2001 you could buy a trailer for $4,430 retail.

[lakes Rick]

The northstar engine has alot of trouble in cars.. Head problems and head stud/bolts pulling out of the block.. I would not buy one in a car, you be the judge in a boat..... Stop in at your local caddy dealer and go around back to talk to a technician, NOT the service writer..

[Tom023]

Dan/Leroy

On the seat , I have a 2001 X30, which is the same as the 230VRS (I don't think they are using different seats, but possibly). The seat DOES rotate around, but it takes a little fiddling to get it there. You have to slide it all the way forward to clear the steering wheel, and then it's still a bit of tight fit, but once you get the hang of it, it's pretty easy.

[pdoppenheim]

My M/C dealer (Watersports, MI) was happy to sell me a new trailer when mine got stolen. They were actually looked around and found me a used one at considerable savings. Fortunately the Keego Harbor Police were able to get my trailer back before I bought one.

I think M/C only does not want to sell their trailers to non-owners.

[east tx skier]

On the trailer, I hear of people using shoreliners from time to time. There's also dorsey. I've had a lot of good experience with Dorsey ordering replacement brake parts for my MC trailer. Great folks. I have no idea about the quality of their trailers. They're a smaller company though so they might work with you.

[Professor]

I agree with LakesRick about the Northstar engine. Maybe it is better now but my personal experience with it was expensive. Also I agree East Tx. Dorsey makes a very well built trailer and they care about their customers.

[DanB]

Good advice. I think I'm going to take a pass on the boat. Rather stick to an engine thats been around awhile! Anyone know of a 21-23 open bow MC in the Northeast for under $30K???

[Professor]

Not in your area but look at their site and there are links to “boat trader,” NADA boat values, etc. Good other info also. Good luck on the purchase! http://www.liquidsportsmarine.com/

[MasterMason]

check boat tradier online....

[TalleyHo]

For reference, my X2 (Prostar 205 hull) is made by Remington. I've also had Hoss trailers. Not all that excited about my existing trailer (lots of brake problems, mostly electrical), but solid none-the-less. It uses a torsion bar instead of springs. It seems to handle bumps and such pretty well -- no bouncling like some of the spring trailers.

[bkblaida]

Check Flipsell.com Always a good selection across the USA across all brand names.