Looking at a used R5 and have questions

[RalphP]

Hi All. I am looking for an R5 and there is a 2014 available with 329 hours, 430hp Volvo and captains call but no trim tabs and no bimini as far as I can see on Boat Trader. I have a query out to the private seller.

My main question for the eperts is regarding the engine longevity, manifolds and risers. I understand about the closed cooling but I have gotten the impression that even with closed cooling they will need replacement due to extreme heat. What can you experienced owners tell me regarding what to expect (2 owners and in fresh water now)? Will I need to replace manifolds/risers and any advice on how to gauge the % of life left in the engine?

Also, I can get trim tabs installed for $2100 but not sure about a bimini top.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.

[Big Block Power]

Was this a saltwater boat?
If not the manifolds should not be a concern.
Hard to believe there isn't a binimi.

[sailor55330]

I have an R3. I’ll leave the engine side to the pros. Between tabs and a Bimini, it’s a Bimini all day everyday on that boat. Be prepared for sticker shock through the dealer. I was quoted 7800 for an ez fold Bimini (long story as the quotes me the wrong thing. On the plus side the boat is ready to receive it will all backing plates in place.

[stifflkd]

If the VP has the flush kit then you can get quite a few years out of the manifolds/risers in SW. That is assuming the previous owner regularly flushed the engine. If not they can go in 6-8 years. If you get a chance to run the boat bring along a IR temp gun. They are cheap, $20 on Amazon. Take your readings once the engine reaches temperature. Figure about $3K-$5K to replace if needed. If you are concern about the general health of the engine probably best to bring along a mechanic.

I would recommend trim tabs on a R5 to offset the lean to port as most people sit on the left side seating. Go to a Cobalt dealer, they install them all the time as if they came from the factory.

If ever in NJ I have a EZ fold bimini that was never used

[Krob1114]

Welcome. Good luck with your purchase.
I had a 2006 Volvo 6 cylinder in my first boat. Never had any problems with engine and it was running great when I sold it in 2013.

[RalphP]

Thanks everyone for your replies. This is a fresh water boat. I'm afraid it just doesn't add up because of how muck I'll spend to add trim tabs and a bimini. We'll use it in SW Florida and having had a previous boat in the area both are required IMO. I appreciate the help and thanks for the advice on the temp gun. I have one and will take it with me to FL when we go next week - just in case haha.

[Snowman8]

If you want trim tabs definitely pass on this boat and wait for one with trim tabs. Or plan on installing them. You will be wishing you had tabs when you get a boatload of people sitting on the port side. Some say the R’s don’t need tabs and they don’t, tabs just make them better! Good luck in your searches!