New to us 2008 Cobalt 222 - Some Questions

[Sinclair Golfer]

We bought the boat with 640 hrs from a good friend of mine. He took good care of it but did not use it much the last 3 or 4 yrs (5 hrs in total).

1 - We are getting it serviced for the usual stuff - Oil, Lube, Impeller. Anything else we should be looking at? The general maintence items are quoted at just under $1200. Is that typical? A lot more than a car!

2 - on the test drive I noticed it vibrated a little bit at low speed, hard turns. Didn't think much of it. Now that we've had it on the water a few times it has gotten worse to the point that if the trim is down and we turn left the entire boat shakes pretty violently. We stopped using the boat until this is remedied. Any idea of what this is? On a straightaway it is smooth so I don't think its the prop or engine mounts.

3 - I've yet to check the manual concerning the batteries. It has two. Which position should I leave it in? How about when I store it for a week or two btwn uses?

4 - The upper hull, above the bumper line, has a crack (which I touched and now they are more small holes). Is this typical? Anything to long-term worry about other than getting it repaired? Concerned this may pop up in other places.

Thank you for your help!

[jhnmdahl]

Hi Sinclair - others will chime in, but here's my take:

1. $1200 for just the things you mention feels steep, but if it includes removing the outdrive and doing bellows work or something it becomes very reasonable.

2. Outdrive is a possibility (alignment is fairly important, and the joints can wear over time), or it could be as simple as the propeller being out of balance. Your shop should be able to take a look and let you know pretty easily, but expect the bill to cover at least several hours of shop time.

3. Leave it off when not using it (unless you're coming back later that day). Most people use one battery as the "start" battery and one as the "house" battery to run the stereo, etc., so anchoring and listening to music all day doesn't prevent you from being able to start your engine to go back home.

4. A picture of the crack will help a lot. Cobalt boats are notoriously robust, so the crack is likely just through the gelcoat layer and can be repaired pretty easily, either by a shop or with a DIY kit. Knowing how to do gelcoat touchups on an older boat is a good skill to have, but some people simply don't have the free time.

Finally - download a copy of the owner's manual for your boat from Cobalt at: https://cobaltboats.com/art/manuals/2008_222_OM.pdf

[AsLan7]

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So glad you found us, SG.

+1 above and don’t forget your trailer lites, winch, and wheel brakes & bearings.

Post a pic or two.

And welcome aboard mate.

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[JTinMO]

Get the props checked for balance, and if the outdrive hasn't been serviced in the last 3-4 years I would also recommend it. It may solve your shaking issue as well.