2008 RXP 255, what's it worth?

[Noob]

Hey guys, I'm looking to get a PWC, and I've been browsing the classifieds around my area. I've come across a 2008 SeaDoo RXP 255 with 35 hours. The ski looks pretty good in the picture, but here is the description:

Custom paint, stage 2 riva kit, top speed of 77mph when running right. Currently not firing on all cylinders. Only tops out at about 44mph. Comes with trailer, sea doo cover, and 2 o'neil neoprene life jackets in great condition.

I've contacted the seller, and he stated that he thinks it needs a new ecu and that it's a $600 part. He's got it listed for $4500. So my question is this: for the mechanics or more experienced folks out there, what are the high and low end possible issues that I could be facing with buying this ski? Also what is a good price point for this ski?

Any information will be helpful. Thank you!

 

[pug pug]

hiya pal could be a money pit your buyin:facepalm:

 

[XP 787]

Assume it needs an engine.

 

[Noob]

So what would a new engine cost? And what would the ski and trailer be worth assuming the engine is bad?

 

[3ftDeep]

Here's one more voice to add: Don't do it.

 

[Hawk388]

Here's another voice to add. DON'T BUY IT!

Typically, if a guy cannot show you receipts from where all modifications were done by a shop with an excellent reputation, then the owner did the mods. If the owner did the mods, you can damned sure bet the owner also knows what's really wrong with the ski and is lying to you. A new engine is going to run upwards of $3500 ASSUMING the supercharger is fine and YOU do all the work.

When it comes to modified boats or ski's, just like cars, you can go ahead and assume it has been ridden VERY hard.

 

[sktn77a]

Make a deal with the guy (no-one else is going to buy it in its present condition): agree to buy it from him for $5100 if, and only if, the boat runs perfectly after the ECU replacement. You've got to be suspicious of anyone who isn't prepared to put $600 into the machine to sell it.

 

[Spimothy Leary]

ya, I tend to agree with the above, unless you are an experienced tuner and can diagnose/repair everything then your just asking for trouble at that price.

its a $6500+ ski (ballpark) if running right but since its a guessing game as to what the actual issue is then you have about a 20% chance that you stumbled across a very good deal and an 80% chance that your about to dive into a money pit.