What to look for 98 Larson LXI 226

[Ryno_69]

I just purchased a 1998 Larson LXI 226 BR with the 5.7L, I was wondering if anyone has had any problems or issues that I would need to be aware of. The boat checked out fine and runs really good but sometimes there are little things that get over looked. Thats for the help.

 

[AZSenza]

Re: What to look for 98 Larson LXI 226

We have a 97 226LXi. The only big issue we have is the deck! The plywood under the bow is shot as well as the beam that runs under the console. The deck is held down to the stringers with stainless screws but the foam filled stringers dont hold the screws too well in a 12 year old boat. Everything else works fine, a few minor spider cracks in the gel coat and it seams they could have done a better job reinforcing the cap above the transom, its a little weak. All in all its a good solid craft. A keeper for sure. I dont mind doing a little wood and deck work so long as the stringers are ok. I do plan on recarpeting it, thats when I'll address the wood. Oh the seats...they did a poor job building the seat bottoms! I'm redoing them one at a time as well! The captain and first officer pedastal bases were pulling through the deck, I redrilled them and used BIG brass inserts, wet with epoxy then used stainless bolts to put the pedastals back down.

 

[JasonAych]

Re: What to look for 98 Larson LXI 226

I have a 97 with 280hrs with nothing to complain about. As mentioned, one of my pedestals ripped out. I believe it was because the prev owner put a longer pole in place putting more stress on it. I say this because there was no rot. I simply cut the pole back down, turned the pedestal, drilled some pilot holes and screwed it back down and haven't had a problem since.

These boats do have plywood decking and all fiberglass would be much nicer. Then on the other hand, as long as you keep the deck dry, there are no problems. If my boats get a good soaking, I simply vacuum it out with a strong wet/dry vac and leave it uncovered to dry out. If weather doesn?t permit, than I place a small fan in there to circulate the air. I really just don?t see this as a big deal.

The reason I liked the Larson, is that for a 22 foot boat it is on the light side. I have absolutely no problems pulling it with my Honda Ridgeline. The delta conic hull design does a good job hiding the fact that it is light weight, it handles like a heavier boat yet in plains out very quickly. I also found the interior to be a lot more open and less confined than say a Crownline. My buddies 225br Crownline does handle a little better and the fit and finish is nicer but not by much on both accounts. His boat/trailer combo surpasses my Ridegline?s 5k weight limit.

It is what it is. Overall, I really like the boat and I feel the quality is very good. I have no complaints.

Mine has the Volvo Penta EFI 5.7 with single prop sx drive. Seems to be an odd ball combo. Although, again, no complaints.