Published problems on Sunseekers are scarce: there are no recall notices with details, and the useful material comes from an owner interviewed by Motor Boat & Yachting. Treat this page as owner experience to check on the boat in front of you.
Predator 60 EVO: bathing platform hydraulics
The owner of a Predator 60 EVO, one of 33 built, told MBY he had a persistent leak of hydraulic fluid from the internal hoses connected to the bathing platform rams, which made the platform very slow to raise. His engineers made a completely new component to get a leak-free fit, and it has been trouble-free since. MBY calls the platform hydraulics one area to scrutinise.
Where to look. Raise and lower the platform several times and time it. Look for fluid at the rams, hoses and fittings, and in the space below.
Sunroof guide rails
The same owner cleans and lubricates the sunroof guide rails with a marine-grade lubricant, as they get contaminated over time, he says especially from shell fragments dropped by gulls.
Where to look. Run the roof through full cycles and look at the rails for dirt and wear.
Thruster batteries on shaft-drive boats
The owner's thruster battery once gave out at an inopportune moment. MBY points out that a big shaft-driven boat relies heavily on its thrusters.
Where to look. The age and condition of the thruster batteries and their charging, and a thruster test at the dock.
What to check on a Sunseeker
| Area | What to look for | Source of the concern |
|---|---|---|
| Bathing platform | Slow raising, fluid at rams and hoses | Owner, Predator 60 EVO |
| Sunroof | Contaminated or worn guide rails | Owner, Predator 60 EVO |
| Thrusters | Battery age and charge, function | Owner, Predator 60 EVO |
Writing it up
"Bathing platform: raises slowly, about 90 seconds from down to up, with hydraulic fluid weeping from the hose fitting at the port ram. Recommend the hydraulic hoses and fittings are inspected and renewed by a specialist." Time the platform and say where the fluid is.