AS 590 Open

2017 AS 590 Open: What to Know Before You Buy, Inspect, or Upgrade This Center Console Boat If you’re looking at the 2017 AS 590 Open, you’re probably trying to answer a pretty practical question: is this boat still a smart choice today? That’s a fair concern. Used boats can look great in photos, but once you start digging into maintenance history, layout, engine condition, and real-world usability, the picture gets a lot clearer. The good news is that the 2017 AS 590 Open has a lot going for it if you know what to check. It’s the kind of boat that appeals to people who want a versatile open-deck layout, easy movement around the boat, and a setup that can work for fishing, cruising, or casual days on the water. But like any used boat, the value depends less on the model name and more on the details. In this article, we’ll break down the most important things buyers and owners should know, the common issues to watch for, and how to make a better decision whether you’re shopping, maintaining, or upgrading a 2017 AS 590 Open. - Why the 2017 AS 590 Open attracts buyers The 2017 AS 590 Open sits in a sweet spot for people who want a practical, open layout without jumping into a much larger or more complicated boat. The “open” design is a big part of the appeal. It gives you more usable space, easier movement, and a simpler layout that works well for different types of outings. That flexibility matters. A lot of boat owners want one vessel that can handle a fishing trip in the morning and a relaxed family cruise later in the day. The AS 590 Open is the kind of boat that can support that lifestyle if it’s equipped and maintained properly. For used-boat shoppers, the attraction usually comes down to a few things: - Simple, open layout with good deck usability - Versatile enough for multiple activities - Often more approachable than larger offshore boats - Easier to inspect and maintain than more complex cabin models Still, a boat like this can only deliver a good experience if the key systems are in solid shape. That’s where most buyers run into trouble: they fall in love with the layout but overlook the condition underneath. - The most common problem with used boats like the 2017 AS 590 Open The biggest issue isn’t usually the boat design itself. It’s neglect. A used boat can look clean on the surface while hiding problems in the engine, wiring, upholstery, fuel system, or hull. With open boats especially, exposure to sun, salt, and moisture can wear things down faster than expected. For the 2017 AS 590 Open, the most common buyer concerns tend to be: 1. Engine maintenance history 2. Corrosion or saltwater wear 3. Electrical issues 4. Upholstery and deck wear 5. Trailer condition, if included 6. Signs of previous impact or poor repairs These are not unusual problems, but they can become expensive quickly if ignored. The practical solution is simple: don’t shop based on appearance alone. Instead, inspect the boat like you’re buying a system, not just a hull. That mindset saves money and prevents a lot of frustration later. - What to inspect first on a 2017 AS 590 Open If you’re evaluating a 2017 AS 590 Open, start with the items that affect safety, reliability, and total ownership cost. - Engine and propulsion system This is the first place to focus. Ask for service records and look for proof of regular oil changes, impeller replacement, fuel filter changes, and winterization if applicable. Check for: - Smooth starting - Even idle - Clean acceleration - No unusual smoke - No warning alarms - Proper cooling water flow If the boat has a sterndrive or outboard setup, inspect the lower unit, propeller, and seals carefully. Any hesitation, rough shifting, or visible corrosion should be treated seriously. A sea trial is ideal. A boat can sound fine on a trailer and still reveal problems once it’s under load. - Hull and deck condition Walk the entire boat slowly and pay attention to the feel underfoot. Soft spots, flexing, or unusual sounds can indicate water intrusion or structural issues. Look for: - Cracks around stress points - Gelcoat damage - Repair marks - Delamination - Evidence of grounding or collision The hull of an open boat takes a lot of daily abuse, especially if it’s used often or stored outdoors. Small cosmetic wear is normal. Structural damage is not something to dismiss. - Electrical system Electrical problems are one of the most annoying things to troubleshoot after purchase. They’re often caused by corrosion, loose connections, or amateur repairs. Test: - Navigation lights - Bilge pump - Horn - Gauges - Electronics - Battery switches - Charging system Open boats are especially exposed to moisture, so even minor wiring issues can grow into bigger failures. If you see messy wiring or non-marine-grade parts, budget for cleanup. - Upholstery and seating This might seem cosmetic, but it’s not just about looks. Cracked vinyl, weak stitching, and waterlogged cushions can point to long-term exposure and poor care. Check: - Seat bases - Hinges and latches - Cushion seams - Storage compartments - Mold or mildew smell Replacement upholstery can add up faster than many first-time buyers expect. A boat with worn seating may still be a good buy, but only if the price reflects the repair cost. - Trailer and transport setup If the 2017 AS 590 Open comes with a trailer, inspect it just as carefully as the boat itself. Look for: - Rust on frame and springs - Tire age and tread - Working lights - Winch condition - Bearing service history - Brake function, if equipped A bad trailer can turn a decent boat into a headache. Transport issues are one of the most overlooked ownership costs. - How to tell if the 2017 AS 590 Open is a good fit for you Not every boat is right for every owner. The 2017 AS 590 Open makes the most sense for people who value open space, easy access, and a versatile layout more than luxury cabin features. It may be a good fit if you want: - A boat that’s easy to move around on - A layout that works for fishing and leisure - Something manageable in size - A practical used boat with broad usability It may not be ideal if you want: - Full overnight accommodations - High-end luxury features - Maximum weather protection - A boat that requires very little hands-on care That’s the real decision point. The best boat for you is the one that matches how you actually use the water, not just the one that looks good on paper. - Common ownership mistakes to avoid A lot of used-boat problems are preventable. The issue is that buyers often rush the process or underestimate ongoing maintenance. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid with a 2017 AS 590 Open: - Skipping the sea trial - Not checking service records - Ignoring corrosion - Assuming “clean” means “well maintained” - Forgetting to inspect the trailer - Buying without a survey if the boat is expensive or heavily used One of the smartest moves you can make is to treat the purchase like a full condition review. If you’re unsure, bring in a marine surveyor or mechanic. That upfront cost is usually small compared with the price of fixing hidden problems later. - Maintenance tips to keep a 2017 AS 590 Open in good shape If you already own a 2017 AS 590 Open, the goal is to protect your investment and keep the boat reliable. Good maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be consistent. - Rinse after every trip If the boat sees saltwater, a thorough freshwater rinse is non-negotiable. Salt left behind on hardware, rails, and fittings speeds up corrosion. Focus on: - Engine area - Hardware - Cleats - Rod holders - Hinges - Trailer components Even a quick rinse makes a big difference over time. - Keep up with engine service Follow the manufacturer’s schedule for oil, filters, plugs, and impeller checks. Don’t stretch service intervals because “it still runs fine.” Marine engines often fail from neglect, not age alone. Preventive maintenance is much cheaper than major repair. - Protect the upholstery and surfaces Use covers when possible and clean vinyl with marine-safe products. UV exposure is one of the biggest enemies of open boats. Also, try to: - Dry cushions before storage - Avoid harsh cleaners - Check seams regularly - Treat surfaces before they crack - Inspect drainage and bilge systems Open boats depend on good drainage. Make sure scuppers, drains, and bilge pumps are working properly. A blocked drain or failed pump can lead to water accumulation, which causes damage fast. This is especially important if the boat sits in the water or gets caught in heavy rain. - Store it properly If you can, store the boat under cover or use a quality full boat cover. Long-term sun and weather exposure can age a boat much faster than use alone. For seasonal storage: - Disconnect batteries - Stabilize fuel - Flush the engine - Remove valuables - Ventilate the interior - Why the open layout still works well today One reason people keep searching for boats like the 2017 AS 590 Open is that the open layout still makes a lot of sense. Boat buyers today often want flexibility more than fixed-purpose design. An open layout helps with: - Fishing space - Social seating - Easy cleaning - Better movement onboard - Simpler day-use functionality That makes the boat practical for mixed use. You don’t have to commit to a single boating style. You can configure the boat around the day, the weather, and the people onboard. That’s a big advantage for owners who want a boat that feels useful rather than overly specialized. - When the 2017 AS 590 Open is worth buying A 2017 AS 590 Open is worth serious consideration when: - The service history is complete - The engine passes inspection - The hull and deck are structurally sound - Electrical systems are clean and functional - The trailer is roadworthy - The price reflects age and condition In other words, the boat is a good buy when the condition supports the asking price. A well-kept used boat can deliver excellent value. A neglected one can become a long list of repairs. The difference usually comes down to inspection quality and maintenance history, not the model name itself. - Practical buying checklist for the 2017 AS 590 Open Before you commit, run through this quick checklist: 1. Review maintenance records 2. Inspect the hull for damage or repairs 3. Test all electrical systems 4. Check upholstery and storage areas 5. Examine the engine cold start and running behavior 6. Inspect trailer condition and tires 7. Look for corrosion in hardware and fittings 8. Take a sea trial if possible 9. Confirm title and ownership documents 10. Estimate repair costs before making an offer This simple process helps you avoid emotional buying. It also gives you a better sense of the boat’s real value. - Conclusion The 2017 AS 590 Open can be a smart, versatile choice for boaters who want an open layout and practical day-on-the-water usability. But like any used boat, the key is not just the model itself—it’s the condition, service history, and care it has received over time. If you’re shopping for one, focus on the engine, hull, electrical system, trailer, and signs of long-term wear. If you already own one, steady maintenance and smart storage will go a long way toward protecting performance and value. The best approach is simple: inspect carefully, maintain consistently, and buy with your actual boating needs in mind. If you want to keep learning, compare similar open boats and note what features matter most for your style of boating.