Mid 80s to mid 90s Fiberglass Boats

[Mainiac Boater]

I am still in the market for a skiing recreational type boat. For the money I am currently willing to spend, it appears I will be getting a boat in the mid 80s to mid 90s range and about 17' to 19'. During this time period, are there any particular brands to stay away from. My several week search has had me investigating, calling, inquiring about Crestliner, Glastron, Sea Ray, Bayliner, Celebrity, Renken, Four Winns, and on and on. I have heard not so good things about Bayliner, particularly with Force engines. Are there any particular brands of boat and or motor to be leary of in this timeframe.

I also realize that condition plays a large roll in my question but I am talking generalities here.

 

[25thmustang]

Re: Mid 80s to mid 90s Fiberglass Boats

Most people will say, avoid anything with an OMC driveline. Avoid any Mercruisers 470 or 3.7. As for the hull of the boat, look down below at the stringers, floors, tansom and bulkheads.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Mid 80s to mid 90s Fiberglass Boats

Agree with 25th. Not so much hulls you gotta avoid but obsolete powerplants. Chrysler/Force outboards, OMC sterndrives, Merc 470 sterndrives. You want a solid deck and transom. ANY soft spots in the deck could be indicative of rotten stringers below.

 

[airdvr1227]

Re: Mid 80s to mid 90s Fiberglass Boats

Yep. Stay away from those nasty OMC's. Buying an older boat with one of those drives would be a mistake.

Enjoying my second season on the water in my mistake.

I'm kidding really. In the price range you're in you'll be purchasing a very used piece of equipment. Check it out good, or have someone do it for you. After you own it you have to treat it like what it is...an older piece of machinery. If you beat the hell out of it you'll be spending money fixing it.

 

[Mainiac Boater]

Re: Mid 80s to mid 90s Fiberglass Boats

Thanks for the info...
Wish me luck in my search.

 

[seabob4]

Re: Mid 80s to mid 90s Fiberglass Boats

If you really get into skiing/boarding, look at an older Ski Nautique...