1974 Cobalt 18

[mbohnenk]

I've been around boats all my life but when it comes to purchasing one and knowing what to look for and stay away from I am clueless. Just wander you all's 2 cents worth of advice on the possible purchase. looking at a 1974 Cobalt 18 188hp stern drive. I have not looked at it in person only pictures so I wanted to do some homework before I go look at it. The interior looks good. ( replaced floor and seats and everything works). Is there anything to look for when it comes to abuse or things that are wearing out to look for? Hope that made sense. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[mbohnenk]

Re: 1974 Cobalt 18

Here is the listing:

This is a 188hp stern drive with 1.65 gears and 21 pitch prop. Everything pictured is included in price, plus more stuff.

THE GOOD... The V8 engine starts right up and runs well without stalling. It will pull up your fattest skiers and tow many tubers. Mechanically feels good and sound. The floor is solid with new carpet. You can put this boat on the lake right now. Included are 4 good ski vests & 2 standard jackets, 2 new tow ropes (1 bungee), 2 sets of older skis, a massive 1-4 person tube, and an extra lower unit.

THE BAD... I "restored" this thing myself with no experience. I laid new wood (cca) and spray sealed over the existing deck, which is incorrect process, but works very well. The seats are old, but I replaced the rotted wood and made them functional. There is a small "mystery leak" that I can't find to save the world, so I installed a backup bilge pump, which does it's job well. It's an old boat, so expect surprise maintenance fun and dry time.

THE UGLY... I spent many hours and dollars on this project, only to find that I got more enjoyment out of fixing this boat than I did dragging a bunch of kids to their deaths on the water (not a boater). So I'll take the loss on this one and call it good.