2003 Bay 185 with a 4.3 - Any reviews?

[Mscanon99]

Hi All,

After several outboard boats, I am very close to moving on a 2003 Bayliner 185 with the 4.3. The boat has been serviced every year...not fully winterized as I undersand the process.

It has the fiberglass lined cockpit with the carpets and the bigger motor, my two key interests.

What do these boats do as far as top end? What pitch prop is usually used, and/or what is the top RPM range?

Sits on a Galv. trailer, overall nice shape, whats it worth today?

Thanks

Mike

 

[sleeper]

Re: 2003 Bay 185 with a 4.3 - Any reviews?

A 185 with the 4.3 will run really good. My 195 that is a hair longer and heavier with the 4.3 will run 50+ mph easily. Mine came with a 23 pitch prop, but I put a 21 pitch on it to bring the rpm right up to the max recommended at 4800.

I am not sure what it is worth. We bought ours new last year. I don't know the used market very well.

 

[makersmark052]

Re: 2003 Bay 185 with a 4.3 - Any reviews?

i have a 2001 185 with 4.3, i paid 11,000. Its great no complaints it could pull up my 265# buddy with ease. If you have any specific questions shoot me an email jrdnfoto@gmail.com

 

[garry454]

Re: 2003 Bay 185 with a 4.3 - Any reviews?

The 185 with the 4.3 is a freaking ROCKET!!! On a good day, low weight, you will be hugging near 60mph!!

I have the 3.0L just because I had no need for the bigger motor, but know those who have had that same set up as the one you are looking at..... plus you said f/g liner - very nice!! That is the biggest oops that I did when I ordered my boat..... really wish I would have ordered the liner.... oh well, live and learn.

Good luck if you decide to pull the trigger on it.

 

[Capt. Duck]

Re: 2003 Bay 185 with a 4.3 - Any reviews?

I have this exact setup. I have owned it since brand new. I have no complaints about it. I know people complain about Bayliner, but as for me i am very pleased. I can pull 2 teenage boys on a tube and still do about 45+ MPH. And these boys weigh about 150 each. And that is with 3 people in the boat as well.

When not towing and everything is right i can zip along at about 50-55 with no problem. This has been an excellent boat to me. Just keep up with the proper maintenance and it will last. Hope this helps.

The Capt.