5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

[HoosierPoppa5.0]

Hello I am thinking about buying a used Celebrity 19' Bowrider W/5.0 MerCrusier AlfaOne I/O. My question is what should I be looking for as to any known issues or common things to look for, when buying a boat like this? I have an older outboard boat, however never had an I/O.<br />The hull looks in great shape. Interior is dirty but in decent shape. Owner has it professonally winterized each year. Any tips would be awesome. Thanks for whatever anyone has.

 

[Don S]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

An indication as to what year would also be awsome. <br />5.0L Mercruisers with Alpha Ones are not all created equal.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

Originally posted by Don S:<br /> An indication as to what year would also be awsome. <br />5.0L Mercruisers with Alpha Ones are not all created equal.

Don,please expand on that statement a bit if you would.I have a pair of those 1988 vintage and now I am curious as to what you mean.Charlie

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

By the year I think he means gen 1 or 2...JK

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

Haut you are half correct. GEN 1 or Gen 2 Alpha is one difference.<br />Then you have Vortec engines after 1995, which should be considered an improvement over the non-vortec engines. At least they have more horsepower!

 

[HoosierPoppa5.0]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

OK sorry about not posting the year. I believe he said 1989. I have digital pics of the engine and the outdrive. I dont know how to post them here. I really know little about the boat and I/O's. I just need some pointers about what to look for "before" I buy the boat. Any red flags that I should be aware of. I know the guy I am buying from, but still an investment that is important. Any pointers

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

If it is '89 then it is gen 1.....<br />Some stuff for starters.....<br />Does he have maintenence records of what was done, when? Especially the u joint bellows...<br />How does the drive look? Corrosion? Any obvious leaks? Pressure testing would be good, but most people aren't gonna let you do that...The same for the engine....Compression test...<br />How about the power trim? Works good?<br />In fact check every switch & button to make sure everything is functioning properly.....<br />Lastly take it for a good hard test run & have a look at the engine/bilge for oil leaks & the oil dipstick for signs of water.....JK

 

[Fishermark]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

That's a good engine and outdrive combination for that size boat, in my humble opinion. Down here you have to worry about salt water and its effects on an engine and manifolds, etc. Not nearly as important in fresh water. Having said that, how does the engine and manifolds look on the outside? Nice and painted still or rusty?

 

[HoosierPoppa5.0]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

The top of the motor, between the valve cover and the intake have a some rust, I will check to see if any water is in the valve covers. All the stickers are intact, paint is worn with some rust, the rust seems to be localized on top of motor. I did not notice any on the sides. Two of my boss's went out last season on Lake Michigan with owner, both said the boat, started easaly, ran fine w/lots of power. That was the last time the boat was out. I admit the boat has a few problems like the up on the trim switch is broke but the trailer switch works. the interior is dirty w/ a few holes, but not that bad. If there is a way to post pics I will!! Outdrive has some discoloring and some wear, but looks intact. No obvious cracks or welds. The hull I am ok with, no problems. I know the boat needs a little TLC, but the drive train is all I am worried about. I can send pics. My email is hayesclan2@sbcglobal.net if you would like to see them. Just send me a e-link. I will send pics of engine and outdrive. I just dont want to get stuck with someone else's basket case. Thanx everyone.

 

[HoosierPoppa5.0]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

http://photos.yahoo.com/hayesclan2@sbcglobal.net <br />Ok this should get you there. Oh and by the way the price tag is 1500.00. Does this sound about right?

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

$1,500.00?.... Jump on it now! Drive looks good...Engine crusty but you should be able to get a few more years out of it before a repower.....JK

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

Cant buy much these days for $1500.Looks very nice!!! Try starting it up and letting it run on muffs for a while.Check oil before and after running and keep an eye on temp gage.Hopefully it runs out ok and it will be the deal of a lifetime for you.

 

[HoosierPoppa5.0]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

Thank you everyone. I was hoping that you all would feel that way about this deal. I have come to respect Iboats and everyone that contributes to this forum. You guys "ROCK" Happy sailing to you all. Thanx again everyone!!

 

[vampirefish]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

Sorry, started a new post!

 

[mkast]

Re: 5.0 MerCrus Alfa One info

$1500 is a very inexpensive price. Take some of the money you might be saving and have the boat surveyed before you make the purchase.