83 force boat

[jozer5307]

I just recently recieved a 1983 bayliner with an 85 hp force engine on it. I got the boat free but it hasn't been driven in about 3 years and the head was left off of it. I took it to the shop to get fixed and they said that it would be $950-975 to fix it. They said they had to replace the stator, impelor, and various other tuneups for this price, plus replace the seals on the lower end. The upholstry and interior of the boat are new so the inside of it is really nice. Is it worth fixing this boat for this price or should I sell it as is and get another one? Remeber, I did recieve it free of charge from a family member so I haven't put anything into it yet and it use to run strong before sitting.

 

[roscoe]

Re: 83 force boat

Welcome jozer.

An estimate of $950 will turn into a $1900 bill in no time.

You said the head was left off the engine.
There must have been a reason why the head was removed, so I suspect there is more internal damage, like a warped head, broken rings, scored cylinder, etc.

New interior and upholstery? Why? I suspect it was not cared for properly and would be very suspect of that boat. Have an experienced mechanic inspect the boat/transom/stringers under the floor for rot. These boats were very susceptible to wood rot.

Another option, IF the hull checks out ok, would be to part out the motor on ebay, and buy a different motor.

Personally, I wouldn't stick more than $200 into that motor, and then only if I knew everything else was ok.

So, inspect the hull, then decide if you are gonna dump the motor, or the whole rig.

 

[spartanpele]

Re: 83 force boat

If you like the boat, junk the engine (part it out on ebay to help recoup some money), and sink that grand into a more reliable used outboard. Do not spend that kind of money on an outdated broken engine that will likely continue to give you headaches...

 

[jozer5307]

Re: 83 force boat

Yea, but is it worth it to pay $1200 more for another engine and then pay more money to to get it installed.
I could spend any easy $2,000 by doing it that way.
Wouldn't it be cheaper to let them fix it for $950 take it out for a couple of months, then sell it? I would think I would get my money back better that way. Then I could by a newer better boat.

 

[roscoe]

Re: 83 force boat

Wouldn't it be cheaper to let them fix it for $950 take it out for a couple of months, then sell it? I would think I would get my money back better that way.

Good Luck getting it fixed for $950, that is just the tip of the iceberg.

The first rule of boating: It always cost more than you think.
The second rule of boating: Everyone else underestimates the cost of parts and labor.
The third rule of boating: You NEVER get your money back.

You still don't know what condition the transom, stringers, or keel are in.

Sell it now.