Boat buying question

[canadman]

I was going to post this in the Wellcraft forum but I wanted some objective opinions so I thought I'd post it here.

I have the opportunity to buy a 1995 Wellcraft 21 ft Excel bowrider in nice shape with a 4.3 i/o (put in new in 2003) on a 95 EZ Loader trailer.

Any opinions on this boat?

Also what do you think of the 4.3 liter engine? Is it enough power?

Thanks

 

[oops!]

Re: Boat buying question

the 4.3 is a reliable workhorse of an engine.

what is the weight of the boat?.....21 feet is a loooong tub.

if your up in the 2600 lbs area...id look at a 5.7

 

[cbavier]

Re: Boat buying question

Wellcraft is a good boat. But You need to hire a Marine survey before making a final decision. It also should have a Mechanical Survey and be Water surveyed.
There are several marine surveyor's that are listed through the power squadron or U.S. Coast Guard near you. Don't let the Marina hire the surveyor. YOU HIRE your own SURVEYOR. He will work for you. A boat is a major investment and a continuous one at that. They say a Boat is just a hole in a lake you pour your money through.

 

[tmh]

Re: Boat buying question

Wellcraft makes solid boats. These tend to be on the heavier side. Why would anyone have put a 4.3 in it aftermarket? I think that is most likely very underpowered on most ANY 21' boat but even more on a Wellcraft.

 

[Willyclay]

Re: Boat buying question

My son has an Ebbtide 19ft-2in bowrider with a 4.3LX, 205HP with four barrel carb. NADA says it weighs 2,600lbs. dry. It will almost run 50MPH on the speedometer with four adults onboard and full fuel. Struggles a liitle bit getting a 200lb. guy up on a slalom ski from a deep water start. Good luck.

 

[cbavier]

Re: Boat buying question

Canadman
You never said what Hp that Wellcraft boat is. My 4.3 Mercruiser, 185 HP will plane out at 43 Mph at 4800 RPM with four adults in it. My Boat is a Four Winn's Horizon 190 It's actually 21 Ft with the swim platform and outdrive. It's also very quick to get on plane.