Help please

[Steve 167]

1976 Starcraft tri hull. Volvo motor. Thinking about buying this from a friend for probably right around $900. Has not run in a couple years. I do not know a lot about boats, but am pretty good on mechanical. Thoughts?

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... Welcome Aboard,......

The issue I see is,.... The motor is obsolete, 'n gettin' tough to get parts for,.....

 

[lprizman]

If you can drive down the highway and throw $3K out the window and still smile....do it.
Boat Cost + battery + estimated cost to get running = $3K roughly
Boat in great running condition on trailer turn key is worth $2,500.00

A friend does not sell **** like that to a friend......

 

[Steve 167]

So really only worth the gamble if it’s free???

 

[lprizman]

Yup...not trying to be a downer...just advice.
Put a battery in it...fresh alternate fuel source...see if she fires....then sea trial after a good structural inspection and verify bilge pump works and plug is in...give it a go!!
Best of luck!!
Let us know how you do....maybe be great...which I'm hoping for!

 

[Lou C]

Boat looks to be in good shape. As noted the issue is parts availability and the difficulty in converting it over to a modern drivetrain (Old style Volvo, large transom cut out, won't take a modern drive system without fiberglass work). Check it all over for rot, if you find rot forget it. Really!
PS I think I see silicone around the transom mount, that means only a few things, leaks, rotted transom, etc. Proceed with caution, lest you wind up in the restoration forum asking questions.

 

[jerryjerry05]

The Volvo is the BEST drive out there.
Your Volvo is a good one but VERY expensive to fix.

One test: walk past the drive and push it to the left and right.
If it travels more than 1/4-1/2 in. That repair can cost 1-2K

I love Volvo's had 4 but I wouldn't buy one that old.
Good luck.
Get a newer model at least a 94 and up or get a Mercruiser
and ABSOLUTELY stay away from Cobra and old OMC