Larson opinions wanted

[cichlid56175]

Opinions on older Larson runabouts wanted.
Say 1970-1975.
Enry level, good boay, well bilt or just plain crax ?
Thabnks as I am looking to finalize a purxhase and need your good opinions.
J

 

[Bondo]

Re: Larson opinions wanted

Ayuh,... Larsons are decent hulls,
But,... a 40 year old barge is probably going to be Rotten, regardless who built it...

 

[JimMH]

Re: Larson opinions wanted

Larson owner here but a new model. I grew up with a sixty's larson but I imagine it is long since rotted away. Even a boat kept in a covered storage for all these years will definitely have some issues. The Larson's of that error were well built boats but they were of built with that times technology. Whatever you do be sure to get ready to make if project if you go with that old of a boat.

 

[willamettejeff]

Re: Larson opinions wanted

Just finish rebuilding my new to me 16' 1965 Larson Valero at the end of last season and agree with others that boats as old as you are looking at will probably have a rotted floor and transom unless rebuilt at some point. Had to replace both on mine, but fortunately did not have to replace the stringers as they are fiberglass. Boat is better than when it was new now. And yes, boats of the era can be heavy as they were built what some today would say is overly thick fiberglass. Most of the bottom of my hull and bow is 1/2" thick with most of the remainder of the boat being 5/16 or so. Sure is a rugged sucker. I like that. My 1978 70hp Johnson will still push it along at a good 33 mph though and cruises nicely at 22 - 24.

Just be sure to check the floor and transom carefully. Check particularly around where the seats bolt to the floor as that is where the floor rot seems to start showing most often. Any dips in the floor is also a clear indication of rot.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Larson opinions wanted

Brand matters not on a hull that old. It's all about current condition.