Mid 80's Bass Buggy???

[MASTERBrian]

I have a neighbor that is looking to sell, what I believe is a mid 80's bass buggy pontoon. I've been a bit interested in possibly buying a pontoon, but also leery about whether it is for me or not, I currently also own an 86 Ranger Fish/Ski boat, but it's a bit small for the family and friends.

I believe this boat is about 20-21' with an Evinrude 50hp on the back. The motor supposedly needs a bit of work, but I'm hoping nothing major and have another thread going about that. The price is $1300, being as I'm a good friend and he just wants to get rid of it. Pontoons are solid, but the interior leaves a bit to be desired in my opinion, so I'd possibly look at replacing it. I'm a bit curious is there anything in particular to look at as far as the pontoons, etc, before buying one of these? As I said, I'm new to pontoons, but have been around other boats my whole life. It looks like these in fairly nice condition sell for around $4500 and up, so putting a couple grand in it should still leave me setting ok, right???

On a side note, I'm also a bit interested in maybe installing a slide for my kids if there is room, if anyone has any input on that. I have younger kids, 4 & 8 and am looking for something they can tube, possibly learn to water ski, and just enjoy. I figure if I like, I'll use this as a stepping stone to a bigger pontoon/tri-toon. If not I don't see loosing anything on it.

 

[bav/270w]

Re: Mid 80's Bass Buggy???

I used to have a 1990 20' bass buggy with a 60 hp evinrude. It would max out at about 20 mph and would pull me up on skis with my wife and three kids on board. I probably went 225lbs back then. If motor only needs minor work; tune up, water pump, etc. And the tubes themselves don't leak, I don't think you can go wrong for $1300. Heck, I might even be interested in that one.

 

[DMontana]

Re: Mid 80's Bass Buggy???

I have a 1988 bass buggy with a 70 Johnson on it, and they are good boats. Aside from the toons themselves, I would check to see how solid the floor is, I just replaced mine early last year. Also look at the condition of the furniture. That's next on my list, but it is expensive. I had to replace my helm when I did my floor because it was made of wood and pretty much collasped when I removed it.