Newbie Needs Help Choosing Boat/Motor

[Codedog]

I am looking for an older (i.e., inexpensive...) used boat/motor. I would like any opinions on an '85 Larson 17' open bow with an '85 Force F85 motor that is supposed to have 277 hours on the meter (dash mounted). The vinyl in the boat is pretty bad, canvas top is in good shape. I haven't checked compression yet either. I have heard mixed reviews on the FOrce. I know it's out of production, but supposedly runs great and starts every time. Asking price is $2K. <br />Another boat is an 85 Gregor aluminum 15.5 ft with an '85 or '86 Johnson 25 (Seahorse), bimini top, Eagle finder & MinnKota 28 lb trolling motor (foot control). engine rebuilt last year. Asking price $3K. This is in the S.F. Bay Area. <br />Looks like there's alot of good info on this site. I'm asking up front this time - I tried buying a boat a few years ago and got burned really really bad, so I'm a bit overly cautious this time.<br />Opinions/Ideas are welcome!

 

[skier]

Re: Newbie Needs Help Choosing Boat/Motor

Ivanna Boatnow:<br /><br />Larson makes a good boat. Even if Force was a good motor, 85 hp on a 17' boat? Do you plan on doing ANY water skiing? Personaly I think 2k is too much, but I look for ability to two skiers of any size on a single ski.<br /><br />Hope this helps.<br /><br />Craig

 

[alcan]

Re: Newbie Needs Help Choosing Boat/Motor

Hi Ivanna<br />I don't mean to sound blunt, but the first thing you need to decide is; Do you want to go boating or do you want a boating project? If you want to go boating it's usualy less expencive to buy a better more expencive, race ready package. Buying used and older is OK, you just need to be very picky.Look for units that show pride of ownership.Well maintained, owner is happy and willing to demo. Also when looking at boats and motors, don't forget to look at the darn trailer! My opinion on that larson. If you pulled up to my house with it, I wouldn't let you unhook. Take your time, look around, you will find the right deal. Good luck.