Purchasing 87 Wellcraft Classic 180

[jstamatov]

I'm about to purchase this boat. It's been owned for 10 yrs by my auto mechanic who I know well. So, I know that this boat has been maintained very well. It's also been stored indoors during winter.<br /><br />My mechanic has made minor changes to 4.3L OMC motor, including holly carb, etc., with horsepower increased to approx. 220 or something like that.<br /><br />I would appreciate any feedback on this boat. Also are there any particular items that I should be on the lookout for.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[justright]

Re: Purchasing 87 Wellcraft Classic 180

Hi
I have a 89 Classic and think it's a great quality boat. Mine was also stored indoors during the winter and I think that is a major reason it's held up all these years. It's a great solid boat. I paid $ 2800 with trailer and would highly recommend the boat, I say go for it. Good luck.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Purchasing 87 Wellcraft Classic 180

Buying a boat

1st you need to decide what you want to use it for, fishing, cruising, or water sports.

2nd how many people adults, children you want on board of the average outing.

3rd outboard, inboard-outboard, or inboard power plant.

4th Budget, what you want to pay, and what you are willing to pay, when you find
Exactly what you want.

You can hire a marine surveyor, to inspect the boat, or you can do it yourself.

You are mainly looking for soft spots in the deck, transom, cracks, all signs of a rotten, under frame.

The motor should be clean, no spots where the paint is discolored, or pealing from heat, having run hot. (This part for outboard motors Compression should be atleast 100psi, and within 10% of each other,)
Spark on all cylinders, good pee stream, check lower unit for water in oil.

The overall condition of the boat will tell you a lot, as to how it has been maintained.

A 30 year old boat motor combo, may be in better condition, than a 3 year old.