Questions about possible Wellcraft Nova purchase

[rocket1968]

A boat is for sale near where I keep my boatr from a private party. Here are the details: 1984 Wellcraft Nova 23" mercruiser 350/260 with just under 1k hours.

I am aware of the age and hours and what to check for. The question is; He is stating the boat will max at 35-40 mph. The speedo is broken (and the guy is a mechinic go figure). Heck, my 19 ft boat with a 165 can hit 45 when set up correctly (less weight). Does that sound right? You would think it would have a higher top end. He didnt know what prop he was using.

He will need to come down to my price since I am not dying to replace a smaller boat with gas at 4bucks a gallon.

Note: I will not even ask if I can tow this boat with an explorer. (can I)?

 

[marine4003]

Re: Questions about possible Wellcraft Nova purchase

Rocket...
The Nova was my first boat..same year..same motor !!! Great Boat!!!! she'll do better than 35-40 more like 45-50,trimmed right. She is heavy and i don't know the towing limit for your truck, it'll pull it,but stopping is the problem she weighs about 4000# so i think your alright,but check the hitch rating ( class 3 is what you want ) and total tow limit for your truck, right now the fair price can range from 2-4k depending a great deal on condition,and with 1000hrs its almost time for a total rebuild,plus whatever shape the interior's in.But whatever you decide to do i will say its one of the finest boats ever built,its the predecessor to the Scarab, the true OffShore racing legend,just alot heaver,Good Luck.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Questions about possible Wellcraft Nova purchase

I towed my 1988 23' Wellcraft CC Fisherman with twin OB for a few years in flat Florida with a 1983 Explorer. Scared the crap out of me - and I have a twin axle trailer with twin disc brakes. I now pull it with ease with my 1999 Yukon.

 

[nova23zz502]

Re: Questions about possible Wellcraft Nova purchase

Watch rotted floors ans stringers!!!!!!!

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Questions about possible Wellcraft Nova purchase

nova23zz502, welcome to iboats. Please don't dig up old posts.