Used boat: Glastron, SeaRay or Chaparral

[aJohn79]

I did not know where to post this, so I will try here instead.
I am looking to buy a used boat for 5,000ish (non-OMC). I will be using the boat on lakes for fun and some skiing. In my area here are some of the options:

1998 18' Chaparral open bow
4.3 L mercruiser

18' 1990 SEA RAY 180BR
4.3 L mercruiser

1993 GLASTRON SSV 175
130HP MERC IO

Based on your experience, what are the pros/cons of each brand? any recommendations?


Thanks.

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Used boat: Glastron, SeaRay or Chaparral

Boat topics and questions, non engine forum.

 

[ovrrdrive]

Re: Used boat: Glastron, SeaRay or Chaparral

Normally I'd like the Searay but that one is getting a little old. If the Chaparel has low hours I'd probably go for it.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Used boat: Glastron, SeaRay or Chaparral

out of the choices, not knowing conditions, 1998 18' Chaparral open bow
4.3 L mercruiser. the glastron is underpowered.

 

[aJohn79]

Re: Used boat: Glastron, SeaRay or Chaparral

Are Chaparrals good boats? Is the Merc 4.3L a reliable engine?

 

[cmcpherson]

Re: Used boat: Glastron, SeaRay or Chaparral

Get the boats checked by a professional, they are all quality and the wear and tear needs to be evaluated by someone who knows. The Glasstron is not underpowered, I had a 3.0 18 foot Sea Ray for years that I skied behind many times with 7 people on board. FYI, I am 6'2" and weigh about 255, if it can pull me out of the water with a full load, you should be fine. The 4.3 is a great engine, but the 3.0 is an absolute tank and will run forever if cared for properly. This is a topic that has been discussed over and over around here. If you want to go 50 MPH you are not going to get there in the 3.0, but with gas prices right now...