what do you suggest?

[stephenc8301]

i am wanting to buy a used boat. what is a good older boat model? should I get an i/o or outboard? I am new to boating and would appreciate everyones opinion. thanks.

 

[dave11]

Re: what do you suggest?

Get a 17 ft aluminum boat with a an (preferably 4 stroke) outboard. You should be able to find one at a reasonable price. The aluminum boat will be more forgiving during your learning curve. You won't have to worry about scratching the gelcoat.

 

[5150abf]

Re: what do you suggest?

Post what you plan to do most with the boat, if you want to ski, a fishing boat won't work, if oyu like to fish a ski boat won't work.
What you are going to use the boat for determines what kind you get.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: what do you suggest?

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. 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.