Another Boat Advice Thread...

[lmoore]

Wanted to get some opinions. I'm looking at getting a new boat this spring, replacing my trusty old flatbottom I've spent the past year in. I have right around 8k in cash to spend. I found a boat advertised in a nearby town that interests me a little bit.

It's a 1988 Ranger 364V with a 1998 Evinrude 150 on it and he's asking a negotiable $3k. In talking with him, he hasn't had the boat out in 2-3 years, but it ran well at that point. Hasn't had it compression tested since he decided to sell it. The carpet needs redone, and I can get a pre-cut kit for $350, so it would just that plus my labor. Hull appears in good condition in pictures, and he says it is solid.

My biggest fear is the motor. I asked if it was a Ficht since I knew they had some problems with the late 90's 150s. He says it isn't a Ficht, but didn't offer what it was. I wasn't aware they made another model, does anyone have more knowledge of 'rude motors of that era? Also, in the case it ends up being a Ficht when I go to look at it, should I basically consider that a deal breaker if he can't provide a history of the motor? I'm sure some or even the majority of the Ficht's were fine, but I'm hesitant to jump in without knowing for sure.

[mc6524]

Evinrude did make a a 150 motor that was caborated in the 90's. If its not a Fichte then my guess is that might be it. I would have preferred fuel injected, but if the boat is in that good of shape it may be worth it. Worse case is that you may need to overall or rep,ace the motor in the next few years and depending on the model a 150 may be fairly reasonable. A new Yamaha should run you about 12K

[slonezp]

I'm not sure what year they stopped making the VRO, but if it is, be wary of the VRO system if it is still operational, you will have problems with it. If it is no longer operational it would have been bypassed/retrofitted and you will have to premix oil and fuel.

[Big Bassman]

There are a lot of really nice bass boats around for 8K! Check your local craigs list and don't be afraid of ebay either. Do your homework and you should be able to find something to your liking! Good Luck

[B@ssCrzy]

If you have doubts about the motor I would walk away!!  For 8k you should be able to find a really nice boat with a motor you can have confidence in.  Don't risk it.  A bad motor is a money hole that will take all the fun out of your boat.

[Shane J]

Take your time with this purchase, and you will find a great boat in that price range, that will last you for years, and be a huge step up from a flat bottom. You will probably find something newer than the one you mentioned, probably between 17'-18', with a solid, reliable 150 on it. Good luck with your search, and just remember to have a boat guy check out the motor before you buy.

[lmoore]

Thanks for the advice guys. I'm definitely considering other boats. The reason I'm looking at this one is it would allow me to put some cash towards some student loans I'm paying off. If I decide to look at this one, I know a very good mechanic in the area and ill see if he can come along.

[lmoore]

Couple more I'm looking at. Anyone have strong opinions of a 96 Johnson venom 200 or a 93 mariner mag 3 150?

[lmoore]

Going to look at one this weekend, any opinions appreciated beforehand.

1996 Champion 191

200 hp Johnson Venom

2007 Minnkota 80# Trolling Motor

Humminbird 781 SI

Notes some minor imperfections due to use, tough to see in pictures.

Getting rid of the boat because he got another one. Hit a wingdam on the river last fall, so he had the lower unit gone through when he decided to sell, all in good shape mechanically, some welding done on the scag and the prop was replaced.

Asking $8000, book appears to be about $8500 boat/motor/trailer.

Any thoughts?