ibefishing Posted March 13, 2015 Posted March 13, 2015 So I'm looking for a bass boat and my budget is 8k tops. I've noticed that my choices are limited at that price point. I found a 1999 Skeeter sx186 with a Yamaha motor. I think it looks great. Other than getting it checked out by a reputable mechanic, should I be worried about the age of the boat? I would like to keep it for awhile. Thanks, M Quote
Super User WIGuide Posted March 13, 2015 Super User Posted March 13, 2015 As long as it was taken care of it should last you a good while. Quote
sprint61 Posted March 13, 2015 Posted March 13, 2015 I have a 94 model boat it has been tooken great care of and still looks great. Quote
ibefishing Posted March 13, 2015 Author Posted March 13, 2015 Do any of you guys have experience with the 99 Yamaha vmax motors? Reliability issues? Quote
BaitMonkey1984 Posted March 13, 2015 Posted March 13, 2015 I have a 2001 Ranger R81vs with 150 yamaha max 2 stroke. I bought it 4 years ago and have not had any issues with it whatsoever. It was properly maintained by the original owner and I baby it as well, doing all scheduled maintainence than some. It amazes me how many people skimp on changing the water pump every two years because of the cost $300.00. If you don't like spending money on your boat, then why would you risk such a vitally important piece of a 20k motor. I just don't get it. If you take care of this motor, it will serve you well. I would get it thoroughly checked out for compression and other issues prior to buying to ensure that it is worth the investment. Then, it is up to you to keep her running great, synthtethic oil, seafoam, marvel mystery oil all have kept my engine running strong. Best of luck. Quote
stepchild Posted March 13, 2015 Posted March 13, 2015 I actually have a '98 Skeeter SS90 with a Yamaha. Bought it brand new and am still using it today (making this the 18th season I will use it). With regular maintenance and a little TLC, the boat should last you a long time. Quote
Super User SoFlaBassAddict Posted March 13, 2015 Super User Posted March 13, 2015 It amazes me how many people skimp on changing the water pump every two years because of the cost $300.00. 300 bucks for a water pump? I have got to believe you're having that done by somebody else. Simple things like changing a water pump on an outboard are good skills to have. Skimping is one thing, but being able to save money is another. Quote
Super User SoFlaBassAddict Posted March 13, 2015 Super User Posted March 13, 2015 On 3/12/2015 at 7:50 PM, ibefishing said: So I'm looking for a bass boat and my budget is 8k tops. I've noticed that my choices are limited at that price point. I found a 1999 Skeeter sx186 with a Yamaha motor. I think it looks great. Other than getting it checked out by a reputable mechanic, should I be worried about the age of the boat? I would like to keep it for awhile. Thanks, M Do a little research on the model you're looking at. Find out if it had transom issues, prone to stress cracks, etc etc. Quote
BaitMonkey1984 Posted March 13, 2015 Posted March 13, 2015 Yes that is correct I am having a professional do the work. Also, unfortunately there is only one marina in the area so they can charge what they wish. I am somewhat mechanically inclined, however have not been around boat motors except for the past 7 years. I have no problem ripping apart my 7.5hp on my john boat however, I simply cannot afford to replace my 150hp on the bass boat- so to play it safe all work is done by a professional. Quote
sprint61 Posted March 15, 2015 Posted March 15, 2015 A water pump is a very very very easy change. I'm sure you could find a video showing how to do it and save a lot of money. Takes about 30 minutes. Quote
Al Wolbach Posted March 15, 2015 Posted March 15, 2015 Do any of you guys have experience with the 99 Yamaha vmax motors? Reliability issues? I have a 98 225VMAX on a 20' Champion. I have had no problems with it at all. Routine maintenance is all that has been required except for fuel pumps. Mine has 3 fuel pumps that need replacement/rebuild every 5 years. Sounds bad, but it isn't. Cost about $150 and an hour of time. I change water pumps about every 2 years. Change plugs every year, fuel filter/water separator filter and lower unit oil, that's about it. I bought it new and it runs great today. That's the plus, gas usage sucks, that's the minus.......I did replace the lower unit and prop about 3 years ago after I hit a submerged rock pile. Has been a great engine Quote
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