Boat Test Ride!!

[BuzzMan]

I'm looking at buying my first big bass boat, 1992 Champion, 18 foot w/ a 150hp Yamaha.  The seller is taking me for a test ride today, he is asking $6000

The boat has a brand new 2007 Motor Guide TM, new starting battery for the big motor, the carpet & seat look very good, also has 2 fish finders.  He is the 2nd owner of the boat.

What are some of the things I should look/check it make sure the boat is sound?

[harshman]

I would ask for a compression test on the motor, how old are the trolling batteries, any fiberglass repairs, any scratches showing fiberglass, all electronics ( including lights) work properly, have the bearings on the trailer ever been serviced, how often the motor was serviced and maintained... winter services...basic maintenance, how many hours are on the motor. If any of these items can't be answered or addressed be careful the owner isn't trying to hide something wrong.

Harshman

[cart7t]

Check the compression but those late 80's - early 90's ProV's were workhorses.  Very upgradeable BTW.

If it's a 18 footer it's probably a 184 like I've got.  Just check the transom and make sure it's sound.  That model is one of the great running hull designs of all time.  Drives like a sportscar.  It runs better with a 175hp.  Expect middish to upper 50's with the right prop.  

[BuzzMan]

Thanks,  How do I run a compression check??  This is all new to me becoming a owner, I usually fish non-boater.

Cart7,  Yes, that is what it is 184 with a 150hp.  What do you mean by "upgradeable"?

[cart7t]

The 150 ProV's are merely restricted 200hp motors.  You can spend around $1200 and buy a stage one kit from Hydra Tech marine (authorized Yammie rebuilders) and turn your engine into a 200.  That boat will easily handle it.

As for the compression test, if you're not familiar with doing it I'd advise spending the money to take it to a marine mechanic.

[fireandice]

It sounds like it should be a good boat. I'd have it checked out closely by someone who knows what to look for. That sounds like a decent deal if it is as sweet as you say, but I have a friend looking to sell a 1999 Ebbtide Dyna-Trak that is tourney-ready for the same money.  Just something to think about.  It never hurts to shop.

[BuzzMan]

Thanks for the tips guys!!

The test run went very will, we were out for 2.5 hrs and also got to do a little fishing in it.  The TM is brand(2007 in Apr.) new Minn Kota Max. 70 pond. it moved the boat very well.  All electronics lights, horn, fish finder, live well check out and are in working order.  Motor 150 Yah. with 3 blade prop.....With 3 people in the boat we got up to 57 mph, it felt like it could of gone a little faster but my wife us screaming ;D at me to slow down!!  I was really impressed at the hole shot the boat would do.  It also came with a boat & motor cover.

Trailer, all lights working and bearings were just pack in March 2007 and they have Bearing Buddys on them.  Trailer did have a few small rust stops but nothing major.

I bought it Saturday for $5200.  This is my first big boat and I hope to have a lot of good times with it!!  I will post pics later and when I figure out how to do it!!

[fireandice]

Sounds like a nice boat Buzzman.  I hope you enjoy it.  Champion makes one helluva nice boat and they hold their value well.  Good luck and tight lines my man.  Go get a 10lber.

[cart7t]

welcome to the Champion family!   8-)