Boats. boats, boats

[bsharpe]

Okay so I have a wild hair and think I might want to buy a boat. I grew up on a lake and enjoyed boats but have no experience on the buying or maintenance side (Dad did all that, he's gone now) so who knows a thing or two about boats? I'm thinking a cuddy, as spending the night out on the lake sounds good but want to hear what you guys think about different types of engines, what I might look for and look out for. How old of a boat is too old? Would like to be able to water ski and do some fishing.

Thanks

 

[zombie]

I dont know much about boats, but I would think a price range would definately help people that do know a lot about them give you better advice.

 

[Mav]

If you are looking at an older boat, take a socket set with you. Tighten the motor mount bolts and make sure the wooden stringers are not rotten. Check for floor that moves under your feet. Check transom for signs of cracking, possibly drain lower unit oil and check for metal shavings and or water. Check exhaust manifolds for cracks and leaking freeze plugs. Check for overheating and last time impeller was replaced. A cuddy is heavy. May not pull skiers great and typically have a deeper hull which translates to a taller wake. I prefer i/o motors. Inboard/outboard. The motor is inside and the drive is outside in the back. Quieter, 4 stroke and typically better on fuel but higher maintenance and initial cost. Outboards are completely outside the rear. Power head and lower unit. Easy for winterizing, maintenance is easy, but most are 2 stroke and LOUD. But typically cheaper initial purchase. I have an outboard ski boat, I would prefer an inboard v drive ski boat but hey they are expensive!

 

[bsharpe]

Yes I am thinking an older boat, maybe up to 8K. I like the idea of staying on the water but need to do more research on where I can go to do that.
Thanks for the input!

 

[Munch]

I just bought a 2007 Larson 18' ski boat n trailer for $10k. Under 100 hours on the boat!

[attachment=67574:name]

There's always a deal to be had, it booked out at 15k. Guy had medical issues, and needed it gone. So just be patient and look around...

 

[Balz3352]

I just bought a 2007 Larson 18' ski boat n trailer for $10k. Under 100 hours on the boat!

View attachment 20794

There's always a deal to be had, it booked out at 15k. Guy had medical issues, and needed it gone. So just be patient and look around...

Nice looking boat!

 

[Munch]

Thanks, ever make it upto Wisconsin, we can ski!

Solar powered lift and canopy was another 3k.

All in all, a great deal. We'll use it for 2 years, and likely make a couple $$ when we sell, or worst case break even.

[attachment=67576:name]