[Hoochee]

I posted some time ago that I had a nice 96 bayliner capri fiberglass with a 70HP force outboard. The interior is nice white/blue vinyl and there are few cosmetic dings. I hated the idea of tearing the vinyl, gouging the hull, or getting some nice fish slime/blood all over the interior. I almost had to crawl on my knees to use the vinyl rain cover. I used it in the interior and only on the lakes (5 consecutive days last year) for family picnics, tubing and knee-boarding. Problem is I really wanted to get out and fish more. Long story turning short, I have been looking for a more utilitarian aluminum fishing oriented boat I could still take the family out on, but primarily fish the Harrison, local lakes and the fraser... Maybe some downrigger days along ambleside..
I found an aluminum Lund model (16.5ft) with bowrider type split windshield and full stand up cover with side windows etc. 2000 90HP merc 4 stroke. Went for a test run today and it looks,sounds and runs good. More room and less pretty vinyl but stored in a garage.
It is riveted (I have read the pros and cons to both welded and riveted).
Any words of advice from anyone on what I should look out for or double check. The price is quite good and defiantly early season.
:beerchug:

 

[slamdunk]

well, I'd say the Lund has proven itself to be a great sturdy boat and if you say it was in good condition, no leaks etc. , I'd concentrate on the motor. That's where most of your problems (and expensive ones at that) would come from.

Anyway you could get a outboard mechanic to take a look at it?

 

[stone]

Regardless of what you go with, I have a feeling it will be nicer than anything I'll ever have on the water. ;D

 

[Hoochee]

Don't be so sure Stone... Once the cost of diapers is finished with (Both kids...blind projection of the future) you will have a pile more money for the new boat of your dreams...
Who am I kidding.. It will move from diapers to clothes to sports to college funds
Just borrow like the rest of us lemmings and buy something you will truly find your mid life peace in.. :beerchug:
Hoochee

 

[jetboater]

get a compression test before purchase... get the leg inspected an have a shop do a good once over ... typically around a $100.00 to look it over... but it could save you a pile...

 

[Hoochee]

Thanks TNTMarine..I had an outboard friend look it over and do a comp test on it. All cyl were good. Plugs looked even and good as well.
Ran the motor through a slow cycle of the whole RPM range and no problems.
I bought it two days ago and it is already waxed and vacuumed.
I had it out with my son today for a long haul on alloiette lake and all was well aside from a small mis when getting onto the step every few times..
New post probably best.
Cheers.
Hoochee