Need boat buying advice!

[Tyannt]

Currently checking out smaller checkmates; 16.5, 17ft, maybe 18ft if total pkg doesn't exceed my Honda CR-V 1500lb towing capacity. For use in smaller Ponds/Lakes on Cape Cod and occasional browsing in ocean bays when it's reasonably calm..



Seems Exciters, Predictor's dominate the smaller crafts. Within my towing capacity at least!
Can't decide if i should "within the same price range" opt for a bowrider with a 135 Merc, or a predictor with Merc 115, or THINK it's a Predictor with a Merc Black Max 175! The bowrider is double the price of the others but in VERY good condition.

I know my own intended use should dictate but have thoughts that by concentrating on the motor i could apply it to any future boat if i didn't like what i initially bought, or, went bigger at some point.


Tough call i suppose, Lol but putting it out for feedback!


Appreciated

 

[karzrus]

1. Bowriders are easier to sell because they are in higher demand in this size of boat, so the price reflects that.
2. In a used boat always buy the one in the best condition. It will be much cheaper in the long run.
3. You can never have too much power on a boat if you have a choice and the hull is rated for it, buy the one with the bigger motor.
4. Unless you get the boat for free, find a shop that is good and have any boat purchase fully inspected before you finalize the deal. If you sped $200 to find out the boat is rotten and you don't buy it...That will be the best money you ever spent to not buy something.

 

[Hack]

2. In a used boat always buy the one in the best condition. It will be much cheaper in the long run.

4. Unless you get the boat for free, find a shop that is good and have any boat purchase fully inspected before you finalize the deal. If you sped $200 to find out the boat is rotten and you don't buy it...That will be the best money you ever spent to not buy something.

^^^ Absolutely these two items (along with the other advice). Just for info: The dealer I bought my last boat from charges $140 an hour flat rate. And IIRC, $160 an hour for boats over 10 years old. Labor is expensive.

 

[Tyannt]

Two boats I've come across:

Both 1983 Checkmate Predictors.

1) 16.5ft Merc-115 BlackMax, new stator, power pack, waterpump. Power trim,updated steering and built in fuel tank. Nice condition trailer.
2) 16.5ft Merc-175 BlackMax, 4" aluminum jack plate, believe new head gaskets, foot controlled trim and shifter, Dual no-feedback Teleflex steering, Rule stainless shaft bilge pump, New transom marine plywood sealed with the west system penetrating epoxy in 2017, Floor, seat pedestals and stringer replaced 6 yrs ago, water pressure, volt, tach and fuel guages. (Splash well delete, rear bench removed and rear deck extended so basically only 2 seater now. Seller tells me was done due to motor size..water would occasionally come up over rear deck if slowing too quick) ( water intakes on 175 sealed and now pickup is only the front of the cone...was advised not to let motor drag on bottom or would suck up sand/dirt!! )


In this case, should i opt for the 115hp boat in spite of the bigger motor and extras on the other, or take the 175Hp boat, keep the 175 for future use and repower with smaller motor? I like the fact the 175 has had stringer/floor work, just not that it's a 2 seater now; no room for the dog! Lol



I've not seen these in the water but have seen engines running.