Hello all,

I am a first time buyer, well real soon, of a bass boat. I am pursuing a 2002 Triton Tournament Bass Boats model TR175 selling for $7,995.00. I know its an older boat but it appears(by posted pics) to be clean with some minor wear and tear on the dock bumper strip and deck carpet. The engine...well not sure if its a carbureted system or EFI. I would prefer EFI system for its reliability...but being new to the market am asking for your professional feedback to see if it is a good/fair price.  I am going to stop by later week to get my eyes on it. Anything else I should look at on this unit while there?

I truly appreciate and look forward to viewing all of your responses. Thank you so much!

First off, welcome to the forums.  Next, take the time and read some of the advice given in other topics on here of members buying or looking to buy their first boat.  As for your post, look over the boat, the trailer, and the motor.  Ask for maint. records, how many hrs, when was the last time it was in, where was it serviced, can I contact them to see the history of the motor?  Boat, ask to test drive the boat.  If the seller won't let you test it, find another boat to look at and walk away.  If they do, then run it, move around in it.  See how stable it is. What extras?  Is the trailer single or tandem?  Look at the deck hardware and lockers.  As you can see there are a lot of things to look at.  If possible take somene that is familiar with boats with you to look it over as well and see what he says.  You may be excited to purchase the boat and have blinders on and not see something.

TR175 is a good entry level bass boat, rated for 125 hp and usually is powered by 90-115 hp outboards.

A bass boat includes trolling motor, batteries, livewells, pumps both bilge and livewell, sonar units, the outboard engine, pedestal seats and trailer. TR 175's are rigged by the dealer so have no idea how this boat is set up. Powered by 115 hp OB the top end speed is about 50 mph.

Things to check, boat hull stress cracking, gel coat damage or repairs. The bilge should be clean and dry, no oil.

Engine, should have hour run meter, over 300 hours is too high. Check the prop, should be stainless steel.

Check the steering, gear shifter/throttle, should not have excessive play, it should be tight and firm.

trolling motor wiring should be 6 gage, all terminals clean, no corrosion.

Electronics, 14 years old could be a problem.

Ask if the boat was garaged, if not you may want to pass this up.

Tom