Basshunter2k5 Posted May 4, 2005 Posted May 4, 2005 I have been looking for some time now in search of the perfect used bass boat. I am wanting a good, reliable, and fairly cheap bass rig. It seems like people are wanting an arm and leg for older bass boats as well as new ones. However after reading the forums here and talking to others....I have determined that finding a boat in my price range is possible. I was thinking in my situation that I would be better off buying an older boat with a newer engine than a somewhat newer boat that the engine could blow up at any point. Engines can get pretty expensive to replace...What kind of advice can you guys give me??? I really appreciate your help!! ??? Quote
jayhc2 Posted May 4, 2005 Posted May 4, 2005 How much are you looking at spending? You say fairly cheap, what do you mean? Just because the motor is newer doesnt mean its better I have seen guys blow there '04s while jimbob is still running the heck out of is '89. Be very selective and buy what you WANT just do not get in a hurry. Quote
Basshunter2k5 Posted May 5, 2005 Author Posted May 5, 2005 I was talking a about spending $4,000-$5000 and finding something dependable. What year range and type of boat would fit into this price range and be a good boat for the money? Thanks. Quote
jayhc2 Posted May 5, 2005 Posted May 5, 2005 Go to www.boattraderonline.com go to the search page type in bassboat next to key word and type in the price you are looking for I got 200 listings when I looked at it. Hope this helps. You should find what you want in that price range. Quote
Basshunter2k5 Posted May 8, 2005 Author Posted May 8, 2005 Thanks for the info!! What brands seem to hold up the longest as far as their quality and value? Also, I heard that the smaller the engine....the more durable it usually is. Is this true?? ??? Quote
jayhc2 Posted May 8, 2005 Posted May 8, 2005 Stick with brands that have been around a while. Ranger,Skeeter,Stratos, ect. As far as the little motor question I dont think so, its all on how the motor and boat were kept up. Remember compression and spark test on the motor. Crawl underneath the boat look at the bottom for cracks holes this kind of stuff. Quote
GobbleDog Posted May 8, 2005 Posted May 8, 2005 I bought a 16' fiberglass Bass Tracker with an 80 horse Mercury for $3,500 about 5 years ago. I love that boat. Somebody recently offered me a Ragin Cajun for $5,000. And I've seen a few other good deals for under $5,000 as well. So it can be done. If you go to a used boat dealership and find a boat that you like, I recomend you reduce the asking price by about $2,000 and make a pure cash offer right then and there. Most of the time, they'll take it. They hate having to finance people and are usually willing to sell it at a reduced price for cash. Quote
GobbleDog Posted May 8, 2005 Posted May 8, 2005 Remember compression and spark test on the motor. I second that. I wouldn't buy a boat without a compression test, no matter how good the deal seemed. Quote
jbh3 Posted May 8, 2005 Posted May 8, 2005 Take someone with you that knows boats when you go to look at the rig. Check the Coast Guard rating plate for max HP rating and avoid any rig that is under powered. Check the hull for stress cracks, dings or holes. Pay CLOSE attention to the transom area. Have someone pull up on the foot of the motor while you look for flexing in the transom. While your back there make sure the steering is not too tight or too loose. Make sure all electronics, guages, switches, lights, pumps, etc. work. Have the motor compression and LU pressure tested by a GOOD tech. Plan on having to have the engine tuned and the water pump and LU grease changed. The engine service could run $200-400. Do not over look the condition of the trailer and tires. You will probably have to service the bearings at the very least. Take all this into consideration and adjust your offer accordingly. Good luck with your search. Quote
Basshunter2k5 Posted May 9, 2005 Author Posted May 9, 2005 I really appreciate everyone's help... ;D I will keep you posted on what I find. Thanks, and good luck fishin' 8) Quote
basscat19 Posted May 10, 2005 Posted May 10, 2005 Basshunter It can be done there are good deals out there for 3-10 thousand dollars. I spent a year looking before I found my boat. And so far I've had 7 years of great service. Knock on wood!! Quote
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