Ok so I finally got something I'm happy with!  As some of you know I have another topic on here about my 12' Jon Boat project but that ones done for.  I'm getting rid of that boat so maybe it will make the new owner a good project.

As for my new boat it is a 16' Starcraft Runabout.  It's got a 50 hp Evinrude that is steering whell controlled.  The boat is in excellent condition!  I paid $450 for the whole package(trailer included) and couldn't be happier!  It was dark by the time we got it back to the house so when I get up in the morning I'll take some pictures and post them.

You'll probably be a lot happier with that going off of what you had planned for that Jon.

I think so...it was just too good to pass up.  Plus it has 6 seats in it with storage under each one.  I'll never have more than 3 people in it but at least everybody can choose where to sit.  I'm extremely happy with it!

Congrats, and good luck with your new acquisition.  Sounds like a good, safe starter boat.

Congrats, you'll be much happier in that than the Jon boat. Post pics when you get a chance.

Glad you are Happy with your new boat.Good Luck and be safe.

I attached a few pictures of the boat.  The boats 16' with a 50 hp evinrude motor on it.  The bar thing sticking up in the middle is just to make the cover sit better for when it rains and stuff.  It's not attached to anything and I'll just take it out when I use the boat.

A little polish and that baby will be sweet!

It is in amazing condition for its vintage.  Can't remember the last time I saw one of those Evinrude Starflights or the cable and pulley steering.

Actually, I can.  It was in the 70s on my skiff. 

Just one suggestion.  If you haven't already done it, check the steering cable carefully for cracks, and make sure to grease the steering wheel shaft, and lubricate the pulleys.  Replace any component that is questionable.

Sunlight's UV rays can breakdown the plastic coating.  Once the coating cracks, moisture will enter, and rust the core.  It doesn't take much for the cable to snap under strain.  It will inevitably happen at the worst possible time.

I'd suggest replacing it with Teleflex steering system, but that would probably cost more than the boat. 

As long as the components of the current system are up to snuff, it will serve you well.

Also, check the fuel tank(s) carefully, or better yet, have them and the lines inspected by a technician.  The OMC motors were fed fuel by pressurizing the tank.  They made them that way for decades. 

You definitely do not want the fuel hose to spring a leak with the tank being pressurized.