Title says it all. I have the chance to pick up a 96 Javelin 20 footer in excellent shape with the 175 Evinrude well maintained. I think I would be an idiot to let it go. Is it worth the price? Yes he is willing to put it on the water for a check out.  My main concern is reliability, so should I keep saving or pounce on this deal?

take it out on the water test everything.  make a list of what you find wrong.  Take it to a shop and have a compression test done and have them look the engine over.  If thats all good its sounds like a great deal to me.  I have a 95 Javelin fish and ski, it's a great little boat.

I think the 396 is a 18.5 boat. Either way probably one of the better boats made. I would go for It unless It's all to peaces.

take it out on the water test everything. make a list of what you find wrong. Take it to a shop and have a compression test done and have them look the engine over. If thats all good its sounds like a great deal to me. I have a 95 Javelin fish and ski, it's a great little boat.

This.

I've had two Javelins, and nothing but good times in both. That E-rude is a strong motor. Make sure to have the transom checked for integrity. That model year still had plywood construction. If everything checks out, I'd jump on it for that kind of money.

frogtog, the 389 is the 18' 10" hull rated for 175 hp.

You are correct Wayne.