Doing Research

[Chief Schuh]

I am in the middle of doing research to buy my next boat. I am currently in Missouri but will be moving to the Gulf in 5 years. I want to buy now when prices are low but want a boat that can be used here and taken to the gulf for near shore/off shore. I have noticed a near fanatical loyalty from V20 & 21 owners so there has to be something there. I have personally never seen one but am very interested. Which engine setup is best single OB, twins or IB? Is there a big difference in the strength of the hull between newer or older models? I have lots more questions but will start with these 2. Thanks:beer:

[Mac_Attack]

Welcome to WellcraftV20.com. Yes we are a loyal group. My own experience started in 1985, that is when I first noticed the V20s. They are a strong,dry, and sturdy ride. I did not buy in 85 but remembered the V20 and bought my 90V in 2004. I prefer an outboard namely an Evinrude E-tec. An outboard gives you more space inside. As for 0ne or two engines I'm a Great Lakes fisherman and really don't see the need for two but I do still carry a kicker for insurance. Offshore in the ocean I would think you'd want two but a lot of guys here fish offshore with only one but I believe they go out in a group of boats. The fiberglass liner is great for wash down after a day fishing. The 21 is basically the same hull only with the outboard mounted further away from the transom. I'm having a senior moment looking for the proper term. The V20 is a great boat. More knowledgeable guys will tell you more. Good Luck Billy Mac :beer:

[reelapeelin]

Welcome to the board, Chief...If I were looking for a new V20/21 today, I'd be looking for one no older than an 80's model...late 70s is when they converted the hull to self-bailing, added flotation and put the gas-tank below the floor where it's supposed to be...love my old '74, but improvements mentioned made it a much more seaworthy and safer boat...beyond that, as w/anything used, you'll have to take each individual one as you find it...I've looked at 21s I wouldn't have and 21's I'd give my left nut for...same w/ V20s.

Describing the perfect scenario would go something like this...solid hull w/all factory items present and in good shape...hull would be FULL TRANSOM and I would have enough $$ to add a bracket and new or good used outboard..this setup optimizes the room in the boat and gives you a high wall at the stern to keep Mother Ocean out...won't mean much in Missouri, but will be important when you get to the Gulf...if buying new outboard and could afford, small block 200 HP E-Tec like Lumberslinger put on his would be EXCELLENT choice for weight/HP...

Short of the above suggestion, there are many good used 20s and 21s out there and searching one out will be a great adventure...suggest don't get in a hurry and don't fall in love w/one til after you buy it...look thru the Gallery...it may be helpful...

Good luck and keep us posted on your progress...RAP

[cterrebonne]

yeah defintaly go 80's at least my 79 is not self bailing. i will be running twins on my boat withing the year so i will have some info when the time comes.

[Chief Schuh]

Thanks for the input sor far. There seem to be some great deals on usedboats.com. There are a 95 & 96 V21 that look real interesting

[Mulv80]

yeah defintaly go 80's at least my 79 is not self bailing. i will be running twins on my boat withing the year so i will have some info when the time comes.

I have had (2) 79 V-20's and both have been self bailing :head:

[reelapeelin]

I have had (2) 79 V-20's and both have been self bailing :head:

His scuppers are clogged...

[cterrebonne]

I have had (2) 79 V-20's and both have been self bailing :head:

my deck drains but into the bilge. if they had scuppers at one time they did a good job at making them appear not to be there anymore. my boat was also a conversion from i/o to o/b

[RWilson2526]

http://www.usedboats.com/boat-ad/display/ad_id/1831799

Is this one of the ones you are looking at on usedboats.com? Looks like a good one.

[THEFERMANATOR]

Most of the outboard boats were self bailing from 78 on, the I/O's were not self bailing until the mid 80's. The sea-drives also became self bailing about the same time as the I/O's did. Around 79 or 80 they went to the 60 gallon tank, the 76-78's had a 48 in the cuddy models. Center consoles from about 76 or 77 had the 60 gallon tank. There all 8 foot beams, and 20'6" hull length. The V21 has the built in bracket and that is how they got the extra length and achieved some extra interior space. If I had the money, I would buy a V21 and repower with a 140-175 SUZUKI or a 200 small block ETEC. Add on a set of BENNETT trim tabs and get an enclosure built for it.

[nipper]

That V21 on Usedboats.com is a nice one. I really like the cockpit coaming pads.

[Chief Schuh]

I already got an email back from the seller. They have an offer/deposit but it doesn't look real firm. They said they nwould let me know. You folks have been a lot of help. Thanks!:beer:

[reelapeelin]

http://www.usedboats.com/boat-ad/display/ad_id/1831799

Is this one of the ones you are looking at on usedboats.com? Looks like a good one.

Walk around on the floor real good checking for soft spots...as you would any preowned boat...