V-20 Steplift

[gravesj]

I am new here. Looking to buy a boat in the next couple of years. I want to know more about the steplift and this seemed like the place for that. I will use it with the family on the ocean and lakes. For fishing and skiing. So here it goes..

How long have they been made?

Are they good on the ocean?

Are they a good all around use type boat?

What engine/outdrive combo would you recommend (i/o..o/b..HP..etc.)

Are parts hard to get?

What kind of maintenance does it need? (For an average grease monkey)

What size and model does it come in?

I know it is alot of questions for a newbie but I like to research very well before I buy. Thanks for all the help.
Oh yeah I live in Ventura Ca. 8)

[rb437]

Gravesj, Welcome and you have found an excellent source for the answers to those questions and many more you haven't thought to ask yet. Some of your questions are kind of general and are therefore hard to answer. I'll try to answer a few here, but let me suggest that you use the search function, browse through past topics, and check out the galleries. You will find the answers here as none of these are new questions.

1. I have a 1989 V20 that is a 20th anniversary edition. The v20 was produced (later versions were the V21) until the mid 90's.

2. As good as a 20 ft boat gets in the ocean but there's no replacement for common sense and experience.

3. Yes!

4. Personal choice plays a large part here. Outboard on a bracket with a full transom seems to be the top choice here.

5. For what?

6. Nothing that most boats don't need

7. 20' 6", V20 is the model, check the Wellcraft site for specs.

[TheTinMan]

Welcome! This and the "search" function ought to get you started.


http://www.wellcraftv20.com/gallery/view_album.php?set_albumName=album01

[msbhammer]

Theres nothing better then the v-20. As a new first time boat owner myself for a few months, for the last few years, I have always been drawn to the v-20. The prices are right as well.

[reelapeelin]

One of THE best aspects of the V-20 is it's versatility...mine is a big-lake striper boat, in-shore/close-shore fishing and recreational tow-boat for the kids...

V-20s gonna offer "as good as it gets'' capability for a 20' ocean boat, BUT, like rick says, common sense and experience will rule or lose the day...the trick is bein' around long enough to gain the experience...

The inboard/ outboard question is personal choice...I like outboards...I think amount of time/ maintenance has a lot to do w/ your motor choice...

Look in the Gallery...spend time there as it will show just about every configuration of a V-20 ever devised

[RobsTV]

It would be cool if there was a locked FAQ sticky (with links to important threads and websites), at the top of forums detailing specifics on the various models. I know it would have helped me several times, and could have saved a lot of time.

[Blue_Runner]

Old brochures for nearly every year make/model of Wellcraft boats, including the V-20 are stored in the Gallery under History and Vintage Photos.

This can be helpful in identifying year models and such as well as gaining general knowledge about the V-20 and what it is all about.

I think its the best all around mid-sized boat. Easy to tow, launch, and handles big big water like nobody's business.

[Blue_Runner]

...and raises fish too ;D

[macojoe]

V20's have been around from late 60's to the mid 90's!!