What to look for in an '83 V20

[neckbone]

I have found a 1983 V20 Fisherman w/ an 87 Evinrude 150hp down the street from me. *Asking price is $3900. *I'd like to keep the boat for a couple years and then repower when Evinrude has a couple years on the V6 Etecs that are coming out later this year (or so I've heard). *What type of things should I look for w/ this year boat, aside from tapping the stringers? *Are there any specific problems I should look for? *Does this sound like a good price? *I'm not 100% sure what condition the motor is in, but the boat looks good. *The one problem is that it has bottom paint that would not be needed as I plan on trailering it. *Is that hard to remove and can the dull finish be brought back to life?

[macojoe]

well it seems you know about the floor and the hull and what to test? Don't forget to check the transom!! Lift motor up and grab from the bottom and try lifting and moving side to side. If there is movment then it needs a new Tarnsom.

I like to say I buy the boat not the motor, because IMO they always need work. So it is good that you want to repower down the line.

On motor you will want to check the lower unit oil for water, check the trim motor and all connections for oil leaking, START, make sure it is pumping water!!
This time of year take for water test, This will tell you the best!

Does it have a trailer?? What shape is it in?? Who makes it? A new trailer is a big ticket item to buy!!

$3,900 is a good deal if all is in useable condition!! Just rember, it not unlike a used car! In the way that you should have a few dollars around to fix the small things, they add up!

Good Luck!~! Lets us no what you do!! I am sure others will chine in here and give you more info!

[neckbone]

Thanks for the reply. It does have a trailer. It is a rather new double axle bunk trailer. I think it is aluminum. It does not have brakes, so I would probably need to add them soon as I pull w/ a Ford Explorer. From what I've seen, the trailer is worth at least a grand.

From what I've read on this site and others, the V20 looks to be a very good hull. I believe that if everything checks out and it doesn't need major structural repair, I may make an offer on it.

[bigshrimpin]

Neckbone,
MJ's right on . . . . just to add onto what MJ has already said.

Step on every inch of the floor and see if you can locate any soft spots (especially around pedestal seats / screw holes/ around rod holders).

Fuel tank?
I'm not sure about the 83 fisherman . . . I think they had an aluminum tank. Newer v20's had poly tanks - around 86 (I think). Anyway open up the bilge and try to detect any overpowering fuel odors or fuel at the bottom of the bilge.

Trailer sounds good - check condition of the axels, leaf spings (unless they're torsion axels) and tires.

you can replace the bearings and leaf springs later on. (can't be too picky for $3900)

On the engine -

Compression test - Ask a dealer what normal compression is for this engine. general rule is that the compression should be within 10% on all cylinders.

Lower Unit Gear oil - Water in the lower unit turns the gear oil into a milky color. If you are happy with everything else on the boat ask him if he'll let you change the gear oil.
When you drain the oil look for excessive metal filings or chips in addition to checking for the milky color.

Take it for a ride.

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- Expect to rewire the boat.
- lube or replace the steering and control cables.
- Drain plugs in the floor should be replace if they are original.
- replace fuel lines, bilge pump, lights, etc.
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Bottom paint will come off, but it's a lot easier to put on fresh bottom paint.

[neckbone]

Well, looks like I'm a day late. I believe that the boat I was looking at has been sold. Either that, or taken off the consignment lot for the Memorial Day weekend. I really liked the setup of the Fisherman. I'll probably keep my eyes out for a good deal on another one. Thanks for the help.