VOLVOS do cost more to repair, but on the plus side they don't fail often if maintained with basic anode and fluid changes. Jackshafts aren't to bad, just watch for rust as most use a steel driveshaft, and keep the u-joints greased. A jackshaft gives you the benefit of a wide open cockpit for fishing, but an outdrive for economy and shallow running(not to mention a single duo prop setup will still manuvere decent at the dock).

Yea I'm not so worried about maintenance I am worried about the storied water ingestion problems those systems are known for, also the vibration issues with jack shafts.
Also I have not heard anyone say anything good about I'O's outdrives on this or any site.
I know they are often very efficient power wise but that is all awash to me as they are also the only system I know that will sink your vessel at sea if a rubber bellows splits. There is a fellow that had to run his 25 footer into the sand to keep it from going completely under, it was a new boat, literally on its first full fishing trip and the bellows had some type of fault in it. It split. the two bilge pumps could not keep up with the ingress of the water and she just made it, got beached by the coast guard barracks. That was something to hear on the radio.

I love I/O's they pay my bills thru the winter time. Seriously, years ago, an I/O was more dependable and user friendly than an outboard. Thats all changed in teh last few years. In fresh water, its up to your personal preference, but in salt, I wouldn't have an I/O. It would be inboard diesel or outboard only.

I am with you on the I/O Willy...they may be fine, but they kind of scare me.

My father in laws 25' Regal almost sunk one time because of a bellows issue. Of course it also floated with no issue for 12 years before that.

Here's a Dusky CC http://wilmington.craigslist.org/boa/3421775857.html

And a Bertram 28 w/ diesels http://wilmington.craigslist.org/bod/3475677709.html

Willy I hadnt been on much so didnt see this thread will now. I also havent read through the whole thread so i dont know if you are still looking at the Pursuit or not. However, I have been on a few Pursuits a 20 Cuddy, 24 Cuddy with twins and a 21 or 22CC cant remember. They are VERY popular around here and are good solid boats. The people I know that have owned them are all the type to only own nice things and not fool around with junk.

Worst I was in was the 24 with a strong head wind in 4-6'rs and she handled it like a dream. They are heavy so much like my 18 handle water like they are a little bigger than they are.

Now that there's a friend. :-)

Willy, I read what you said about docking solo, and it hit home. Being able to set off on a run and come home all on my own, day or night, with no assistance required is one of the things that keeps my in my V.

This is a great thread. I'm looking forward to the happy ending.

Reading SH's post gave me a light bulb moment...

Willy, I apologize for filling this thread full links to other boats...you were asking for opinions on the Pursuit.

Years back when I was shopping for a big boat, Pursuit was up there in quality with the best I looked at...if I recall correctly, even the bildge is gel coated.

I would have bought one but they cost so much more than even a Grady White back then that I just couldn't swing it.

You can't go wrong with that 24 CC Pursuit, clean and well kept, and when you wear out those Yammies, you can throw on a couple 150 4 strokes.

Bilges are gel coat.


I was wondering with all the other boats posts if you really hated Pursuits and what was I missing. LOL :nut:

I love my 23 parker. If engines meet your approval, I don't think you can go wrong with the Pursuit.

I know I/O's are problematic up north, and often forget how much more trouble they are for you guys up there. They tend to not do well in boats left in the water, and your colder winters tend to do a number on those rubber bellows. Nothing against the PURSUIT either. Wonder if you could get fishbones back from it's new owner?