New Member, Quick question.
 

Hi there guys. Found my way over here via the Classic Mako forum to ask a couple quick questions about a boat I am looking at. Found this on craigslist the other day. 1982 18 Fisherman (I think) with a newer merc 150. I appears to have been restored at some point and a bracket and closed transom was added. I emailed the dealer and he said that it had new stringers and transom so I would assume the floor is either new as well or still in good shape. The biggest question I have is the addition of the bracket. I know on some makos when a bracket is added if the gas tank and batteries are not relocated they can lose self-bailing ability. Thanks alot!

http://wilmington.craigslist.org/bod/3544765322.html

That is actually a good question, I have never seen a 18 with a bracket. I would be apprehensive for those same reasons.
There will be only one way to tell for sure, go for a ride and see how she drifts and sits at rest.
Too many variables, how far a set back on the bracket, flotation bracket? and most important size and weight of the motor.

I will agree with Willy. Seatrial it. Get a buddy to go with you and y'all let the broker run the boat and move around the boat and see how she acts. definitely put some weight on the stern while cruising.

Thanks for the reply guys. I'm probably going to go look at it either this afternoon if they are open or if not probably wednesday. Will let you know how it goes.

I remember seeing a bracketed 18 Fisherman at a buddies house. I just text him and he said it rides sweet and drafts 8 to 10 inches of water. He has a 135 Johnrude on it. Batteries are in the stern and fuel tank is under the console which is where Wellcraft put all of them. no complaints.

WELCOME!!!

I got here the same way you did....been over on ClassicMako for years!!

My 20 has a bracket. Sat lower with the Yammy 4-stroke. Being slightly heavier in the stern keeps her in the pocket more if that makes sense.....

Alright guys, thanks for all the input. Went and looked at the boat after work and needless to say I was slightly disappointed. The boat was in decent shape, it had been used, which i didnt mind. The problem came with the transom. At the top of the transom in line with the bracket bolts, was cracking, on both sides. (see pics). The guy at the yard said there was a soft spot in the floor too. Running full steam away from this one, not worth the time or money. The price would have been a little steep even without those issues
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http://i618.photobucket.com/albums/t...ps99fab91b.jpg

http://i618.photobucket.com/albums/t...ps9e7cc362.jpg

You did the right thing. That's Trouble with a capital T. There are lots of other V's out there.. you just gotta look. Getting a boat is a lot like getting married... gotta keep looking till the right one hits you. :news:

If we could embed video I'd post the Monty Python rabbit clip...."RUN AWAY!!!! RUN AWAY!!!!":you: