Should I buy this V20?

Beech tree · #1 08-24-2012, 02:52 PM

1986 V20, Johnson 150 with lower unit replaced 2 yrs ago. Also Power pack and solenoid replaced. Boat in good condition. Tandom trailer also good condition. Wants $4,800. I'm concerned about the Johnson and anticipate having to repower. Has VHF radio, am fm radio, and Bimini top. What, if any advice can anyone offer?

Thanks

chart · #2 08-24-2012, 07:16 PM

seems high but need pics, year of johnson and what state you live in for better advice

macojoe · #3 08-24-2012, 08:15 PM

Tilt the motor up, now while up grab hold of the prop end and see if you can move the motor up and down? Should be no movement! or you may need a transom.
Get up in the boat and walk around heavy and see if there is any soft spots in the floor? The hatch above the gas tank might be soft, but is a pretty easy fix.

Do you have a compression tester?? They are not to much to buy one if not, warm motor up a bit, then take plugs out and test all 6 holes. More important then how high they are the rule is they should all be with in 10% of each other.
Crack the screw in the lower unit, is the oil clear? If milky it has water in it. No good! Look for any metal shavings in the oil or some have a magnet that will collect it on the screw.
Check all options to make sure they work.

As stated above

good luck

charlie_the_tuna · #4 08-24-2012, 10:16 PM

$4,800. does sound a bit high but if it's in very clean condition, with the tandom trailer......... it may be a good deal.

Kracker Jack · #5 08-24-2012, 10:20 PM

Why are you worried about the motor? Just curious.

Beech tree · #6 08-25-2012, 11:38 AM

Did the transom check. Seems solid. Checking lower unit oil is cool. Will do on next visit. Floor is solid but fuel tank cover is soft. Will rely on comment that it is an "easy fix". Motor casing and lower unit looks rough and not well cared for. This, plus it's age gives me concern. I plan to make an offer on the boat and trailer but not on the motor. Someone suggested they stopped making Johnson's for a reason. Probably a negative reason.

Was surprised to hear that $4,800.00 was high. Can anyone suggest a fair price for the boat and tandom trailer? Both can be rated a tad above good condition but not quite excellent.

Many thanks

cfelton · #7 08-25-2012, 02:05 PM

Is it possible to take it out for a good hard couple a hour run? That usually will show most problems. Like MJ said give it a good checking around the transom and look down in the bait boxes at the end of the stringers. Take a rubber mallet and give it a good tap test over the transom. listen for a dead or hollow sound, which indicates a rotten wood core. Good luck!