Queation?? Buying late 80's early 90's bass rig

[FLBasserDanny]

First, let me say I just discovered this site and I love it (especially the restoration section)
Anyway, I'll be purchasing my first tournament style bass boat within the next 6 months. Due to price point entry, I'll be buying a used rig. I'm interested in something from the late 1980's to mid 1990's 17' to 20' with a 150hp (I don't need a rocketship) . I think I'd like a Ranger, Skeeter, or Stratos. Is there any models or brands I should look into or avoid completely due to inherent problems. Any input anyone could provide would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Danny

[jaqfan]

I started the same way you did 2 yr's ago.. I found a 88 ranger 373V in great shape with a Evinrude 150 XP and couldnt be happier....18' boat that handles the water well, With the 150 XP by myself I get 61.8 GPS... All for just under 5 grand.. Start looking and send a email to Steve (Team Fatboy) He knows of some boats avail in the Jax area and may be able to help

[cart7]

Have the motor looked over by a pro and really look the transom and floor over for bad wood. Virtually all boats from that era were contructed with wood for structural support and unless regular maintenance was adhered to to keep water out you may have expensive to repair rot. As stated, the mid - late 80's Skeeters were notorious for rot.

[Rollo331]

On whatever you find check the transom very good...........
trim the motor all the way up and grab the lower unit and move it up and fdown make sure it does not FLEX the TRANSOM. Look at the motor mount bolts very close,make sure they appear to have good sealer,are not sucked into the transom, and not seeping brown yuck..........check the stern eyes for sealer and ooze also......(any hole drilled in the transom..........
If it was me i would take a couple of 3/4" wrenches and check the motor mount bolts for tightness. as mentioned check the floor good,and have the motor checked by a professional.....alot of the old Rangers was fine boats i had a 350V that i loved..............good luck and welcome to the site!

[AMS BOATS]

Take your creeper! roll yourself under the boat and look for gouging,cracks or repairs(if done right they wont be real obvious).Cracks on topside can be a visible sign of structural weakness or abuse.Sometimes they are cosmetic only,but deserve further inspection.You might look over other post concerning clears and flake,if overall appearance is an issue. Good Luck!

[FLBasserDanny]

Hey Jagfan,
That sounds right up my alley. The deal you got sounds like just the size and HP I'm looking for. Thanks for the lead for when I'm ready to buy and I'll keep that in mind.

Thanks everyone for your input. You've given me more information than I came here with and that's what I was hoping for.
Thanks Again