1996 Javelin 389 TDC w/ 1996 Johnson 175 Fast Strike-What are your thoughts?

[Rem870Express]

Been looking at a Skeeter and a Sprint but came across this one from I guy that I know takes care of his stuff. Can anyone give me any feedback on a 1996 Javelin 389 TDC w/ 1996 Johnson 175 Fast Strike w/ Hot Foot. White with black trim and grey carpet. 2003 Minn Kintoa 74lb thrust 24V hand controlled trolling motor w/ Pro-Kontrol stainless handle and bigfoot foot buttons. Eagle 480 fishfinder on dash and Eagle 320 on front deck...both 2005 models.

They just put a brand new lower unit in it. It was just replaced last month so its good to go. Had the compression checked on the powerhead(engine) as well and it checked out fine.

Looking at buying this boat and will definietly have it looked at by North Texas Fiberglass, but the guy that is selling it is a very honest and upstanding guy. he takes immaculate care of his stuff so it is in great shape.

Just wondering what peoples thoughts are the Javelin boat and that motor with the recent repairs.

Let me know and thanks

[Javelin389]

I had a '94 389 and it was a great boat. Only thing I would be concerned with is the hand controlled TM, but that's just me.

[Tom G.]

If you can post the model and serial number of the outboard in the Johnrude forum, the mods can check the history of the motor for you...

There weren't a lot of differences between the Javelins and Stratos, and the 389 was a real workhorse for them... Since Javelins aren't being built anymore, I will look at a Stratos, which is as close as you're going to get.

Check it out and drive it - you're the one spending the $$$, but I wouldn't be concerned because it's a Javelin.

[C-riggVA]

I love my Javelin/Johnson combo, I know the 389 is different from the Renegade but, Javelin is a great boat. Very well made, and Mine handles like a dream. Like said before, run it and see if you like it, I think you will. I also agree, I don't like hand controlled TM. and 600.oo or more to change to Foot controlled would throw me off a little. But thats just what I think.

Good luck.

[buzzjet]

If it is in your price range and in good shape, buy it. I had two 389's. They are GREAT boats. You will not be disappointed.

[jav389]

you cant go wrong with 389 i have a 98 389 with a faststrike 175 i brought it brand new and have not had any problems with it you can see it on the boats for sale page long story as to why its for sale but i love the boat the faststrike motors were one of the best that johnson made.

[dbuf]

I recently had a 96 389 SE with Johnson FS 175. The boat was very reliable and the motor ran great. It rode very well in choppy water. I wound up selling it after and year and buying a Skeeter. I had only a few minor dislikes. Mine had the bench seat which was fine other than your partner had to step on the seat to get to the rear deck. I also didn't care for the storage compartment configuration. I found it hard to access my tackle, etc. when I had rods on the deck. I still think that it was a great boat for the money. I actually made a little money selling it after a year.....not bad.

[Rem870Express]

Does anyone have any issue with the lower unit having been just replaced? I am new to this size of motors so I have no idea.

Let me know!

[C-riggVA]

I wouldn't have a problem w/ new lower unit. One less thing to worry about.

[dbuf]

The lower unit and powerhead on mine were replaced by the dealership before I took possession of the boat. I never had any problems with the new one, but only ran the boat for about 11 months before selling it.

[currituckbasser]

Buy it !! You will not be disappointed. I love my Stratos which is basically the same boat. And I also love my Hand control TM.