Help! 1995 Sport Nautique

[DMED]

Found a 1995 sport nautique for 9K. I called the guy for two weeks straight with no response. I finally get him on the phone and he has not shown the boat to anyone as he is too busy with work. Self employed contractor and trying to finish multiple projects.

He decided to arrange a day next week to have all interested test drive the boat and inspect.

I have been sent the pics and it is extremely clean. I asked to view and drive this weekend and he said he was too busy. I asked if I could view tomorrow and not expect him to walk me through the entire boat and take him time. I could do it on my own (he works from home). He agreed. If this seems like a steal and it operates perfectly out of water would any of you purchase on the spot?

I am afraid I could get in a pissing match next weekend at the marina.

I have owned stern drives my entire life and understand the mechanics of an inboard- seals, stearing cable issues, etc...

Any issues with 95 nautiques I should look for?

What would you do?

[Skier12]

If the boat runs well in the water take it an run at 9k you getting a great deal. Inboards have alot less going on compared to I/O. If the motor runs well and the boat shifts smooth go for it.

Good luck.

[td95sport]

I got my 95 sport 3 years ago and paid about double what his asking price is. Mine had 234 hours when I got it and was in like new condition for a 95. How many hours are on this boat?? I have always wanted to test drive anything before I paid for it, but this sounds like a good deal. If it checks out good go for it.

[DMED]

It only has 163 hours. I don't think I mentioned that he is so busy with work he scheduled a test drive / inspection with all interested buyers next weekend. I don't want to go down this route and match dollar to dollar with all interested buyers.

So if it runs smooth and shifts in and out of gear out of water buy it? Assuming also it is cosmetically what I want?

Dave

[td95sport]

If it checks out fine out of the water it should be good. Since you know what to look for in this style of boat and at that price. I don't see how you could go wrong.

[DanielC]

Look for damage on the bottom of the boat. Look for indications that the rudder, propeller, strut, and fins are new, or if they are discolored from being in the water.
Brand new stuff indicates damage that was repaired.
With the motor off, try to spin the propeller by hand, if should spin fairly freely. Spray some water into the strut bushing.
Supply water to the raw water pump.
You can then start the boat, and put it in both forward and reverse gears for a very short time.
If everything checks out OK, and you feel good about the boat, and seller, buy it.

[laddski]

I'm with the others. I own a 93 Sport and they are pretty bullet proof. I would not worry about an in water test if you do the other things that are suggested. Have the 9k ready to hand to him and see what he does. There is some concern that he might just be playing the game and WANTS to have everyone at the lake to bid it up. Good luck. You will love the boat.