1979 mako 20 overpriced?

[fishdog4449]

Hey guys,
I sold my Glassmaster runabout a few weeks ago, I loved it but wanted something a little bigger with more space.

I came across this boat for sale that had lived down the street from me for quite a few years. It's a 1979 20' Mako CC with a 1985 johnson 120. It's in fair condition, but has two semi-soft spots on each side of the console, spider cracks in the (very faded) gelcoat, the motor needs cleaned and tuned up (carbs an fuel rebuilt, says it often stalls going into gear because of "the ethanol") and the owner freely admitted all of this to me, even called it a "mechanics dream". He's asking 3700$. FIRM. So firm that he seemed very insulted when I implied that I would not like to pay that much because of it's condition. The double axle trailer is in great condition, albiet a little small for the boat.
I have heard that Makos are good boats and this certainly looks like a great fishing rig but almost four grand just seems quite high to me especially considering the floor will probably be shot?)
...maybe this is why it has been for sale for a quite a few months?
Thanks..

MJK

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: 1979 mako 20 overpriced?

Mako's are good boats and popular in the Chesapeake Bay but it seems high when you add up the issues. If it weren't for the soft spots I might think otherwise, but you know something under there is bad but you don't know how much. PLus you would plan on repowering and, if you trailer a lot, getting that squared away too. Look on the other Virginia craigslists including Eastern Shore and also outerbanks/eastern nc.

 

[mako172]

Re: 1979 mako 20 overpriced?

Makos up until about 1996 are excellent boats. They went down when Tracker marine bought them out and cut production costs.

Things to look on a Mako like this are transom, floors and gas tank. Stand on the cavitation plate and see if the transom flexes or there are more than cosmetic cracks along the edges. Small floor spots are not a game changer. There are ways to fix small floor spots without totally gutting the deck. The gas tank could be a huge issue. Pull the access hatch cover under the console and smell for fumes. If you smell gas, run. If the tank looks like it has been replaced in 30 years, it may be OK.

If you want an excellent deal on an old Mako check out the Florida Craigslist. If you want more info check out classicmako.com