1998 FICHT 175 with 380 Hours Question (looking at buying)

[montanafos]

I'm sure this has been asked MANY times but can't find difinitive answers about this situation. I have found a very nice boat with a 1998 FICHT 175 on it with 380 hours. Boat and outboard are spotless, but I came across all of the horror stories last night on these outboards and need to ask for some advice. The guys says teh motor runs perfectly and I asked him about the updates from OMC and he stated that 3-5 years ago he had it in his shop and the did software and progrmming upgrades on it. Should I stay away from this outboard? Thanks for replies... The boat is an Alumacraft Trophy 185...very clean. Boat, trailer and outboard are $12000.

 

[wilde1j]

Re: 1998 FICHT 175 with 380 Hours Question (looking at buying)

Run, don't walk away ...

Unless you can get the mess with the motor valued at $0, forget it. Worst motor OMC ever made.

 

[jonesg]

Re: 1998 FICHT 175 with 380 Hours Question (looking at buying)

I'm sure this has been asked MANY times but can't find difinitive answers about this situation. I have found a very nice boat with a 1998 FICHT 175 on it with 380 hours. Boat and outboard are spotless, but I came across all of the horror stories last night on these outboards and need to ask for some advice. The guys says teh motor runs perfectly and I asked him about the updates from OMC and he stated that 3-5 years ago he had it in his shop and the did software and progrmming upgrades on it. Should I stay away from this outboard? Thanks for replies... The boat is an Alumacraft Trophy 185...very clean. Boat, trailer and outboard are $12000.

Make an offer without the engine.
The resale value on the fitch is very poor.

 

[oldgradywhite]

Re: 1998 FICHT 175 with 380 Hours Question (looking at buying)

If you like the boat and its at a marina buy the boat with out the motor or make LOW offer on the boat so you can replace the motor. That price seems a bit high too in my opion. Fichts from that time are a crap shoot most are nightmare's some were ok I would say 1 in 17 were lucky most were not.

 

[montanafos]

Re: 1998 FICHT 175 with 380 Hours Question (looking at buying)

Greatly appreciate the responses. I backed out of the deal yesterday and am VERY happy I found this forum. What a shame...this boat is beautiful. I will keep looking for the right boat and the right buy. Thanks again...