New to pontoon's.....q's

[7lazy77]

I am currently looking for a pontoon & just thought I would see if I could get some additional information. I will have to buy used & my budget is around $8,000. I "think" I would like a 24' which should accomidate my family of 5 well, but I would like to have the extra capacity to bring friends on occassions.
What are some of the things to look for or avoid?
I have been told to stay away from scissor trailers if I plan on doing a little traveling (which I do)? Not quite sure what "scissor trailers" are or what they look like?
I have also been informed to be aware of foam filled toons. Was there a certain year they were no longer filled with foam? How can I tell if they are foam filled?
Any other information for a "first-timer" would be greatly appreciated.
Sorry for all the dumb questions, just don't want to purchase one that I will later regret because I didn't know what to look for. Thanks

 

[lncoop]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Here is a thread that mentions some things to look for. http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=430030&highlight=pontoon I used the term scissor trailer generically (think scissor lift), but there are essentially two pontoon trailer designs: bunk style and under the deck. Under the deck trailers are advantageous in certain situations but are not nearly as stable as bunk trailers and aren't really intended to be used regularly for towing. Here are examples of each. http://www.pontoonfactory.com/TMC_pontoon_boat_trailer.htm There is nothing inherently wrong with foam filled toons. Most people (myself included) dislike them because if the barge develops leaks the foam becomes waterlogged and can't be removed without destroying the toons. There aren't that many out there, so I wouldn't worry about it too much, but I think Playcraft had some and maybe Lowe. I'm sure there are others, but the majority are filled with good ol' oxygen. If you find one you like and the seller can't answer the foam question someone here will probably be able to. I think you're spot on with a 24 footer. That's just small enough to tow comfortably and big enough to handle your crew. You'll need one with a 115 if you want to pull tubers. You'll also need to keep your wallet handy because she'll be thirsty. With your price range your best bet will probably be something like a Suntracker, but there's all sorts of stuff in the secondary market. You'll just have to keep looking and keep an open mind. We've had the pleasure of hearing from several westerners lately and based on their experiences it seems that pontoon boats trade at a premium out there, so if you can swing it you might consider expanding your search into other states. Don't get in a hurry. Make it fun, because it is. Good luck.

 

[Water logged]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Generally a round or tubuler pontoon would be filled only with air. A "U" shaped pontoon, round on the bottom flat on top would be foam filled. Don't know if that would be gospel, but a place to start.

Glenn

 

[5150abf]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

You certainly aren't dumb you just don't know yet, a place we have all been.

Water logged is right, normally the only tubes that are foam filled are the U tubes and there aren't that many companies that make them so you probably won't run across any.

Scissor trailers are okay, you just need to be mindfull that they are tippy, unless you drive like a complete idoit you shouldn't have a problem.

A 24 should be perfect and I have never heard anyone say "I wish I had gotten a smaller boat" and you should be able to find one pretty easy in your price range.

When you find a boat take it out on the water and run it that way you wil have at least some idea how to run it and safe boating coarse is almost mandatory, a car and boat both run on gas and have a steering wheel, aside from that almost everything else is different.

When you find a boat your interested in post what it is and what engine it has and we can better answer your questions.

 

[lncoop]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Scissor trailers are okay, you just need to be mindfull that they are tippy, unless you drive like a complete idoit you shouldn't have a problem.

Since you'll be towing in the mountains I really think you should stay away from them. Just my opinion, which is worth sligthly less than what you've paid for it.

 

[EGlideRider]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Some very good answers here. Einstein is quoted as saying "We are all dumb. Just in different areas". Pretty true statement, don't ya think?

So ask away. You'll get (LOL) lots of accurate info here.

 

[lncoop]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

So ask away. You'll lots of accurate info here.

And some of the other kind too.:facepalm:

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

TRAILERING: I originally picked up my 24' new trailer with a 4 cylinder automatic Ranger, and my trailer was a roller style single axle trailer. My mistake.

The bunk style pontoon trailers are far better, and a 24' boat needs tandem (two) axles. Pontoon boats are not necessarily heavy, however wind resistance and long length makes them pull heavier than they actually are. They are best pulled with a full size V8 or diesel pickup. If you're pulling through any mountains, surge trailer brakes are needed.

NOW: My boat is kept in a boathouse, and I have 2 neighbors that can lend me late model bunk style trailers. When I pull my boat for maintenance, my diesel 3/4 ton pulls a pontoon boat like it's not even back there.

SUMMARY: If you're going to pull a pontoon boat very far (to the lake) or if you're pulling through the mountains, make sure your tow vehicle is substantial enough to do the job. Otherwise, find a good marina to leave it in during "the season."

 

[7lazy77]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Thanks for all the help & advice in my search. I think I will take advantage of everybody's opinions on pontoons as I come across them & post on the board. Towing is not an issue, I have a Dodge 3500 diesel dually that I use for 5th wheel camper, stock trailer, etc.

Came across this one today... http://omaha.craigslist.org/for/2470410137.html He says the motor was rebuilt 4 years ago. I am not sure why it sits so low in the rear though? Any input?

 

[EGlideRider]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

The toons look to be 20" toons. If so, then with a 115, it will probably set that low in the stern.

IMHO, I would not exclude this boat, but I would certainly do so more searching. The boat is nearly 25 years old and I am always skeptical of a rebuilt motor.

 

[lncoop]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

I think you'd be unhappy with the smaller toons. A few people aboard would sink them pretty deep causing decreased performance and quite a bit of spray over the bow.

 

[Silver Eagle]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

I don't buy from E-bay ,but they have some nice pontoon boats there.Maybe you will see one close enough to take a good look at. I'd stay away from the older boats ,It's like looking at a used, car newer is better.There are some very good 2000 and newer out there.Mine was only 2 two years old when I got it.

 

[7lazy77]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Hey fellers, what are your thoughts on this one? http://denver.craigslist.org/boa/2486323670.html

 

[lncoop]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

I like it, but you wouldn't be giving the tubers much of a ride with a sixty horse. While it does look like a nice barge for five grand and change I say keep looking. With an eight thousand dollar budget you'll find the right one. Just takes a little while.

 

[7lazy77]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

It's tough looking for a good used pontoon! Seems like you find good clean boat & the motor is too small.....or you find a good size motor & the boat is beat to heck.

 

[lncoop]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Yep. Been there done that. Hang in there. You'll look and look and look and get more and more discouraged, then suddenly "Eureka!". Don't give up lazy. Your baby is out there.

 

[7lazy77]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Came across a couple new listings today.....what do you think about either of these? Thanks
http://tulsa.craigslist.org/boa/2491848505.html
http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/boa/2491918841.html

 

[lncoop]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

That's more like it lazy. They're both worth consideration, but I really like the dual biminis on the second one, and those toons appear to be very clean and straight. I'd want detailed closeup photos (motor inside and out, motor pod, inside the helm, all upholstery including inside seat bases, under the boat, etc.) and a very specific accounting of any issues, regardless of perceived significance (or insignificance) before getting serious. The deck and seat bases are most likely plywood, so don't forget to ask about their condition. Also, I'd want a candid and detailed assessment of the motor's mechanical condition. "Runs good" won't cut it. You need compression numbers, disclosure of any issues (past or present, repaired or not). Also, ask many questions about the trailer. Seller states it has surge brakes. Ask whether they're fully functional with no issues, because brakes will be required by law on a rig that size. Let us know.

 

[7lazy77]

Re: New to pontoon's.....q's

Thanks, I will do some checkin' out.