Please help a newbie.

[DGibbs]

You guys know your Boats so I have to ask. I'm aquiring (brother owes me money) a Caravelle Cuddy with a Mercruiser 165 that needs a lot of cosmetic work inside (weather).Seats,carpet and the like.I have no clue where to find out info on this boat or where I can get info on tune ups,maintenance,and all around how to info.<br />Also.I am going to have about $2000 in it from what I am owed. NADA's wabsite only goes to '89.I the trailer is a '78 so I assume the boat is also.I haven't done transfer yet.<br />What is a boat this old worth fixed up? Will I be able to upgrade to a better boat with what I'll have in this one ?<br />Any ideas ? I would include pictures but do not know how.I just now registered. Thanks.

 

[B_Eager]

Re: Please help a newbie.

My previous unit was a 1988 Wellcraft "192 Classic" cuddy with a four Cyl. 65 Merc. Should be an aluminum block with crome sleeves and a steel head. I still have my factory books. and I sold my manual to one of the guys at work. So what do you need to know???

 

[flashback]

Re: Please help a newbie.

LT. Dan, Ice cream! just my opinion, but sounds like your bro is tring to get over on you. 2 grand is a lot of dough for a boat that old in the condition you discribe.

 

[Fly Rod]

Re: Please help a newbie.

you told us that it is a cuddy. Is it a elgante; royale etc. motor size?

 

[B_Eager]

Re: Please help a newbie.

Hi Guys, I was not going to be the first to rain on his parade, But even if it was show room condition he would be luck to get half that much back on it. As how big the boat is I would figure it to under 20" for other wise he would never get it up on plane. I don't know about you area but up here in the north east that boat would not be worth much even if stored indoors for the winters.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Please help a newbie.

A 1978, with an old 470.... It won't be Worth what you'll have In It.....

 

[DGibbs]

Re: Please help a newbie.

Thanks fellas,<br />The boat is a 22 footer with a 165 horse 6cyl. Mercruiser Stern Drive.I either take the boat or take a loss. Or both it seems like , huh?<br /><br />Preshate it though

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: Please help a newbie.

Take the boat. You can always ebay it and get some of your money back, maybe the whole $2K. You'll probably have to put some $$ in it to try it out, if you want to try boat ownership, that is. Probably $500 or so to get it running to where you can take it out. Just be safe doing so. Do a little research first, on these forums, unless you already have experience. Keep a sense of humor about it...at least your bro is offering to pay you back with something.

 

[rons boat]

Re: Please help a newbie.

Have the engine checked to make sure it has not been freeze damaged. If it was not winterized properly there is a good chance the boat has negative value. I too am sorry for the news but if that mercurser manafold is busted it is toast. Sorry

 

[DGibbs]

Re: Please help a newbie.

Alright guys, thanks<br /> I,ll take the boat,research,work,and play.<br />A friend just finished marine maint.school and may want a project like this. I also have the previous owner's number and will contact him this week on the boat.My brother has only had it a few months.Maybe I can get a little insight from him.<br /><br />Again,thanks a lot

 

[John Carpenter]

Re: Please help a newbie.

Lt. Dan,<br /><br />A few of the above posts were based on the ASSUMPTION that you had the widely hated 470 engine As it turns out you have instead the well respected and loved 251 Chevy In-Line 6...165 hp. IMO one of the best engines Merc ever used. They are smooth, fuel efficient and have good low end torque...also easy to work on and get parts for. That said, you may not be making out like a bandit on this deal...but you are a lot better off than we thought at first. Just in time for Thunder Over the Ohio!