Re: repo auction (its over)
Always leary of repos and auctions. Repos: if they couldn't keep up with the payments, probably weren't keeping up with the maint. On this type of boat, a close inspection should reveal how well the owner has taken care of it. As you stated, the engine is the big unknown. Unlikely they will let you start it, but just being able to turn it over, maybe with emergency rope pull, will at least give yon confidence the engine isn't seized. Check the drive for any impacts, and corrosion damage. If everything looks good, then you "probably" only need a good tune-up including carb cleaning and impeller change. In excellent shape, I still wouldn't bid much over 4K, because of the unknown.<br /><br />If inspection is allowed prior to the day of the auction, take advantage of it. Might find out who the original selling dealer was. There are usually some decals somewhere on the boat, maybe even the keychain. Try contacting the dealer, and they might provide some additional info on repairs or the prior owners. <br /><br />Good luck on bidding, and you are correct, because of this time of year, you might get a good buy. A little snow on the ground, by the 15th might help your cause.

<br /><br />PS: Outside of the repo/auction/condition thing, I'd try to get more info on powering this size 'toon with a 50hp. Seems like that would be a little underpowered, but I'm not 'tooner. They all go too slow for me ;-)