Advice on boat.

[Rivernut]

In-laws are looking at buying a '87 Alumacraft Lunker v16 ss. '93 shorelander, both mint! Also a Merc. 18XD motor. Does anyone know anything about this motor. Thinking it is old. All for 3200.00 Does anyone have any opinions. Thanks!

[FRESHWATER PETIE]

Is that a 18 horse power? If so, kinda small for a 16 ft boat. The price seems high for a 20 year old boat too. If it's in really nice shape and you really like it, talk them down on the price.

[Rivernut]

Thanks, it is an 18hp, he has no idea what year it is. Seemed high to me, but it is in near mint condition.

[Valv]

I agree being high on price, especially this time of the year, we are in the middle of the season.

I would talk them down a bit, also have motor inspected from a dealer or reputable mechanic.

I agree also 18hp is a little small for a 16ft, I would stay in the 30hp/40hp range.

[countryboy9799]

Get the model and serial number and call a dealer for the year.

I do this all the time because my experience has been way to many times it is older than they say it is, at least they are being honest about not knowing the year in this case.

[bwtrout]

The big problem with the 18hp is that it probably will not get the boat up on plane. I have a 15' decked boat with a 15hp and if you try opening it up everyone gets wet and even empty it will not plane. My 20hp honda 4 stroke will get that boat up but barely. On my 16' lund that is a plain old row boat the 20hp will plane and run fully loaded at around 19mph, 20mph empty.

[Rivernut]

Thanks guys, my father-in-law tells me the guy also has a 9.9 Merc. on the boat. Have to wonder if the 18 doesnt idle down well for trolling. I also agree, the price is a little high. I have not seen it myself, but am going up this next weekend to check it out myself. Thanks again for the input.