boat purchase

[nfbb]

New at this so please excuse my ignorance.  Have been looking for a boat that could use for both hunting and fishing. Most of the fishing would be inshore and shallow rivers with some days in the Bay in calm weather.  The 22 Aquasport seem to really fit the bill as a safe, wide platform giving the boat multiple uses.   I found a boat that looked promising I guess but being so new into this my knowledge is limited.  I did read the section on what to look for when buying an older Aquasport.  I don't know exactly what model it is nor does the seller. I have only seen photos of the boat and the serial number plate.  The description from the seller is 1973 22' center console Aquasport 88 how Johnson, venture trailer, titles for both trailer and boat, hasn't been used for 2 years.  I was also told by the seller that he's the 3rd owner. The previous owner was the State of RI who used it to check bulk heads. He claims there's "a" soft spot on the deck and that the transom had been reinforced at some point.

Question: Is it safe to say that it's highly likely a boat of this age and condition would need a complete over-haul and should be considered a project boat.?  Would the typical scenario include a rotted transom that would need to be completely rebuilt?  as well as the rails under the deck and flotation, these would be saturated and need to be cut out and replaced?  The existing metal gas tank would be replaced with a plastic one, new gunwale caps, bottom coat, wiring harness, console, etc.

Thank you in advance and again please excuse my lack of knowledge about the Aquasport.

[boatnamesue]

The '73 22-2 is a beautiful hull, no doubt.  But this hull with that 88hp is waaay underpowered.  Most common hp hung on hull is 200hp, tho 150hp is fine too.  Hunting....well, I suppose so.  Guess depends on where your dropping in and the depth of water.  Most boats you hunt from are flat bottom aluminum, super light, and draft as little as the props diameter. 

If hull has 1 soft spot then good indication of deck condition, unless the water infiltration into deck was isolated to that area.  Without photos it will be tough for the builders here to give you an idea of the restoration required.  Replacing the engine alone will set you back big bucks.  Might wanna keep looking for a turn-key AS unless you enjoy the project. 

[Capt. Bob]

Yes on all points but a photo or two would help us to better understand what you're getting into. Still, a 46 year old hull is pretty much a project boat. The price should be very low to help to somewhat offset the rebuilding cost.

Good luck.

Ah BNS beat me to it.

[nfbb]

pictures of potential purchase 1973 (I believe it's a 22-2 flatback but not sure)

[nfbb]

more pictures

[RickK]

pictures of potential purchase 1973 (I believe it's a 22-2 flatback but not sure)

Not a flatback (FB) as you see the bottom of the transom is not flat across the bottom. This is a 12 degree hull, which handles better than a FB.

If you want to post a pic when you talk about your boat, which you should, follow the instructions here http://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=12725.0  - don't attach them, this is better for viewing.
Spend a few minutes to absorb the instructions. It's really easy.

[boatnamesue]

Def needs work.  What's the asking price?  Trailer doesn't look to be in good condition and looks like SS (rust).  Depending on its condition, consider the expense of replacement parts or replacing trailer.  Dual axl trailers are not cheap.