Questions about a 1998 Osprey 1998

[bbAqua]

I am trying hard to buy an older 17 Aquasport for my young son and I who is really into fishing.  I am looking at a 1998 175 with a mid 90s 2-stroke Yamaha.  I looked at the boat and the guy is asking top dollar (almost 8k) but I see a few pros/cons with the boat:
1. Engine wont start - Water is coming into the poly tank and from my inspection the tank looks fine but he water appears to be coming in to the tank via the sending unit (and fuel is coming out at the same spot).  The sending unit appears to have a screw that wont tighten making me question the effort to repair and/or replace the tank.
2. Overall Finish - I pulled the stern storage insert to see the transom and hull and it has a large chunk of fiberglass chop/mat sitting in the bottom of the hull.  Almost 4-5 inches of chop/mat sitting down there that I guess I could cut out with my angle grinder and re-glass.  I assume this is just from the mass production of these hulls but was curious if this was normal.  I realize that this isn't impacting the function/value of the boat but if I compare boats in this price range and year, a lot boats have a better finish and makes me question the price.
3. Cracks around center console doors - The plastic 'gasket' that fits around the center console access doors are all cracked.  Can I replace just this part or do I have to retrofit another door?
4. New trailer.
5. Mostly freshwater with limited rust.

Ultimately I really want this to work out and I am not afraid of some work but I don't want to be stuck in a bad situation.

I really appreciate your honest answer.

[Capt. Bob]

Well a 98 is a Genmar hull and we don't see a lot of problems with them but 8K for a boat that doesn't run and leaks fuel is no deal.

Pics would help.

Good luck.

[bbAqua]

Thanks Bob.  I don't have any good photos but I will grab some if I go back. 

I am sure the motor will run but I am more concerned about the fuel tank letting gas out and water in.  Curious if anyone has had any experience with sending units that wont tighten.  I am afraid I am going to be left with a hack job (caulk/motor gasket sealer/etc) or replacing the entire tank.  If it is the latter, I assume this is a pretty big job or could it be as simple as unscrewing the deck and console?

I appreciate any insight.

[Ulysses485]

I would say 8k is a steep price to pay for boat without a working motor, possibly needing a new motor, and possible fiberglass in the works.

Like all things, the more patience you have and the more you look, the more you learn and find out about these boats an in return find better deals and more options.  You could easily find an older hull with a strong motor in good working condition for that price. This website is a great resource and most are willing to provide input so don't be afraid to ask questions. I have also found Facebook Marketplace to be a good resource for finds.

- Ulysses