Thoughts on Purchasing 1979 170

[RyanA97]

Hi all,
New to the site and I wanted some thoughts on purchasing a 1979 Aquasport 170. I'm trying to figure out if it is a good buy for $1800. I will attach as many pictures as I can. The engine number comes back as a 1983 J115JTLCTE. According to the current owner, the engine seizes up after sitting over night...he claims he has to completely drain it, manually free it and then it "runs all day". I saw videos of the engine running. He replaced the starter and plugs.  Upon my initial inspection, the hull seemed solid, The front eye ring needs repair as it broke off at the stud. Has original fuel tank still in it but has been drained. Is currently run off an external tank.  Trailer has new tires and bearing but the leaf springs are shot. I'm on the fence of purchasing due to the engine issues and I wanted to see what advice/insight you all could offer. Thanks for your time.
Pictures:

[wingnut]

If transom is sound, I’d say it’s a very good deal. Looks to be in pretty good shape. If deck is sound then it’s an even better deal.

If you don’t trust the motor, sell for $500, buy a used two stroke for a couple grand, and you’re ahead of the curve!

If it needs major rehab (deck or transom replacement) then it’s still probably a good buy, but becomes more of a personal choice of whether you want to do the work.

[RickK]

(I was typing while Wingnut was typing....) IMO, I think it is a good buy, even if the motor needs work. If the transom is shot, then that changes my opinion. Does it come with the trailer? I gave you a link on buying a used Aquasport, make sure you read it and heed it as you check out the boat. Bouncing on the engine when it's tilted up is the way to check the transom for flexing.

[RyanA97]

Appreciate your thoughts. I read through the materials you provided...big thanks. Comes with the trailer as well which is a plus.

[boatnamesue]

Good buy or not is relative to what you expect from the rig, ya know.  $1800 is not buying you a turn-key rig....which is ok if that's what you're expecting.  Not sure what the owner is actually meaning by saying the engine "seizes" when left overnight.  An engine "seizes" when it's running....and it ain't coming un-seized by simply draining anything from anywhere.  So I think he's describing some other malfunction associated w/the fuel system.  Be that as it may, the engine needs a lot of work to become reliable.  The trailer frame looks to be in really good condition. 

So if the deck has no soft spots and the transom is solid, hang a reliable engine and you're off and running....then $1800 is great deal for solid hull and trailer.  Otherwise, plan on spending $$$ on hull restoration and $$$ on a reliable engine.