Evan-
As another point of reference, I purchased a '74 19-6 a few weeks ago for less than $3k. Although it doesn't have a newer engine like you are looking for (it's got a late '80s Evinrude 140), I'm sure I could have gotten it for less than $4k with a '90s 115-150 Yamaha or similar engine. It's mostly original, but in pretty good shape (no soft spots on the floor, transom isn't pretty but is rock solid). Like almost any boat still around of it's age, it needs some clean-up (re-wiring, upgrades, etc), but overall it's a pretty nice boat. I do think I have a lower unit issue, so I'm expecting to have to throw another $500+ into it, but don't expect to be into the boat for more than $3,500 or so (fingers crossed) to get it out on the water and running reliably. As a frame of reference, I looked seriously for a 19-6 for well over a year before finding this one, but there were a number that I simply didn't get to quickly enough. The deals are out there; just have to stay on them and be ready to pull the trigger (i.e. cash in hand).
Also, I would join the group recommending a boat bigger than the 17-0. I didn't look at any 22-2s because my current vehicle ('98 Explorer soon to be replaced by a Super Crew F-150) wouldn't really be suited for that, and I'm almost exclusively going to be staying in-shore. The 22-2 is an amazing boat, but the 19-6 was a size that fit me for the moment. My Explorer is a V-6, and pulls the boat alright, but is definitely not ideal. No problems thusfar, however.
Good luck to you; hope you find it out there somewhere.
