Need Help On What Type Of Boat to Buy

[EASYSTROKE]

After making several trips to the lake I have started thinking about getting an i/o boat. I curently have a jet boat and while it is fun, I need a boat with more storage and ease of use. I am thinking of selling my jet. The headers and tunnel ram are cool as hell to look at but annoying for the back seat passengers as well as the skiers and tubbers. I need some help on what I should be looking for. I will have to purchase a used boat. I am thinking around 7000.00 is what I will have to spend. I would like something with a small block chevy in it with future plans to swap it out for a big block. I still want something with room for performance improvements. The next big question is what type of outdrive should I be trying to find in the boat. Thanks for any insight.

[mirvin]

I don't know if 7k gonna get you what you want. Mainly because the upgrade from small block to big block isn't really practicle. Might as well start with the big block or just plan on getting another boat in a couple of years.
Outdrive will depend on horsepower WHen buying used you don't have the luxury of picking and choosing. Hopefully the boat will have the appropriate drive on it already.
You should be able to find a decent late 80's 20 fotter-ish with a 350 for under 10k. But be carefull, these boats are usually basket cases. Take a real good look at the hull and stringers and transom and try to get a water test if you find anything you're interested in.
mirvin

[EASYSTROKE]

Thanks for the info mirvin. I will put some links here to show what I have been looking at. Maybe I will need to spend more money. I didn't mention it earlier but I was thinking a mid to late 80's with an open bow or cuddy and v8 power. Other than making sure the boat is sound, I not sure what to be looking for when it come to the lower units.
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/2/7/73135027.htm
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/3/9/73045339.htm
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/1/4/73134514.htm
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/5/1/73584651.htm
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/4/2/63391342.htm

[mirvin]

What kind of hull is your jet? We're primarily into the "custom" hulls here. You know, builders like Eliminator, Carrera, Commander, Hallet, etc. In lew of that, I say your going to get more performance out of the last three ads you put up. I think there was a THunderbird and a Wellcraft or two. I guess you need to determine what it is you want to be doing with your boat and where you'll be doing it.
Buying used is always risky because there's no telling what condition the drive and motor are in. You should be able to get a good look at the hull to make sure there's no cracks and leaks and stuff.
Good luck
mirvin