2001 Four Winns bowrider, with 476 hours on it, this a good boat?

Question

Hi I'm looking at a 2001 Four Winns 18ft 180 LE bowrider. (I think thats the model, I know its an LE, is 18ft, four winns, 2001 and a bowrider and I THINK its a 180) It has 190hp and 476 hours on it. There asking 10,900 wth trailer. Is four winns a good company? Is this a good boat? Is this a good price? Is there enough hp to waterski, wakeboard and tube with ppl on boat? Is there too many hours on the engine? How long until engine mantinence? Please answer

and give as many details as possible!!! I am also looking at a 2002 four winns with about 200 hours on it, 235hp but not sure what model. They're asking about 13-14k. Which bowrider do u think would be better? The main purpose for the boat would be to go fast, cruise around and lots of watersports. I live on a medium sized lake. Thank you and please answer!!

Answer 1

Four Winns is a great make of boat.  Judging by your needs of a boat, I would agree a thorough survey is a good investment, but you may be disappointed by the top speed, and towing power of the smaller horse motor.  I regularly carried 8-10 people in a 20'  bowrider with a 220hp I/O motor, and in my opinion, it was just enough, and wished I had more power!  If you can afford to look at the higher horsepower model, you may want to go that route to avoid being stuck with a boat that is lacking in the performance you are after.  Good luck!

Answer 2

either boat seems to be a reasonable deal. the hours are o.k. for a 2001 model. i asume it is an outdrive model with outboard cooling. no saltwater?. the main problem with outboard drives is the cooling system. check the manifolds for any signs of rust around the gasket fittings. check compression of each cylinder. is a maintenance record available?. check for any sign of an oil leak under the engine.

Answer 3

You may consider hiring a reputable surveyor before making a final decision. They will check compression, outdrive, prop, transom, electrical, pumps, lights, the list goes on. If you don't know what to look for this could save money and heartache down the road. I have seen many boats that looked great until I really looked at them and found very bad things, like someone sinking the boat and trying to hide it. The first rule of buying used is let the buyer beware!! Good luck