QuestionI have a chance to purchase an aluminum 1982 22' smoker craft. It has been in storage for 3 years but is in great condition. it has a 1982 120 hp Johson with a 1982 15 Hp johnson kicker.It also has a cuddy. I have tried to find info searching the net on this boat but no luck. I am trying to see if it book value is around $5500.00 which is what I want to offer. Also I dont know much about the Johnson engines I have always been a evinrude kinda guy are these good motors? any info would be appreciated.
Thank you, David
AnswerThank you for your questions, David. First of all, OMC (Outboard Marine Corp'n.) manufactured both Johnson & Evinrude outboard motors. Most parts are interchangeable, and the engines were very reliable. Bombardier Corp. acquired OMC a few years ago, so visit their site for more details.
What you need to know prior to purchase is how many hours have the engines been operated, were they properly maintained, and were they appropriately lubricated/preserved prior to long term storage? They're 22 yrs. old so, don't expect perfection but, do anticipate repairs might be required.
Aluminum hulls are very durable. My only concerns would be how the hull was laid up for 3 yrs. and was the interior adequately protected and preserved. Here's a tip, while the boat is out of the water, insert the stern drain plug, then completely fill the bilge areas with water. If there are any leaks you'll readily see them - mark them with a wax crayon. The leak will usually prevail at rivets, unless there is a distinctive fracture in the aluminum skin or at welds.
Market values fluctuate coast to coast, north to south. Not knowing your geographical/city location, all I can suggest is what I would do, and that's discount the value of the engines to about $750 for the pair, and figure the boat (dependant upon condition/equipment)might be worth $3500-4500.If you'd like to get back to me with more details, I'd be glad to give you a more definitive answer.
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If you haven't already done so, please take a Coast Guard approved safe boating course, preferrably through your nearest power squadron. Have a super and safe boating season.
Ron Blanchet
