[bones774]

Im looking at a 88 23br with 350 mercury marine engine, the boat seems quite large and heavy and was just wondering about if the engine would be sufficient for waterskiing and tubing. Any other considerations particular to this boat I should check. Overall it's nice cosmetically. Thanks

[Mike250]

Expect a top speed around 45-50 mph and it should do a fine job as far as water sports. Since it's got a few years on it I'd have it looked over by a marine mechanic.

How many hours on the engine? Is it on a trailer? If it checks out mechanically I'd make sure you take a test drive. Put it in and out of forward and reverse to make sure it shifts smooth and give it a good test drive.

[bones774]

There is no trailer with it, unfortunately. Inspecting boat Friday and will check the hour meter then. We will do test ride. I spoke with the owners mechanic who told me that the owner always did any required maintenance, plus will have service records.
What problems will be encountered with hard shifting.
The boat is very good cosmetically considering it's age.
The lack of trailer is a great concern of mine. The price is relatively low.

[Mike250]

With the boat on the water stop and move the shifter in and out of forward and reverse, it should shift easliy. If not it could indicate poor adjustment or worn shift cables that can cost a few bucks to repair.

I would also make sure all gages and lighting work properly along with the power trim.

Good luck.