[dckloos]

I grew up around boats and have deceided to purchase a used boat. I have found a 1985 Cheetah 16'6 with a Merc Stern Drive 140hp 6 cyl. The boat looks in pretty good condition for an older boat. Floor, and hull in good shape, normal compression in all the cylinders. I am hoping to water test in the next week weather allowing. Anyone know the history of these boats, or can give me advise on what to look at on a stern drive for condition?Also any used boat buying advise, given the price of this boat, I am not sure if a survey would be worth the money. I am really purchasing it as a starter boat, and to get my feet wet again.

[DJ]

Are you sure that Mercruiser 140 is a six cylinder?

[Ranger354]

Check it out good or you might get more then your feet wet.

[wyattm]

Take the boat for a ride before you buyCheck engine oil and make sure there is no water mixed with the oil, check dipstick to see if oil smells like it is burnt. Check outdrive oil for metal shavings there should be some but not large amounts on the plug. Make sure there are no leaks in the transcom.the engine is what you want to work the best provide the hull doesn't have any major leaks in it. If it has carpet in it pull the carpet up and check the wood/fiberglass underneath for soft spots, see if you can tell if the stringers have soft spots in them, if they do this means they are water logged. if that would be the case stay away from it. Check batteries, horn, lights, blower, bigle pump to make sure they all work. Fittings on fuel tank. Find out if the company that built the boat is still around and can you get replacement parts for it. this sounds like a private sale, there is no recourse afterward, if you go to a dealer usually there is some recourse if the boat dies on you. good luck with your venture.