1989 18' Exciter

[barnaclebill]

Getting ready to pic this boat up for a restoration project. Is there any common problem with these boats that I should look for. I work on outboard saltwater boats and this will be my first sport boat project. My kids want to go fast now and are tired of fishing. Hope to pick the boat up next weekend. Will post pics.

 

[ndaniels]

I had an 88 Exciter... it was an awesome boat! They handle bigger power great and are easy to drive when you figure out the right setup for your combo.

No common problems.. just the usual stuff to look out for: rot, soft spots, transom rot.. I had to rebuild the rear seatbase on mine.. interiors are usually getting rough on a boat that old. Mine was very solid with a decent interior and I couldn't find any rot anywhere. Good luck with it!

 

[bsprout]

Fun boats. Easy to drive.

 

[barnaclebill]

Sounds good. Have not seen this boat in person, only in pictures. If it was a seacraft, grady white or other make saltwater fishing boat I would already know whats wrong them. Dont know much about the boat. I believe its rated for a 180hp. Will be building a Johnson 235 powerhead and mate it up to a 175 midsection so the hp plate is not over rated.

 

[barnaclebill]

Leaving at 2pm Sat to pick her up Sunday mourning. Its a 12 hour drive. Girlfriend and I have a nice road trip this weekend with no kids.

 

[barnaclebill]

Boat turned out to be a 171 Spectra. Still purchased it as the hull, floor and stern is solid. Will post pics as work is done.

 

[JT Patroni]

Good luck with your purchase. Checkmate builds solid boats.

You will have a good combination when you are done.
The Del Bay may just get a little heavy some days for you.

I know it has tossed my 21' Starflite.

 

[barnaclebill]

I have a grady for the bay. This boat will be used on the Maurice River. Not to say it will never go in the bay...