I owned a '79 Glastron with the 165 hp Merc, it's called the 465 engine. It
had it's problems when new, but the fixes should be in at this late date. I
used mine in fresh water for about 6 years, and the only problem I had were
self-inflicted. The boat is heavy for a 17 footer, but willl take alot of
abuse. I never had a single problem with the hull. The motor is based on a
Ford tractor block, built by Mercury, and is fresh-water cooled (has a heat
interchange unit). It uses point and condensor ignition, and a simple
carburetor, both are easily repaired. Early models had alternator problems,
they used a constant-current system that did not last, but the offending
units should have burned up by now.
Yes, you can start and run the motor out of the water, just hook up a hose
and mittens to run for any length of time. I enjoyed my Glastron, a lot of
kids went tubing behing that boat. Is this boat a Blue metalfllake and
white,
many were that color scheme.

PS. If you store this boat in a cold location (below freezing) be sure to
carefully drain the sal****er side of the cooling system, get a manual for
instructions or hire it done. The fresh-water side is a 50/50 anti-freeze
mix. Oh yes, also replace the lower unit lubricant every Fall, if there's
any water in the lubricant it will freeze and crack the lower unit case.
That last part I know from bitter experience, a good used lower unit sells
in the 4 figures.


"n8" wrote in message
om...
Hi,

I'm thinking of purchasing a '78 Glastron 17foot with a 165hp i/o
merccruiser. I am totally new to boats. This will be my first. The
boat hasn't been used in 3 years. Looks like it's been in california
for most of its life. The interior has seen better days, but mostly
just rips and tears in the vinyl seats. I know the biggest factor is
the engine. What should I look for? Cracks? Where? Also, doubt
these folks will let me 'test drive' considering the low price. Can
you startup the engine out of water?

Any buyers advice, to avoid buyers remorse, is welcome...
Thanks,
..n8