After you decide what kind of boating you'll be doing, spend some time
talking with boaters at the launch ramp you'll be using. Ask them why they
bought the boat they have and if they'd buy the same boat again.

"John H." wrote in message
...
On Thu, 3 Apr 2008 08:22:25 -0700 (PDT), Haas C wrote:

Hi all!

I am about to purchase a pre-owned/used boat soon - it will be my
first time purchasing. I am going to buy something between 3-6 years
old - with that kind of age, what would be a good use of engine hours?
Not sure if i am getting an outboard, inboard, I/O, but would welcome
any and all suggestions. i am going to be boating mainly on lakes.
When i see ads, i usually see engine hours listed - just wanted to
know how many hours are too much, etc. Thanks!

Having had an I/O and an outboard, I would go with an outboard for a
smaller boat, something you'd be trailering around to different lakes. I
would think between 50-100 hours a season is reasonable as far as hours
go.
Obviously, the fewer the better.

Make sure you get a chance to have the boat and engine inspected before
plunking down your money!
--
John *H*
(Not the other one!)