Get the boat and go from there.

Yeah. It's kind of required to have the toy before planning how to play with it.

425 hp would spin a19p well over 5600. i wouldnt do that for long on stock bottom end parts and flat lifters. That said, its a clean boat for 10k. Always factor in a long block when you have any doubt and exhaust also. In my opinion you found something to work with here.

The buolder said he would like to see that engine turning 5200 at wot. Should last a while. Like I said I prefer to run about 40-45 so it should be good for me.

Is there something wrong with that imco exhaust set up?

Nothing wrong with IMCO. Looks like that boat is a good find.

Maybe so. I guess we will find out in a few weeks.

I would always suggest a boat that is useable as is. I see many people buy basket cases that never get finshed. Buying a boat that is working will let you enjoy it and not get discouraged. Then just upgrade it as you can. I paid $9500 for my 86. I have done the transom, transom assembly, new cover, repainted the drive, new blower motor, new gauges, new GPS, trailer tires, trailer brakes, drive shower, sunpad, hydraulic steering and rigging. I am now $25,000 in the boat. I have yet to loose a day on the water in my 2 summers of ownership. Having it be enjoyable from the beginning kept me motivated.

Definitely some potential. You'll need to lose the rubber fuel line to be Coast Guard legal (and safe).

What fuel line is it supposed to have?

It is supposed to have lines that say " us coast guard approved" right on it. I run -8 braided stainless Aeroquip, like many other people. Mine is not coast guard approved. You will get a big debate on fuel lines here. If that line is new automotive, it will not allow vapors to permeate the hose. It will probably not be coast guard approved though.