All,

I've been a fan of this forum for a number of years, and have wanted to buy a boat forever... I decided to start small, and I'm going to look at a 1980 Formula 20' (Thunderbird I believe), with the 4 cyl 470 Mercruiser. It was a boat owned by a fellow who recently passed away, and now it needs a new home. The asking price is $1900.

It has had the alternator conversion, and has been said to be a beautiful boat. It has been a fresh water boat its entire life. I don't mind doing work on it, as I used to be a mechanic and now I'm an engineer, but I don't want a disaster...

How can I be sure the transom isn't gone, or the stringers are rotted away? Is this a decent first time boat for someone to learn and work on?

Here's the link to the craigslist add. I'm going to look at it tomorrow.

http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/boa/4574913329.html

Thanks for all the stories and motivation to get out on the water.

Cheers

You can simply tap around the stringers and transom by hand or with a hammer or screw driver. You should be able to tell the difference if it is soft. Another way of double checking is seeing if the swim platform mounts are solid. You could go further into a more in depth survey on transom and stringers but I do not believe it is worth it for price and age of the boat. Boat looks nice and looks like it has mainly been trailered so Hopefully all checks out well, and good luck

Very nice looking Formula. They are pretty heavy for 20' and I would be a little concerned how well it gets around with that small engine. I believe it is rated at 170 HP new and likely pretty tired. I would try to find one with a V8.

Now on the other end of the spectrum... Here is my Dad's 1978 he bought new and still owns. It has a big block (not stock) and TRS outdrive.

I really hate to spill cold water on this - First looking at the pics the boat doesn't "look" too bad. However, the 170 engine I believe was the old Chevy Vega engine. I know the old Mercruiser 120 and 140 hp were the 4cylinder engines -- these were plagued with problems - overheating etc., and the 170 was an offshoot of that. So regarding the engine you may have some issues around that in the future. Transom rot can be an issue with almost every boat and each one is going to need a review/inspection. I know there are a number of folks that have cut out transoms and rebuilt - but this can be expensive. Long and short for $1900 you may have a fine boat but on the other hand it could end up being a money pit - in my house that wouldn't pass the CFO.

good luck

3pointstar

The 470 shortblock was designed and manufactured by Mercruiser and is not based on the chevy 4 cyl,, it uses the cylinder head from a 460 ford v8.. A lot of rat rod guys use it in their hot rods..
In stock form it made as much as 190hp ..

Thanks for the clarification- I thought that it was the 4cylinder vega engine--

3pointstar

Thanks for the rapid input, guys. I know the engine is a unique powerplant. From what I've read, it's one half of an original Ford 460 engine, except that it was completely designed and constructed by Mercruiser. It's an aluminum head, and an aluminum block with steel sleaves for piston walls.Apparently, if the crank is worn, or has worn the retaining bore holes in the block, then that's a major issue, as it can't be repaired.

I know it's not a speed demon by any means, I just want something that's reasonably priced, that...floats, and can teach me a few things without spending tens of thousands on suprises. I'm a single guy, and spend more time in the garage than in the house, so I'm thinking optimistically.

4mulafastech, thanks for those images. That gives some inspiration! Same color and everything. I'm thinking at this price, I need to give it a look.

Satisfaction, I'll spend some time listening closely to the transom area. Thanks!

That 470 engine has a bad reputation. So, although a nice boat, the engine may give you fits.

If you simply want to get on the water, buy it. 1900 isn't big money these days. That being said, you are mechanical and like tinkering too. Just get a v8 (350) and be done with it. Much more reliable, cheaper more common parts, plenty of power etc. etc. I would not want less than a v8 in a boat. I have a 206 Formula, and I couldn't imagine it with a 4 cylinder, I would hate it. No really I would!!!!

I understand. I like fast cars, off road 4x4s, and vintage motorcycles. I know power is key, especially in water with all the weight and resistance working against you. I'm going to have a look at it, and hope to go for a ride. I'm not bringing any cash with me, only to prevent an impulse decision. The 470 motor gets 50/50 reviews - some love it, some hate it. It depends what condition its in, and how much someone put into it.

After looking for while, there's not a lot out there that's clean. I don't want an abused, neglected boat, regardless of what engine is in there. What I do know is that Formula is the best bet; they made the boats in numbers, and they seem to have held up well over the years. Finding a clean 1970s to early 80s 22' or less for a few grand is a challenge.

We shall see soon enough. I appreciate the opinions in any case.