Your Thoughts??? ★★★ 1991 Four Winns 170 Freedom ★★★ - $6500

Tom R · **Posted:** Mon May 13, 2013 5:13 pm

Here is a craigslist link to a 1991 Four Winns 170 Freedom.

Some of you may have read my earlier post where I speak of a new boat to use both is a very small lake where we have a cabin...and for "bigger" water where I would take out 7-8 family members to "boat" for day trips. Well, I think the two uses are perhaps not compatible and was wondering if the attached might be a good boat for the cabin...and I could decide after that use if a different, larger boat might make sense for us also. Kind of a low cost trial run that might just end up being a cabin boat in the long run...with or without a newer/bigger boat in the future?

This looks like a VERY clean '91. Note that the size and HP are not a problem with our small lake as boat rides are usually 10-20 minutes and the lake is less than a mile long and 1/2 mile wide.

Question is maintenance and repair/replacement risk of this particular model/engine and drive? The Bayliner site seems to have an ongoing dispute about the worthiness and reliability of the post 1987 OMC units? What are the words of wisdom on this particular model/engine/drive? Even though it all looks very clean what could the hidden risks cost and how can you "find" them. It was serviced at a local marina each fall/spring for what that is worth? do not want to spend $3-$4K to make up for deferred maintenance.

Also, is $6500 high for a 22 year old 17'...clean though it may be? Thanks...Tom R

ric · **Posted:** Mon May 13, 2013 5:29 pm

What's with the really high prices lately???

That's insane price. For 6500 you can get a 2000 H180 with a 4.3. That 1991 170 is worth maybe $2000 in mint condition.

Tom R · **Posted:** Mon May 13, 2013 5:33 pm

I found in the "older" model search that the wood structure is also a main concern. What about the drive train...assuming price could be substantially reduced? BTW...does look clean and otherwise well taken care of?? Tom R

ric · **Posted:** Mon May 13, 2013 5:44 pm

ric wrote:

What's with the really high prices lately???

That's insane price. For 6500 you can get a 2000 H180 with a 4.3. That 1991 170 is worth maybe $2000 in mint condition.

Tom R wrote:

I found in the "older" model search that the wood structure is also a main concern. What about the drive train...assuming price could be substantially reduced? BTW...does look clean and otherwise well taken care of?? Tom R

Keep looking. You want something 1998+. Better construction. Modern drivetrain. And you'll still be at a 6500 budget for something really nice

LouC · **Posted:** Mon May 13, 2013 7:51 pm

I'd have to agree with ric on this one, I have one of those older boats and the wood construction can be a real problem if it was not stored inside. Also if it is an OMC Cobra, it can be tough to find mechanics who can set up the somewhat tricky shift linkage and some parts are hard to find, esp for the ones with the 2.3 Ford 4 cylinder engine.

fiznuka · **Posted:** Mon May 13, 2013 9:40 pm

I paid $6500 for mine and its a '96. I don't think you will be happy with anything smaller than 20'. I have a family of four and still think mine is too small. Don't rush your purchase the right boat will come along. :wink:

Maybe wait until after memorial and see what happens.

DougT01 · **Joined:** Wed May 20, 2015 6:44 pm **Posts:** 121

I just bought a 2003 170 Freedom in April 2015 for $6700.
Is pretty much in mint condition. Canvas, vinyl and gel coat all good. New full cover in addition to snap on bow and cockpit covers.
It came with a 2005 Load Rite galvanized trailer.
90hp Johnson OB

The tires were 10 years old so I replaced them and had to replace seals in the trailer bearings.

Got it from an older gentleman at the end of the winter season in Florida. Always stored inside at Marina, courtesy launched and flushed after each use. Estimated 150 hours.

So far she runs like a champ.

FYI,
Doug

ric · **Posted:** Wed May 20, 2015 8:08 pm

My buddy just bought a 1998 Monterey 18ft bowrider in perfect condition for $2200 cash. Literally 30 minutes ago. It's already back forsale for $4500

rpengr · **Posted:** Thu May 21, 2015 9:11 am

I think that for price you could find a late 1996-2002 Horizon 180 with 4.3L 6 cylinder. Much better resale than the 4 cylinder.

Jdpber · **Posted:** Thu May 21, 2015 9:57 am

17 is way too small

www.iFourWinns.com

Your Thoughts??? ★★★ 1991 Four Winns 170 Freedom ★★★ - $6500

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