Well we went to look at and put a deposit down when we were driving and were stopped by a 2 semi, 20+ car pile up and were forced to turn around. Anyways, before I make my final decision I wanted to see if any one else has owned one and anything I should be looking for. I narrowed it down to this 92-2052, a 91-19 cuddy and another 91-19ft cuddy. I just can't seem to find any real info on that particular model (92-2052). Thanks in advance.
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I don't own a 2052, but I did own the 2160. Generally, the 20' size is very nice. The boat is large enough to have a decent size cuddy w/o cutting into the deck space. 3 or 4 people can go out on a boat this size. It will be tight, but do-able. A couple can overnight in a boat this size.
I had one with a V-8 and a fishing version with the 4 cylinder. Based on this experience, the V6 size should be the ideal engine. The smaller V8 with a 2 barrel would be better if you have a large family or plan on towing skiers quite a bit.
Generally, the Bayliners made in the 90s and early 2000 were good boats.
When evaluating a boat, you must be prepared to walk away. Don't worry, there will be another boat to look at next week.
My evaluation covers the critical issues. If Any of these areas have problems, get ready to walk away:
1) The engine needs to be in very good condition. Most of the value is in the motor. If you don't know what to look for, get a survey. The prior owner should be able to show the service records.
2) I check for soft spots. I walk the deck and bow. I pull and push on the outboard/outdrive trying to flex the transom. A boat with transom or deck rot should be avoided. Look for water stains in the cabin around the top hatch and side windows. Check for mildew. I Know I cant fix soft spots, so I walk away. Window and hatch leaks can be fixed if you're handy.
a) Get completely under the boat. Yes, look for large holes or damage. Walk away if you find damage. I saw a boat last year that had a hole crudely filled with epoxy. Not good.
3) The condition of the wiring. Particularly in salt water environments. Test all circuits. Look for on board chargers and good batteries. Most boats come with ancient electronics. I've never seen a boat sold with a current model gps/sounder.
4) Smell for gasoline in the bilge. You don't want to buy a boat with a leaking fuel tank. As well, A boat with 30 gallons of 5 year old gas will present you with disposal problems . SOmetimes gasoline smell can be traced to the carburator. Many older engines need carb rebuilds.
5) Many dealers sold boats with stout, 2 axle trailers. CHeck the brakes, tires, bunks, coupler and wiring . A few unscrupulous dealers would slide the boat on the thinnest, single axle trailer. A boat with a weak trailer is dangerous.
6) A boat with a lot of furniture on deck may have weathered IF the boat was left outside without a cover. Extra Points for a boat that was inside or covered. If the furniture is water damaged, it will fall apart pretty quickly when used.
7) Look for proper care. Boats can suffer if abused. Even an expert can get a ding. Did the prior owner tear up the boat, or, did he expertly repair the few issues?
8) Lastly, Sometimes you go out looking at a lot of boats. YOU think you know what you want, but actually you don't. The better plan is to go to the lake or harbor and look at how people are using their boats. Look at what they're using. A good place to start is to talk with experienced owner who are boating in your area. They can tell you how their boat meets their needs for your particular waterway. Do you agree with their findings?
a) For very small lakes, a light aluminum skiff with an 8 hp motor may be the ideal. Oceans may require a deep V fishing boat. A 20' runabout may be ideal for everything in between.
*** Be aware of the emotional side. Sometimes you find a boat that you just love. Nothing else matters. The countless hours fixing it, or high gas bill will not be a problem *** This is important as well. For me, I love the late 90s Trophy boats. Ill have one in my yard til they bury me.
This 96 had a rebuilt motor. The finish was like the day they made it. No rot. Nice safety railings had been added. Trailer, new tires, brakes bunks. The prior owner loved this boat and took good care of it.
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