1996 Rage 18 with Ford 351

[jordanwalker1531]

I'm looking at buying one, and would appreciate any advice/warnings you folks have. Here are some photos: http://imgur.com/a/EnSUH

[jimh]

Warning--beware of the damaged area on the hull bottom near the bow stem; there appears to have been complete abrasion of all gel coat resin in that area. I'd consider that abuse and evidence of poor care.

[jordanwalker1531]

Thanks, jimh. Do you think that could have been someone not understanding how the jet drive boats handle compared to prop? Hit a dock? I was nervous about the same thing, but the rest of the boat looks so clean I wasn't sure what to think.

[jimh]

Maybe the boat was just beat up on the trailer. Is the damage near the bow eye attachment?

If that is the only obvious defect in the hull, it can be repaired. Allot $500 for a professional to fix it.

[jordanwalker1531]

Other than cracks in the gel coat it's very clean. I bet the damage was from putting it on the trailer. There's one other punch above the water line on the port side towards the stern but that's been patched.