[Blue_Heron]

I have an '83 20sf with a 96 200 Merc. These Seacraft Industries hulls are 8" longer and possibly a bit heavier in the bow than the Potter hulls.

As far as their durability, I would say it's just as good. As with any boat this age, you will want to check the deck and top cap for soft spots especially around fastening points for console, leaning post, T-top, and hardware. Also trim the motor up and stand on the cavitation plate and bounce up and down. If the transom has any flex at all, it probably needs work.

Merc engines are pretty durable, too. I'm not familiar with the Mercs older than 1990, but I think they were 2.0 liter blocks. In the early 90s they went to a 2.4 liter, then a 2.5. If it's got good compression on all cylinders and they're within 5lbs or so of each other, it should be fine. Just understand that the savings in first cost on an old motor will have a trade off in repair and maintenance costs. One other thing to check is the steering arm. If it's considerably rusted and pitted, it may be ready to fail. On the Mercs, at least the '90s V6s, you have to pull the powerhead to replace the swivel pin/steering arm, so it's bout a $1,000 repair unless you can do it yourself.

Good Luck,
Dave