looking for advise

[red20]

I have owned (2) 20' SC, 1977 and 1983, rebuilt both and recently sold them. I have been on the look out for a 23' w/ jackshaft. Posted a few months ago and learned there were only 7 built. I am now looking into 23's w/ i/o power. There is one for sale in my area.(see link at bottom) and one on this site up in NJ. Do the i/o's have transom issues like my 20's w/ outboards? What else other than the obvious should I consider when looking? I know the normal Sea Craft quirks w/ OB power to look for. Any guidenance would be appreciated.
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/3/0/86581930.htm

[FELLOW-SHIP]

I would say any time you drill holes through a wood laminated transom you can have problems. In addition to that when your propulsion systems uses the transom for support in pushing your boat you will have concerns. It isn’t a matter of If but When.

FellowShip

_______________________________________________

My motto: Just for the Grins

[oldfielder]

I love my I/o for the ride. You definitely have your head in the engine compartment a little more than you'd like at times. The think rides like a tank-think about how much further forward that 900 pounds is-my guess is that it has some impact on the hull's ride.
I think my transom is a little wet, but I have a feeling it's from other places. My guess is that the i/o stresses the transom a lot less than an o/b because of the setup of the transom assembly. There's also a pretty serious seal there if the thing is installed correctly.
I've looked into repower just for curiosity and it looks like I can get my merc 250 hp for about six when the conditions are right-add a few more grand for a new outdrive if you need one.
Everything has its tradeoffs, but so far I've been very happy with this rig.
Good luck.
That Jersey boat looks nice.

[red20]

thanks for the comments

[Water Rat]

Red20,
Try giving Metan Marine a call in Rockland, MA. Ask for Mike, he seems to be making quite a name for himself in the SeaCraft restoration business. I've talked with him about doing my own boat (hasn't happened yet-my own fault) but noticed he had a 23' jackshaft in his yard. Not sure if he is selling or not, but probably worth a call. Sorry, should have looked up the # before if made this post. Should be easy to find - if not, please pm me and I will find it for you. Good luck.
Chris

[red20]

Thanks for the spy report. I'll look up the number and call. kepp you posted.

[Miles Offshore]

a friend of mine had one back in the mid-eighties. beautiful boat but he had some problems with "U" joints- nothing to serious i dont think though.