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Posts: 69
Location: Toledo | I have the opportunity to buy a 2000 Nitro with 175 OptiMax. It is a 18 foot boat with electronics in front and console, dual console and only 10 hours on the motor for 14,000. The other option is a 1997 Ranger comanche with leather seats, 175 Johnson, GPS in bow and console, dual axle trailer, but has had some repair done to the glazing for 15,000. I was wondering if either of them are a good buy?
Thanks for any input,
The Musky Shakes-Mark |
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Posts: 172
Location: Chagrin Falls, Ohio | In my opinion, I'd take the Ranger. The Nitro won't compare, even though it's a younger rig. Rangers are probably the most well built boats on the water. I wouldn't touch a 2000 Optimax either. If you choose to go with the Nitro, make sure you look at the records for the Opti. Check the ECU as well. Just my opinion for what it's worth. Good fishin', Tyler |
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Posts: 5874
| I've yet to hear of any problems with the 175 Opti's. The problems were with the 200/225's. The Opti will be easier on fuel and oil, won't smoke, and will start every time with just a turn of the key. That Johnson is carbed, will smoke unmercifully, gobble gas and oil, and will be cold blooded when it gets cold.
As far as the boat itself? Undoubtedly, Ranger is a better built boat. But I think you should look at the condition of each boat, and try to decide from there. The newer boat with the Opti should be worth more, depending on condition and accessories.
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Posts: 172
Location: Chagrin Falls, Ohio | Hey Shep, Isn't the 175 the same block as the 200 and 225? I was assuming it was. |
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Posts: 2384
Location: On the X that marks the mucky spot | I second what Shep says. You'll be MUCH happier with the opti over the Johnson (Johnsons suck!). The Ranger will be higher quality then the Nitro. The big thing is what do people typically have problems with the boat or motors? I had a 1992 Johnson and I couldn't get rid of it fast enough. I've got a new opti and I love it.
Take a test ride in each boat and see what you think and that'll be the best way to determine which one you should get. |
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Posts: 5874
| Tyler,
The 175 is the same motor as the 135 and 150. From what I hear, they have been pretty much trouble free since they came out. |
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Posts: 172
Location: Chagrin Falls, Ohio | I had the wrong info then. I have heard good things about the 135 and 150 as well. |
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Posts: 335
Location: Pulaski, WI | I have a 2003 Nitro, been very satified with the construction so far. I weight 250 lbs and the deck, seats, covers etc are rock solid. I've spend all day pulling kids water skiing with it. That being said, I haven't driven it hard on big water much. I would definitely prefer the Mercury. |
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2000 nitro