Help Needed!!!! Alumaweld Boat Options

Rip'N'Lips · 08-05-2002, 01:05 PM

All-

I am in need of a bigger boat. I currently have a 15' Smokercraft and want to move up to a larger Alumaweld. Here is my problem. I have to store said boat in my garage and I think that a 19'-20' is the biggest I can go. I would really like a 19' Super Vee Pro however they have discontinued this model, so I am considering a 19' Super Vee LS, or a 18 or 20' Super Vee LT. I want to be able to fish the Clackamas, and at the same time the Willamette/Columbia. I am not in love with the LS because they seem a little too light weight. I like the coaming gunnel on the LT and bigger fish box!!!

Does anyone have any experience with the LT? How bad is the ride of a 6 degree in Columbia chop?

Any and all opinions would be appreciated, current Alumaweld owners especially.

Thanks,

Rip"N"Lips

Troller · 08-05-2002, 01:29 PM

I purchased a 22 foot formula vee with the out board braket out back and with the trailer and boat I am at about 32 feet. Of course I have a 30 x 36 detached garage so I went back and had them put a folding tounge on it so I could close the garage door and it still has to be at an angle accross the double wide door but not to bad of an angle. So make sure you consider the trailer and then how far the motor will stick out. Love the boat all is working great with it . I have heard that the less deadrise you have the rougher it is going to be I got mine with a 18 degree but my fishing is in lakes and the puget sound.

Killertraylor · 08-05-2002, 02:07 PM

I always wince when I see someone is going to buy a new Alumaweld. Not because of the boat, but because of the price. I don't mean to change the subject of this thread, as I hope you get the information you need, but has anyone else had the same experience as me? When I bought my 23' North River (full hard-top, 250 Yamaha Saltwater and 15 horse honda) I got price quotes of $49,000 from North River, $50,000 from Motion Marine, $49,000 from Willie, $50,000 from Northwest Jet and $61,500 from Alumaweld! Maybe I didn't go to the right dealership - or are they traditionally 20% more expensive than the others? I'm not trying to knock Alumaweld - I think they make a great boat, which is why I got a quote from them, but I was so stunned by their price quote that I had to ask you other ifishers what your experience was.

Ed C · 08-05-2002, 02:47 PM

For storage you can get a removable tongue.

I have a l9ft super vee LS. It's OK. Not perfect. This is my 6th boat. They are all compromises.

Ed C.

willierower · 08-05-2002, 02:59 PM

Dont buy an Alumaweld.......................

TheRogue · 08-05-2002, 03:48 PM

Don't buy an Alumaweld. They're FINE boats, don't get me wrong!!! But if you care at all about money, look at some of the other builders out there and you may be very surprised at what comes standard on everyone else's boat, and what's an option on an Alumaweld, and at a lower price.

Of course with the Alumaweld, you have the security of knowing that there's dealers pretty much everywhere in the NW, so if you're on the road, you don't have to worry about getting back to Medford to get it fixed!!

By the way, 6 degree bottom is barely better than a flat bottom!!!!

kyle

Rip'N'Lips · 08-05-2002, 03:55 PM

So, everyone is saying no to Alumaweld who then?

Jetcraft is going under, and I have heard the same rumors about Weldcraft.

Northriver is struggling, and having problems getting credit with Yamaha....

It seems like the only one I can see doing well is Alumaweld.

From a service standpoint, I hate Alumaweld. I have a driftboat and every question I have makes me think they know nothing...

I was impressed when I spoke to Willie boats... anyone have one of their sleds?

Let's open this up. What should I buy?????

08-05-2002, 03:57 PM

Willy or Fish Rite are both well built.

Scott B · 08-05-2002, 04:05 PM

Well, I own an Alumaweld. But it is not one of the fancier models. It is a stryker. It does everything that I need it to do at this point. I have a good friend that has a new fishrite, he likes it alot. It is a 20 footer but says that he is looking to upgrade to a 22 to 23 ft of the same model. I have done some looking around and from what I have seen and for a price that is very comparable my wife and I are probably going to go with a motion marine. We had a bad experience with a geek from northriver and it turned us off completely with their boats. Although I realy like the style of the fishrites.

Pitch Pocket · 08-05-2002, 04:14 PM

I've had my alumaweld 19' vs for 12 years. It has been excellent. I struck a good deal for the boat and it was a fair price. It has been reliable and problem free except for normal wear and tear. Hearing the horror stories about the other manufacturers just confirms my choice.

The company is strong and will be around in 10 years when you need something. You can buy the cheapest boat, but will they be in business in the future? Can they really afford to repair your boat correctly after they hack it together and it leaks?

I have nothing bad to say about Alumaweld. I think you get what you pay for.

boater · 08-05-2002, 04:39 PM

[img]graemlins/lurk.gif[/img]

monoman · 08-05-2002, 05:16 PM

Rip
I think they will make you a 19 ft pro, it is a geat three person boat.
Cost on a boat is no different than cost on any large hole in the water. I can buy a nice house at $120 a sq foot, I have friends that built at $340 a sq foot, their house is nice. Do you own a Dodge truck or did you step up to the new Chevy with the duramax, are they the same thing just different cost! AWB builds a nice boat, I have one. The fact is you will love any boat you buy, because you can't tell your wife you are unhappy with the new 25k to 45K toy you just bought. Everyone here is in the same boat, we have to love them, they don't wear out. Enjoy, and add everything you can think of to your new toy.....your doing your part for unemployment.

08-05-2002, 05:44 PM

Killertraylor, I would like to see a picture of your boat if you have one. You dont see many NR with full hard tops out there. I may have see you on the Mult. Channel during Springer season. Nice ride :grin:

Fool

Rip'N'Lips · 08-05-2002, 05:45 PM

The 19' Pro is discontinued. I can order one and have it in March/April of next year... or I can pay full price for a 21' have them chop 2 feet off it and have it in November...

It kind of feels like which leg do you want us to chop off, right or left......

08-05-2002, 05:46 PM

I love my NR and havent heard they were struggling like you say. Have you looked at NW Jet? They make a nice ride also.

Fool

fishbait · 08-05-2002, 06:01 PM

Have an 18 LT, good boat. Also know of a 20 ft lt for sale, used, has already taken delevery of his 23. 6 degree bottom is close to flat as you know, might suggest 12 or more if Columbia is your major river. You are welcome to take mine for a test ride sometime if you want.

TyeeTom · 08-05-2002, 06:09 PM

I bought a Northriver last March and love it. But I would love to hear more from Rip N Lips as to how NR is struggling what he knows about their credit problems with Yamaha. I love the boat but am having major problems with NR PDX regarding financing. They have screwed-up the paperwork more ways than I can count. And the hassles continue.....

Salmonator · 08-05-2002, 06:12 PM

My 22 footer was a 12 degree, and I would imagine a 6 degree would be an absolutely hideous ride in any kind of chop. The only reason I could think of for buying a 6 degree is for running extremely shallow rivers. And if it came down to the difference between 12 and 6 degrees to make it up, I would say stay the heck off that river anyways because your margin of error is so slim that it doesn't make sense to put a high dollar boat in that position in the first place. After buying my 22 footer new, the only real advice I can give is to wait and find the right boat used unless you have money falling out your aft side... Joe

highwater · 08-05-2002, 06:17 PM

I had a smokercraft 15'. good boat.
I had a Alumaweld ,16 super V, 6 degree bottom, it would track very well when trolling and when you were on anchor it did ok, this spring I got a new Intruder 14 degree SJ, not as nice to fish out of when your trolling but when you want to move it goes quick and my eyes do not water. I had a motion marine for a short time, was not a good expierence for me, I had alot of money in that boat and it was not working for me, that will put a knot in your gut. I also have a Willie drift boat and I got it in 1990 and when I do use it, It is a great drift boat. My Alumaweld is a great boat.
I know they will be here tomorrow also, they do not give anything away, but they have fixed anything that needed fixing and that has not been much of anything.
Good luck on your picking out a boat, don't let anyone tell you what to buy, unless they want to pay for it.

Lepper · 08-05-2002, 06:32 PM

I have the 19 ft stryker the "lesser" model, and I love it. No problems, has a 14degree bottom and I love it. I have taken it into some pretty nasty water and it will bounce but It does pretty good.. and yoru more then welcome to take mine for a test drive if you want..

pics are here

www.westonunlimited.com/pics/boat.jpg

Empire · 08-05-2002, 06:42 PM

I agree with the others who say to look at the other manufacturers, and take it one step further and test drive each boat that interests you. I spent about 6 months talking with dealers and folks at the docks. I finally got a Fish Rite. The company is smaller than some of the others, but the quality is there and the price is competitive. I had to get the boat and trailer into a 21 foot garage. I got an 18 foot boat with an outboard and it fits fine. One note about the removeable tongues: If you get surge brakes get a swing tongue, not removeable so you dont have to deal with a dripping brake line disconnect.

MarlinMark · 08-05-2002, 06:59 PM

If you want a sled buy a BoiceJet. If you want a drift boat buy a Willie.

Mark

Rip'N'Lips · 08-05-2002, 07:03 PM

[ 08-05-2002, 08:36 PM: Message edited by: Rip'N'Lips ]

Uncle Roman · 08-05-2002, 07:51 PM

http://www.kofflerboats.com/ I have been looking at sleds awhile now, and Koffler is close to my house (sort of). All the ones I've seen are beautifully crafted, and I look at welds all day at work. Get a recent price/option list and see what they can do for you. Or, what about Boulton? Keep looking and decide when you are ready and able, and not a minute before. :smile:

08-05-2002, 07:55 PM

[img]graemlins/hearton.gif[/img] Koffler Boats [img]graemlins/hearton.gif[/img]

John · 08-05-2002, 08:22 PM

First of all Alumaweld is not anymore expensive then the guys that like to joy ride the Clack. In fact when it comes time to deal I think you can beat Alumaweld down more then the other dealers. Also Alumaweld has a great resale and good customer service. Does any other of the boat dealers own the boat builder, trailer builder, and the dealer? No I don't think so. So to get to the point, I own a 2001 18' Super vee LT and love it. It does not ride to rough and is awesome on the Clack. It will run less water then the big heavy boats. It is very responsive and has a tiller handle. By the way it cost 21,000 and not 40,000 to 50,000. If you want a test ride I live in Milwaukie and would be happy to take you out any night. Send me a Email.

THE KIWANDA KID · 08-05-2002, 08:29 PM

R-N-L , here is some advice from a former salesman of said boat. Pick a degree of boat to the waters you will fish the most or you will be unhappy. Pick a price and stick to it give or take several thousand. (just kidding) but have a good idea where your comfort zone is. Take everyone up on the offer to run their boats. Do not be afraid to tell any dealer they want to much for the boat you want but be prepared to explain why with WRITEN quotes on other boats VERY much the same. This will make a beliver out of the sales manager as long as you are ready to write a check. Options are options and will be options later if you can't afford them now. Not all factory options are what you really want anyway. Do not finance your purchase thru the dealership and if they ask you to fill out a credit app. only agree if they will FULLY disclose the findings such as your score. Remember financing is something they SELL not provide for free and it affects your final price. As for said boat you can feel comfortable on longevity, performance, resale,factory support and depending on the dealer service. AWB has a huge dealer network but they also have protected territories so shopping for price can be a challenge but just about all of them will have a non current model on the lot and this can be the ace in the hole when it comes to getting the price you want ,just be careful how you play the card.Ihope you find the boat you want and enjoy it for years to come.Good luck!

fishnxtc · 08-05-2002, 08:40 PM

I am a current Alumaweld owner. If you would like reason why to not buy alumaweld email me. If you want poor customer service after the purchase go ahead a buy alumaweld.

Rip'N'Lips · 08-05-2002, 08:42 PM

John-

Tell me about your 18' LT. They have one on the lot that I think I could deal on. Do you fish the Willamette or Columbia? How about any of the bays.

I have done Yaquina bay in the afternoon in a 17' Sylvan and it was rough, but doable. I am not buying a fiberglass boat so I don't expect that kind of ride. I am young, but will my kidneys hate me if I have a 6 degree in the bay/lower Columbia????

08-05-2002, 08:51 PM

[img]graemlins/lurk.gif[/img]

Fool :grin:

rags · 08-05-2002, 09:08 PM

I have a 19ft Super Vee I bought used last year. I was shopping for a new sled and was lucky to find this one. If you have never owned a sled I would suggest buying used. I have never had a problem with Alumaweld or their service department. They have always gone out of their way to make things right. They make great boats and the SuperVee is the most versatile boat out there. I run the Clackamas, Willamette and Columbia out to buoy 10 with no problems. The 12 degree will give you a good ride in chop and run shallow water. Make sure if you buy used to check out the trailer for rust. I had to buy a new one which is now galvanized. If you want a ride or need more info send me an e-mail.

Silver Hilton · 08-05-2002, 09:10 PM

I'm with Jettin' fool. I have a North River 19' with a Sportjet. I have about 40 trips on my boat after a year, and I have nothing but good to say about it. Good customer service, good price when I bought it, and no problems.

I think Alumaweld makes a solid boat. They have to, or they wouldn't be in business. In power boats, however, they just don't have the fit, finish, and details thought out as well as either North River, Duckworth ($$$) or Thunderjet. I don't think you'll hurt yourself getting an Alumaweld, but I do believe there are better boats to be had. Hope you look around.

John · 08-05-2002, 09:48 PM

Ripn'lips I fish my boat every where. I fish Astoria,Tillamook, and Nehalem in the Fall. I fish the Santiam,Sandy, and Clack in the winter for steelhead. Fish the Columbia at Bonneville and Chinook landing for springers in march and the first of April. By the second week of April I fish the Willamette and Clack. I have been up on the Santiam just below the Dam or deadline when a North River could only dream of going up there. By the way hooked 15 native steelies on bobber and jig that day. It is a awesome sled and have not had any problems with the boat. Had one problem with the Merc Stevens got me in rite away and took care of me. Also had a short in my fish finder and they also got that fixed rite away. No questions asked they just did it. As far as the ride in the boat it is not bad at all. Although I do stand to drive my sled, it is a tiller handle. Use to have a 16' flat bottom and this boat is like riding on air compared to it. On the rivers it is great. If you want to go for a ride let me know. I am going to fish out of Hammond on Thursday I will save you a seat if you let me know rite away. I will also be at Nehalem this weekend and would n't mind hooking up then either. I will be fishin all weekend, and if not any day through thursday we can run on the Willamette if you are intrested. I think that you would be very happy with this boat. Futhermore, my dad has a twenty foot Willies with a wind shield and yes it does ride better, but it is a lot heavier boat. I think this makes a big difference between open sleds and boats. The boats are not as easy too fish out of and are tough to boondoggle or side drift out of. They do seam to ride better though. It depends on what kind of fishin you are into. If you like to side drift, drift bobber and jig, drift fish, or fish when the water is skinny then the open 18' is the way to go. If you like to ancor fish then the top on the boat sure is nice. I personally hate ancor fishing it is to slow for me. But my dad loves it. Anyway this is just the tip of the iceburg I could go on and on, if you are intrested in thte ride let me know I am only about five minutes away from Clackamette park it would be no problem to go for a ride. If you want to fish let me know rite away. Also, the only draw back that I have had in my sled is that it can fish up to for but it is very tight. It fishes three very comfortably, If you are going to fish four very often then go with the twenty one foot. The twenty has a 115 on it and the 21' sled I believe can handle up to a 200. A 175 would more then likely be just fine.

Salmonator · 08-05-2002, 09:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by John:
I have been up on the Santiam just below the Dam or deadline when a North River could only dream of going up there. By the way hooked 15 native steelies on bobber and jig that day.

<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helv">Sorry to get off topic, but which Santiam were you on when you hooked 15 natives and what time of year?

John · 08-05-2002, 10:12 PM

North Santiam at the end of Feb. or Early march. The river was very very low and gin clear. All fish were hooked below the dealine starting at the tailout and we worked are way up to the deadline. We hooked fish all through out the tail out. All fish were released unharmed and in the water released. Also, every fish was hooked on a beumack? SMJ#2 jig under floats. They would not take anything else. This is the first time I had ever hooked fish on bobber and jigs and am now a HUGE believer in them. Those Santiam steelies must have averaged around twelve pounds of pure muscle.

John · 08-05-2002, 10:17 PM

Oh and by the way a open north river sled might have made it. If the driver knew which slot to hit within a foot. A friend of mine crashed his shoe just a few days before. There is now way a big boat could have made it. Even the boat dealers and proguides will tell you that a open lite sled will run smaller shallower water then the big water jet boat will.

Gone Fishin · 08-05-2002, 10:25 PM

Why not buy the best and support Ifish sponsers?

John · 08-05-2002, 10:39 PM

Hey I do not disagee with the last post at all. Wilies KICK ASS!!!!!!! I own a alumaweld and it is a great boat, and my dad owns a Willie it is awesome. I have owned two Willie drift boats and one sled and they are great boats. But the support if you have a problem, which pops did have, can be a problem. Their is not a local dealer to take your boat to if you have a motor or boat issue. In fact, I would have had a Willie if the sales rep would only have returned my three phone calls to them. In fact two or three of the people or sales people that work for North River in Clackamas run Willie boats.

Backlash2 · 08-06-2002, 04:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by John:
[In fact two or three of the people or sales people that work for North River in Clackamas run Willie boats.[/QB]

<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helv">Has anybody told Willie this???

My guess is he would probably be interested.... [img]graemlins/stupid.gif[/img]

ReelMcCoy · 08-06-2002, 05:21 AM

I looked at boats for three years weighing the pros and cons. In my search I found a gentlemen who worked for VanWeld and his coment was to stay away from Alumaweld boats. They got a lot of boats in that had the welds on the ribs broken. This may have been from abuss but the fact remains they only repaired Alumawelds and not because they are a service center. The rest of the boats may have the same problem and are taken some where else. Or maybe there are just more Alumawelds out there thus more to repair. I don't know.
For my money no one could match Thunderjets price and standard options even when I went back and talked with Stevens,Clemens,Motion Marine and Staff Jennings and told them what I was looking at. This was at a boat show and they went and looked at the boat I bought.

The bottom line is there are a lot of good boats out there look at all of them.

Good Luck

Troller · 08-06-2002, 05:24 AM

In reading this I needed to pipe back in. Their is absolutly nothing wrong with alumaweld in my opinion. I love mine and as for price someone stated up above that their 23 foot NR cost $49,000 and if you wanted the same thing the alumaweld would be $60000. Mine is a 22 foot formula Vee with outboard bracket, 200 merc, .250 bottom 15 honda rigid frame soft top doesnt fold down and just about everything else and I paid $8,500 less than he did for the NR. Find a dealer who will work with you. Buy during the boat shows if you can. You will pay more if you want a custom boat so buy of the show room floor. Customer service is a function of the dealer you purchase your boat from as far as alumaweld goes and the place I purchased mine from has been great. Tho I was tryng to get ahold of alumaweld directly and they dont post any info for that. I would say that is the only thing I see is a problem. but the dealer allways handles anything I need. If you want to take a look at my boat go to the alumaweld website or cataloge and turn to the formula vee section the green 22 foot boat is the one I purchased they made it custom for their 2002 cataloge.

TheRogue · 08-06-2002, 05:24 AM

I think Alumaweld wouldn't have quite such a bad reputation if if wasn't for many of the horror stories about dealing with Stevens Marine. It seems that with most dealers/builders, problems occur, but infrequently. With Stevens, problems seem to be the rule, not the exception.

I've heard nothing but good things about 3RiversMarine, if you're going to stay with Alumaweld.

Troller · 08-06-2002, 06:35 AM

Three rivers marine is where I purchased mine of course I do live about 60 miles from them.

Myles · 08-06-2002, 06:48 AM

Might as well look here too.
http://www.boultonpowerboats.com/index.htm
I spent 6 days at the boat show this year and wound up with a Boulton. I thought they had the best built for the dollar, my only regret is I wish I would have got the 20' instead of the 18'.

myles

Killertraylor · 08-06-2002, 07:46 AM

Well, looks like I kinda turned this into a short NR boat thread - but I'm glad that Rip is hearing this stuff. The long and the short of it is there are many good boat builders out there, we all have our "top 5" and there is a boat to suit every fishing need. Hopefully you'll go around and get quotes and information from at least 3 or 4 boat builders before you make your choice. We are certainly blessed with many choices living in the Northwest. One that I haven't seen mentioned is Motion Marine - I looked at their manufacturing in process and think they make a real nice boat, I just didn't get a good vibe from the owner when he started trashing NR. They are here in Portland though and you can go look at them being built and get a quote.

Jet'n fool - I've got some pictures of my NR on my hard drive at home (and I'm posting this from work) and I'll e-mail it to you. I used to have a picture posted on ifish here, but I can't find where they keep them anymore? It's blue with a gold hard-top. You most definitely saw me on the Mult. channel this spring - I live in Warren and put in a lot of days there and I can't recall seeing another full hardtop NR there this year so you probably saw me. Thanks for the compliment - on the boat's first trip to the Rogue two weeks ago we counted 14 "nice boat" compliments on Saturday. If they only knew how hard it was to keep a hard-top trolling straight in the wind!

I too have not heard of any financial troubles with NR. I'd be very suprised based on the number of new NR's I see every time I go fishing. The only problem I've had with mine is a dead battery that wouldn't re-charge (not NR's fault) but they replaced it with a new one, no questions asked, after 1 year and 8 months of ownership. Good luck Rip - if you'd like to take a look at my NR, it's moored in Chinook - slip D55. Go ahead and climb aboard and look around.

Killertraylor · 08-06-2002, 07:53 AM

Troller - actually I said NR quoted me $49,000. I actually got them down to $44,500, which is still a few thousand more than you paid for your Alumaweld. Alumaweld quoted me $8500 for the full hard top which was most of the difference in price. Also, the 250 Yamaha Saltwater series runs about $3500 more than your 200 Merc. so we're still in the same ballpark comparing apples to apples. I had a custom transom built also with a tiny splashwell so you can walk back on both sides of the outboard to fight fish - probably the equivalent in cost as your outboard motor bracket. Sounds like you got a real nice boat!

WaterDog · 08-06-2002, 08:32 AM

At the risk of getting verbally abused from �Hacksaw� Roy,

I�ll stand up for Mark and Motion Marine. Mark and I get along just fine. When I bought my first MM I went to Stevens Marine to price a kicker and when I told the sales geek what boat I had he proceeded to trash MM. They all trash talk. I am on my second MM and couldn�t be happier. First boat was a prop, current one is an outback. Quality is first rate and service has been excellent. For an 18 foot boat I have lots of room. I like the almost 8 foot beam and the outback is sweet. It's a big bonus to see your boat being built as well. I like the fact that I could see the hull bracing and floor structure and talk to the guys building her. I do a ton of anchor fishing so a windshield is a must. It�s a pretty good all around boat for me. Pay attention to the little things like the width of the tackle trays, top construction, gages, seat options, storage, etc.

The bottom line is that it is your choice and as long as your happy with what you choose, it dosent matter what you drive. Good luck.

Rip'N'Lips · 08-06-2002, 09:51 AM

John-

I would be very interested in hooking up with you for a ride in your LT... however my wife had knee surgery last Thursday, so I am atleast a week away from being free...

Also, has anyone dealt with Clemens in Eugene? They have a 20' LT with a 130 Honda on it.

How are the Honda Jet's? Let me know...

Thanks for all the opinions. I have a lot of research to do before I make my final decision....

Hanapa'a Time · 08-06-2002, 12:08 PM

Started with a 16' Duckworth open, what a wet, squirrely ride! Only eight months in my possession.
Had the 19' Willie Predator for 10 years, center console with Yamahas. Never a problem with the boat or motors. Fished everything from Columbia, Crane, and big blue. Lotsa hours and fish!!! Great boat for three people and gear. Dry, stable and tracked very well.
Drove a Super Vee, in it's first year of production, harsher ride, about the same money with less features.
Now, with a family, moved up to a 21' Maxxum forward helm inboard.

Good Luck on your purchase!!!! Kurt

k9jeff · 08-06-2002, 12:09 PM

I have an old alumaweld, its been knocked around on the rivers a tad, but works great for me.
You might try ALLEN MARINE in SALEM.

They have always been helpful and easy to deal with. They know I am not gonig to be buying a new boat anytime soon, but when I go there to purchase small things they treat me with respect and give me the time of day.
I have had a couple bad contacts with Stevens Marine and they will never get my money.

Hanapa'a Time · 08-06-2002, 12:25 PM

Rip,
I live just north of Eugene.
Clemens is one of the reasons why I bought the Willie and now have the Maxxum. You might get a good deal??? The options were going to nickel and dime me to death! In the last go-around the salesman didn't bother calling me back! Sure I asked a lot of questions, but when one spends 40k it better be what they want!
Don't know if their Portland store is much better?? They just built a new showroom down here, have to pay for it somehow.

Just my own experiences, Kurt

Pitch Pocket · 08-06-2002, 12:32 PM

If you want to keep your boat in the garage, you should pay attention to overall width including the trailer.

I had Alumaweld make the trailer the same width as the boat. Normally, they make them about 1' wider. My 7-1/2' beam VS would have been 8-1/2' wide and would have a hard time sharing the garage. With the wider bottoms today, your trailer width may be 9'. That won't fit in a single car garage and would pretty much hog a 16' door.

To make it the same width as the boat, they raised the boat on the trailer a few inches and narrowed the wheelbase. It works great and it stays on it's own side of the garage.

The only disadvantage is the boat sits higher on the trailer. I've never had a problem launching at shallow ramps, but it would be easier if it was lower. That said, I keep it in the garage way more than I launch shallow ramps. I can put up with the minor inconvenience.

TheRogue · 08-06-2002, 02:00 PM

Quote:

You might try ALLEN MARINE in SALEM.

<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helv">I second that...I bought my Intruder there, and have been back for small things, and they've always got the time to talk about whatever you want to!!

Rip'N'Lips · 08-06-2002, 03:03 PM

All-

I received an email request from Jennie forwarded from a boat dealer who shall remain nameless that my statements were negatively impacting their business.

For the record, my statements were made after speaking to a dealer who shall remain nameless (unless I am sued in which case I will tell all) and were likely nothing more that corporate bs... I retract my comments and apologize for any damage they may have done.

BUT!!!! To all dealers who read this board. . If I were to see 50 posts of complaints about every manufacturer in a given industy and their lack of service, I would resolve to offer the best service possible. I would be certain that everytime a customer/prospect walked onto my lot I gave them a positive experience without slamming their current boat or other boats on the market.

Let your product and services lead the way....

husker · 08-06-2002, 03:51 PM

R-n-L--- amen to that.....serve your customers right or be subject to "Karma"

karma from websters--The doctrine of fate as the inflexible result of cause and effect; the theory of inevitable consequence.

John · 08-06-2002, 05:22 PM

I don't know if Willie knows this or not, but I do for sure. I know this because we bought a Willie boat from the person that is selling North River at the dealership. In fact two of the sales people worked for South River Marine. Also the Yamaha mechanic did as well. Before South River went down, North River was not a Yamaha dealer. I guess everybody needs a job.

John · 08-06-2002, 05:29 PM

Ripn'lips when you are ready to go just let me know. I'll be more then happy to take you. I am not sure about the Honda motors with jets. I have heard mixed things on the motors. Some people that have them really like them. A friend of mine had a newer 9.9 that just blew up on him three weeks ago at Nehalem. I do know that the Yamaha motors are awesome. My dad has two on his boat and never had a problem. Also, a friend of mine had a 50 hp on a 15 1/5' Willie and it was a good motor. The Yamaha 6hp kickers are very nice, electric start and power tilt. I have started to notice that guys are putting this model on their boats even if the main motor is a different make.

fishbait · 08-06-2002, 06:40 PM

I have fished with Brad from Allen Marine in Salem and I think he is a stand up guy. Long time there and a good reputation, and a pretty good fisherman. Definately a straight shooter.........Nuff said

WaterDog · 08-06-2002, 08:37 PM

Which Brad are we talking about? Brad Allen is a good guy. :smile: As for the other Brad, the jury is still out.

TH · 08-06-2002, 08:50 PM

I shopped for a full year before I bought my 22' Willie Predator.

I became very frustrated with Alumaweld when I was after a quote and selection of options I wanted.

With Willie, Mike asked some simple questions and allowed me to ask a ton of stupid questions and then answered everyone!

Buying a custom built boat allows you the freedom to add/subtact the options you want... not just buy a package boat off the lot. Sure I had to wait six months, but it was worth it.

I look at NR, they didn't have the uni-rail which I love!!! and they were about $2000 higher on the same boat.

The three AWB dealers I spoke to wanted to talk me into the 200 Merc pump insead of my 115 4 stroke prop.. they all thought a pump was better? Not for me...

Look at Willie !