88 ski Nautique
Printed From: CorrectCraftFan.com
Category: General Correct Craft Discussion
Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Discription: Anything Correct Craft
URL: http://www.CorrectCraftFan.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=48828
Printed Date: March-05-2025 at 10:30pm
Topic: 88 ski Nautique
Posted By: Bolin
Subject: 88 ski Nautique
Date Posted: June-09-2020 at 8:44pm
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Is an 88 Nautique, with a great interior and motor with a faded exterior worth 7k? Looking at one, everything seams solid, floor, stringers, upholstery, except the exterior gel coat is faded. I’m slightly obsessed with these older models, dual exhaust and just the overall look. Just don’t want to overpay. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks |
Replies:
Posted By: ultrarunner
Date Posted: June-09-2020 at 9:20pm
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Overpriced? All depends. If the seller gets 7k, then no. But anytime a 30+ year old boat is considered, a super careful look is in order. Old ski boats have been wet A LOT over the decades. Rotted strings can manifest in a number of ways, that folks on here are way more qualified to comment on than I. You'll get some good feedback. Faded gelcoat is a weekend with a buffer, a bunch of sandpaper, waxes, polishes, oils, lotions, incense, and some excellent directions that are on this site. Folks have brought back their finishes to better than factory, if that is even possible. ;-) Which motor? Hours? Used regularly? Orig. eng an trans? Transmission work, like a 're-seal' or OH? Engine updates, boat updates, like PP and such? Link to the ad if you have it, as we're all super curious and nosy around here. Ice should be gone up your way soon, so you're on the right track. Welcome to the group. Mark |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-09-2020 at 10:43pm
| Thanks, it has pcm 351, 608 hours, original motor. I’ll try and upload the picks. Stored on a lift and serviced annually by the dealer that’s selling it. |
Posted By: Fabcon
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 5:34pm
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who has it. ------------- 1976 Ski Nautique 351 Escort 1984 Barefoot Nautique (Parting Out) |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 5:48pm
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Ben, For a price reference, http://www.correctcraftfan.com/forsale/details.asp?ID=9884&sort=&pagenum=1" rel="nofollow - you can take a look in the for sale section like this 88 ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: 63 Skier
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 5:55pm
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It sounds like you very much like that era and hull and sound. 7K for an '88 2001 Ski Nautique is the top of the market. You say upholstery is good, was it re-upholstered with original pattern skins? If what you want is a 2001, and this one after closer inspection is "the one", meaning great mechanically and sound stringers and original pattern interior, then offer the dealer $5,600 and I bet you'll own it for $6,000. Most dealers don't want boats this old in their used inventory. ------------- '63 American Skier - '98 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 7:11pm
| Watercraft sales in Three lakes, wi |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 7:13pm
| That’s what I’m after, I’m assuming this ones gone as it was posted2 years ago? |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 7:17pm
| Thanks, I’m going to go look on Friday. He said everything is in mint condition except for the exterior. I wish it wasn’t a 4 hour drive but hopefully it’s worth it, gonna be tough to walk away after making that drive. He was asking 9500 originally, not sure I’ll get him much lower than 7k but it’s worth a try. |
Posted By: ultrarunner
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 7:39pm
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I took a look at the pics. Interior looks terrific, and with what appears to be all new, and correct skins. Same for carpet. If a new interior and good history and the floor and stringers check out, 7k isn’t too crazy a number with a trailer in good condition. 9500 is way too high. I’m just a touch over that on my 1996 SN, with good trailer and 460 hours, and like new on the inside, and some nice upgrades... |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 7:47pm
| Thanks, is there a certain area on the stringers that normally goes bad first or do I need to try and get access to all of them? |
Posted By: ultrarunner
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 8:05pm
Ya know Ben, stringer rot begins with floor rot, with the latter allowing water to begin to soak through and getting sucked up by the foam. Over time, the foam becomes waterlogged and the moisture starts breaking down the wood that surrounds it. Weak spots in the floor are the typical 'high traffic areas'. In front of rear bench, were you're getting in and out all the time, and the floor around the pylon and drivers seat. About the only access you have on these boats is the removable panel behind the engine cover, and the engine bay itself, that allows seeing the inboard side of the mains. Pulling the rear couch is also a good idea along with the gas tank panel, so you can see what might be going on back there, where a LOT of water can collect routinely. Folks also recommend the 'ole "engine mounting bolt test", to determine if they are tight. Of course that ONLY tests that specific area, but could be a good gauge if one or more bolts are loose and won't tighten into the mains. There more than a few members I suspect up your way that, like most of us right now, don't have much going on and might be up for a road trip to help you check it out... Keep us posted. Safe travels, Mark |
Bolin wrote:Posted By: burban65
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 8:19pm
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Ben, I took a look at the boat on their website. Although the pics don't tell the story of scratches, nicks etc... on the exterior I do think a good wet sand / buff could make the exterior shine up very well. Interior does look good in the pics. I can tell you I sold a 85 at the end of the season two years ago that had just a few less hours and was in truly excellent shape inside, outside,and trailer for a couple grand less than their asking price. As I always say..... if the buyer and seller are happy with the agreed upon price.........who cares what else anyone thinks. Good luck........and keep us posted. ------------- SRB |
Posted By: AAM196
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 9:26pm
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Yep, we are as we say in Pgh, a nebby group on this form! Always baffles me why people asking top dollar don’t at minimum spend a day or in this case have the shop kid compound, polish and wax boat before listing! Not saying this boat is worth the 7k or god forbid 9.5k but if you are going to try for that kinda money... make it look like it! Just bizarre! 609 is very low hours and if it was out of the water on covered lift or trailer that is good news for floor/stringers.. Just can’t imagine an owner keeping everything mint except the hull.. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 9:32pm
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Ben, Before you make the drive over, let me give Ryan over at Watercraft a call in the morning. I'll find out if it's in town at the rig shop or preferably at the main location on the water. I'll go take a look at it and report back. If it's the 2001 I'm thinking of, I think it's been for sale for some time. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 9:36pm
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https://www.watercraftsales.com/inv/1988-Nautique-Ski-THREE-LAKES-WI-U13828/#mainpic" rel="nofollow - Here's Watercraft's listing on the 2001 ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 9:42pm
| Thanks a lot, I’ve had a conversation with Ryan as well as some email exchanges, he sent me a purchase agreement today, but I really don’t want to sign until I see it. My plan is to be there Friday morning at 9, sounds like it’s at the location on the water so I can test drive it. I appreciate the help, no need to stir the pot though, unless you have some sort of relationship with him, I don’t want to piss him off. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 9:46pm
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Ben, The only "pot stirring" I plan on doing with Ryan is telling him ever boat he has isn't worth a million bucks!!  Seriously, I what to take a good look at the stringers. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 9:58pm
| That’s awesome, thanks a lot. I’m willing to make the drive and I will be there Friday morning if you think it checks out. Let me know how I can make it up to you! I just joined this site a few weeks ago and it’s made a world of difference in my search for a Correct Craft. |
Posted By: 63 Skier
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 10:10pm
I agree, don't get it. The pictures look like they are from one boat for interior and engine, another boat for hull. ------------- '63 American Skier - '98 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 10:38pm
Ben, There's no making up needed and nothing due. I think you'll find that things like this are common within the CCfan family. I haven't been over at Watercraft in a few and want to take a look at what's going on anyway. I know lots of "G"'s are going through there. FYI, I worked at Watercraft for Ryan's grandfather back in the late 60's and early 70's. Lots has changed since then. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: ultrarunner
Date Posted: June-10-2020 at 11:03pm
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Interestingly enough, the same dealer has a 91. Interior not as good, and same worn out gel. I’d definitely get the intel on the PO’s and ask some questions. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-11-2020 at 12:58pm
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Ben, I just got back from taking a look at the 88. Besides the gel needing a good wet sand an buff, I must say, it sure looks like it's in good shape. It was at one of Watercraft's off the water locations so I didn't get out on the water. Checked the stringers and floor and there's absolutely no indication of rot. The upholstery is in great shape and all that's needed is a in depth cleaning and conditioning. The down side of the hull wet sand/buff is the decals of the era are the checked clear/colored fade that I understand are very hard to come by as well as reproduce. Steering seams very smooth so I'd say it's years away from needing that special throw cable. Now, I left the price negotiating up to you. I did get a kick talking to Ryan when he said "I've got a couple people ready to jump on the boat" . That's the old used car salesman in him. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: footinforever11
Date Posted: June-11-2020 at 2:45pm
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Hi Guys, Looking forward to meeting Ben tomorrow. If you don't have thick skin the marine biz, then you are in the wrong line of work. We all know Pete is straight shooter that always tells it like it is. Some backstory for you though, since that is what a forum is all about. I can certainly discuss in further detail why we didn't attack the exterior. What it takes to purchase a trade in and get a deal done can affect what makes sense to stick into refab and each situation is different. That is the call I made on this boat. This boat is gas and go with a terrific interior that has been well cared lived on a lift it's entire life, and just happened to get prevailing sun on both sides for the past 30 years. It happens. There won't be any further negotiation as I do have the boat sold for more money, but committed to Ben and have been holding it, (against store policy without a deposit) because I thought Ben and I had a good rapport and it seemed like he would really enjoy it from our conversations. Not everything is about the almighty dollar, and as one of the few dealerships still selling traditional ski nautiques while still passing the handle as much as possible. we certainly try hard to keep people happy. You will be happy to note that the 91 is sold as well. That was a boat that my team wanted to part out, but I thought it ran too well to let it go to it's grave. So we resurrected it with a few different pieces of interior and a windshield from another boat to make sure we had another affordable ski boat to get a family into the sport and the Correct Craft / Nautique family. Getting new people into our sport It's easy to have an opinion, but we are grinding 65-70 weeks trying to keep people happy and boating when there isn't much else to do for fun. It is nice having Pete close by for the oddities. I will post a picture of the 77 ski nautique we have in for service with a cobbled together motor with a brand I have never heard of. We are one of the few dealerships that will even look at anything past 2000, trying to keep it real as best we can. On a bright note it looks like the weather will be a little nicer tomorrow. We are looking forward to getting Ben on the water getting him into an awesome new ride. Cheers- J. Ryan Lamon Vice President - Watercraft Sales. |
Posted By: footinforever11
Date Posted: June-11-2020 at 2:52pm
  I had just taken a quick peek earlier, but it appears this was a crusader engine that obviously became part of the pcm family later on. It definitely has a "special" water pump on it however. Ok- back to work! :) |
Posted By: Gary S
Date Posted: June-11-2020 at 4:16pm
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Tough life running an outdoor business depending on weather and things that are not necessary in life. I was 4 th generation in that and chose not to follow in their footsteps. Even tougher when you only have that one day in August- race to make everyone happy for that one day then start the process all over to put them away til the next August ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1711&sort=&pagenum=1&yrstart=1966&yrend=1970" rel="nofollow - 69 Mustang HM SS 95 Nautique Super Sport |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-11-2020 at 9:17pm
| Thanks for checking it out, going to pick it up tomorrow. I’m sure I’ll be in touch as I’m new to these and I’m sure I’ll have some questions along the way, should be on the lake Saturday and if I can figure out how to upload photos I’ll post a few! |
Posted By: AAM196
Date Posted: June-11-2020 at 11:45pm
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That sounds promising! And I never said don’t buy it... my thinking is normally a used car dealer buffs the car out and hides the real issues! If Pete is confident in the stringers and mechanics of the boat as best as he can without a water test...that would be good enough for me to take that drive! I can see demanding a bit more for a boat after storing for winter... we are now in their prime selling time frame. + the cost of a new inboard is thru the roof... Good luck to all parties on this transaction. If it makes its way home with you... before you commit to wet sanding... try rotary buffer with wool pad and 3m compound... you might get lucky... if so finesse it 2 then wax 😉 and hit us with the before and after. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 8:19am
Andrew, It's way beyond just a buff. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 9:27am
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Ben, Before you go after the hull sand/buff don't remove the decals until you trace them on some tracing paper. I don't know if there's a computer file on them but if there isn't one, the tracing can be used. A vinyl graphics shop will scan the full size trancing, clean up the rough edges on their computer and then use it to cut new vinyl, I do remember and did mention it that the clear/color fade on the decals is difficult but maybe there's a vinyl shop that can reproduce it. The problem as I understand it is the fade is actually produced by starting with clear vinyl and then the color is printed on the clear so it's a two step process. The clear areas allow the gel color of the hull to show and then the color area produce the fade. If the fade can't be reproduced, at least you can go with a solid color. Is Ryan going to get it in the water for you? Have a safe trip and keep us informed. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Alvin-Lightweight-White-Tracing-Paper-Roll-18-x-20yd/41228365?wmlspartner=wmtlabs&adid=22222222222028879473&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=e&wl1=o&wl2=c&wl3=10375944887&wl4=pla-4578778772112631&wl5=&wl6=&wl7=&%20wl10=Walmart&wl12=41228365_10000001199&wl14=roll%20tracing%20paper&veh=sem&msclkid=3e869cdb2eac1418932ac23846c1f985" rel="nofollow - Roll tracing paper ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: ultrarunner
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 11:10am
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I'm digging this thread!:-) With that said, you have some options on the decals. There are also some great examples on here of folks that have restored the gel and gone sans-graphics. It's a nice look. |
Posted By: TRBenj
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 1:45pm
| 88 graphics are available. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 2:11pm
Tim, Just the computer file or the decals themselves? If decals, where and with the shadow? I must have missed it. All I remember is someone trying to have them reproduced and the shadow was a problem. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: stepper459
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 2:39pm
| This is great. By the way it's marked SOLD already, so.... |
Posted By: JHadji
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 3:06pm
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I might be a little biased, but am rooting for you to find a sweet deal! ------------- 1988SkiNautique2001 |
Posted By: TRBenj
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 3:43pm
Full original decal sets, deck lightning bolts included. Have gotten 2 sets in the last few years. N3 should be able to get them, or put you in touch with the guy making them. |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 3:46pm
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Thanks Tim. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: KENO
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 5:08pm
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Or as another choice, Nautiqueparts says they have them too. Click on the link below https://www.nautiqueparts.com/product/decal-hull-1988-ski-nautique-2001-transom-sides-etc/" rel="nofollow - link |
Posted By: Bolin
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 7:48pm
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IMG_3409.JPG I’m trying to attach a photo via my phone not sure it’s working. Not sure if this means anything but it looks way better when it’s wet. Made the 6hr round trip, not sure the kids are gonna let me mess with anything until fall, it sat in the driveway for 5 minutes, they begged me to put it in the water, which was fine by me! It’s awesome, runs great, sounds amazing, we had a blast this afternoon. All the wood needs to be refinished and sealed, what’s the go to product for that. Thanks again for all the advice, it was very helpful Ben |
Posted By: 8122pbrainard
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 8:53pm
 Glad you got the 88 Ben. Regarding the teak, there's a link in the FAQ thread in the maintenance section on refinishing. Basically it's using a teak brightener, some sanding and then a teak oil. My go to is Watco teak oil. ------------- /diaries/details.asp?ID=1622" rel="nofollow - 54 Atom /diaries/details.asp?ID=2179" rel="nofollow - 77 Tique 64 X55 Dunphy Keep it original, Pete < |
Posted By: 63 Skier
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 9:28pm
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Congrats Ben! ------------- '63 American Skier - '98 Sport Nautique |
Posted By: 75 Tique
Date Posted: June-12-2020 at 10:47pm
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Nice. Glad you are a happy, satisfied customer and really enjoy the fact that the kids are so excited. That’s gotta make it worth while right there. ------------- _____________ “So, how was your weekend?” “Well, let me see…sun burn, stiff neck, screwed up back, assorted aches and pains….yup, my weekend was great, thanks for asking.” |