Old New 'streamer here

[divebugz]

Hi guys, 1st off thx for the add to the forum. Now, I had a Vector around 40 years ago (never should have let her go, but hey...) and now Im looking at a 1979 Viper with a 200hp Black Max. Im sure it will need the full redo, but how do I know if its safe to do a sea trail? Or do I just shift gears a few times, and throttle up easy to mid-throttle? I know that the 200 is over the HP rating for this hull. The pad seems solid, the floor is a bit spongy, the deck seems solid and I couldnt really get a good look at the transom but a knock test sounded ok (like thats a valid test LOL). Any and all infor/advice/warnings are greatly appreciated. TIA...

[Hippie459MN]

Welcome to the forum!

Spoongy floor = ROTTEN! If you havent read this yet, take a look, its a good read - https://www.hydrostreamforums.com/the-core-what-is-it-and-where-it-is

I would go into it just knowing it rotten. Not saying it would happen but I'd hate to see something happen during a test drive. Maybe just back it in, test run the motor, check the compression. If it all checks out, then you're good to go. But price it expecting to a full rebuild. I'd hat to see a guy spend $6k or something on a rotten boat. If the gel is super nice, it will fetch more money of course, and really, its all what your willing to pay.

Good luck and post pictures!!!!