Which boat - 2004 Sportster LE or 1998 Challenger to purchase

[rkkoeb]

So I am looking at two Seadoo boats that are just about the same price and looking for recommendation on what one to get

First one is the 2004 Sportster but has the 951 single Engine. I have not heard many good things about this engine so I am a little concern about reliability

The second one is 1998 challenger with the twin 787 engines

Both boats are in excellent condition.

Any pros/cons in regard to either boat that I should know about?

Rick

 

[snikwad003]

If it's the Challenger with twin 787s then it is the 18ft and it has quite a but more room than the sportster. The 951 is a good motor if you give it what it wants but it will show you who is boss if you neglect it's pickyness. I have the Challenger 1800 and I love it, big enough for a few friends and small enough for just me and the wife. rolls out at 49 mph, does spins etc. I went with the Challenger due to it's better seating layout and size over the smaller ones, but 787s we're a factor in the decision.

 

[mikidymac]

The 720 and 787's were the most reliable 2-strokes seadoo made. Make sure you service them correctly as soon as you buy it and make sure the injection oil in it isn't blue or green.

I would also check compression on anything I buy. On the seadoo 720-787 engines 150 psi is perfect and at 120 they need to be rebuilt.

 

[rkkoeb]

I am thinking of going with the challenger due to the extra seating and size. My family likes to go with so the room would be nice. Next question is what do you think is a fare price for this boat? The boat is extremely clean looking and this week I will do the compression test on the motors and see what they are at. He is asking $6K which I think is a little high in cost but it does come with extra items like knee boards, three person tube, etc.