Late 80's. early 90's shamrocks

[MC]

Trying to get some information on older Shamrocks, probably a 26 footer. My budget seems to point towards a late 80's/early to mid 90's Shamrock.

Engine issues aside, as part of my budget I will be considering a the probability of repowering in the not too distant future, are there any manufacture years to stay away from? Are there some better 26 hulls that outperform or are just made better than previous years. What about structural integrity on a 10-15 year hull, are there typical problems that I need to look out for?

It seems that Shamrocks tend to stick with a style year in, year out, which might indicate a quality product.

[Luckydog]

I've had mine for just shy of a year. Things I would be looking for/wary of:
1. previous owner modifications: carberutor, ignition system, other electronics changes
2. previous owner repairs/preventive maintenance: have fuel tanks been pulled for inspection/repair of corrosion? engine maintenance logs? when was shaft log last repacked? rudder? how has the boat been stored during the year when not in use? Look under gunnels at fuel tank fill/vent cover and see if there is evidence of repair or neglect.
3. fiberglass & gelcoat condition: has bottom been painted? IMHO if not kept in water for long periods, why paint the bottom? is there damage being covered up? are there numerous surface cracks in gelcoat? Inspect the transom and all of the various screws that permeate the transom..... are they all seated firmly? are they seated with 5200 or the like?

If buying with a trailer, what shape is the trailer in? springs rusted like a new found artifact? is there evidence of brake fluid or boiled hub grease streaking down the frame of the trailer? what shape are the tires? All things to consider..... and not to be overlooked. A trailer can be a costly oversight...... must be part of the negotiation if that is how you look to buy your boat!

I'm not expert but I've learned the hard way on a few of the things done by the PO that were not exactly the best way to do things so I must point to them as I review posts from yet to be owners......

My .02$!!!

LD

[Billt]

During this period of time the most popular installed engine went from a Ford 351 to a GM 350. The Ford is no longer made, but aftermarket parts are still available. The later engines have a little more HP but the overall performance has not changed much. The 22's and some of the other models went from 8' beam to 8.5' in 1991 but I think the 26 stayed the same at 8. Unless it has had work done recently count on Manifolds and Risers $550 in parts, water pump $160, and the new exhast project $200. You just need to know these parts are good. The engines in these boats get tired at 1500 - 2000 hours if cared for. Salt water cooled blocks last about 10 years if flushed. if you buy a project you can repower with a new engine for $5,000 - $8,000 GAS parts cost. Good luck.