---

Based on your description of the history of this boat, and the current owner's representations, I think you can reasonably assume it is a "red dot" commercia-grade hull. Several things come to mind:

1) A red-dot hull is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact some value it highly. The hull is built heavier/stronger which generally is good for longevity. But there are potential downsides. Many of these boats were purchased for commercial purposes initially, so often have lived a hard life.

2)Because they are over-built, they are heavier for towing/trailering purposes. Make sure your vehicle can handle the extra weight. And they also require max HP engines for good performance.

3) This boat has an older 90 HP 4-stroke engine. Max rating is 115. I suspect this boat will feel significantly underpowered. Budget for an engine upgrade down the road.

4) I do not suggest buying this boat if your long-termplan is to ignore the fuel/tank problem and just use an on-deck portable tank. That really negates many of the advantages of going with this model over say something like a Montauk 17. You lose deck space and storage, and yet you are still hauling around all the weight of the old tank and rigging.

Plan to get this tank issue fixed properly and budget for a tank replacement (if it turns out to be just hoses -- all the better.) In the opinion of many prospective purchasers, a boat with an internal tank that has not been kept up is a sign of a boat that has been neglected. That is what you will face if you ever try to sell this boat down the road with an on-deck portable tank. Use this as a negotiating point now and don't just let the current owner pass the buck to you.