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I have bought a 1985 17' Guardian Montauk with a 2003 90 Etec and nice aluminum trailer. think I got a good deal because of repower and trailer Should the Guardian commercial model command a higher or lower price than a Montauk in similar condition?
Generally speaking, I think it would be very similar. My reason is this, in most cases (the vast majority of the time) a commercial hull has seen a lot more harsh use than a recreational hull. They are generally in worse condition, but they are desirable to many because of the heavy duty features. The commercial hull is certainly more expensive than a recreational boat if both are purchased new. If you can find a mint commercial hull, you will probably see a higher price than a recreational one in similar condition, but a mint commercial hull is an extremely rare find. Several members have or know people who have, or are related to people who have commercial hulls. Perhaps they can confirm or debunk my statement, as I have little experience with them other than what I have observed in the marketplace. Moral of the story is you will probably find that you will pay the same price for a commercial boat as any recreational hull in good condition, but the commercial hull will probably be in worse shape.
I would say the commercial hull would be worth a bit less. Just seems like everyone is looking for the wood. combined with the condition of commercial hulls when they get to the used boat market I think they bring a little less.
What did you pay? Most of the work boats that I've seen have been worked very hard and it shows. However, the hull has about 300lbs more fiberglass in it than a standard Montauk along with heavier grade hardware and lifting eyelets etc.
I too have guardian 17, but one that was privately owned since new so the overall condition is excellent. Do to the fact these boats are somewhat obscure when compares to a standard Montauk, the price can be all over the place.
Someone near me in NJ had a mid 80's Guardian 17 on ebay a few months back with a 20 yr old 70hp motor on the back and wanted somewhere in the 12-15k range for the boat. Who knows
There's no way to provide an intelligent answer to OP's question because there aren't any photos. I really wish people would provide detailed photos when they ask these kind of questions.
If two boats are in equal condition, the commercial model should command a bit higher price because they're rarer, and usually have heavy-duty features. On the flip side, the non-commercial models usually have a more fisherman or family friendly layout. Some people prefer the desert tan gelcoat to the haze gray.
I bought it for $4700.The owner originally told me trailer 2000 and motor 2002The trailer is really nice aluminum with swing tongue,radials and oil bath bearings 2004.The engine is clean and also a 2004 90 hp Etec with stainless prop and about 500 hours.Hour meter may be from 1987 or might have been replaced with engine. I will need to take it to an Evinrude dealer to download hours from the computer. to be sure. The hull is without visable damage or repairs but has been bottom painted and interior has been painted white with blue splatter effect.Poor paint job where they painted over the lifting eyes and locker hardware. Looks like they removed the railings when they did it ,probably during engine change.It,s a former Florida Dept of Fish and Wildlife boat so lots of sun and salt over the years. Foreward anchor hatch replaced with starboard.Side doors on console replaced with black lexan. old seat cushions and bimini.Worth it for the engine and trailer .I like the wood trim on the civilian boats also.My wife is NOT impressed.
