Rebuild or Look For Newer?

[urbnsr]

OK - So we're still happy with our 1999 Bennington, but after a season of use, we better understand (slightly) what we like or don't like. Probably the main thing is the seating style. We have what I call is the bench type of seating and we believe we would like the lounger type ends on the bench.

If we're replacing the benches, well, we might as well change all the furniture to match. Since we're then pulling most of the furniture, we really like the vinyl flooring, so add new flooring. Since we're that far, we may as well replace the helm, too. I always wonder how long the 1999 Johnson motor will last even though it runs like a top, so I wonder about repowering someday (probably without a notice memo). Even though the deck feels solid and looks good on the under side, I don't know if we will find something when pulling the carpet.

Then I start adding up the cost and figure why not look at a newer pontoon with most (all?) on our wish list. At first, I told myself that if we rebuild, the costs could be over a period of time, but for better efficiency, we may as well replace furniture and flooring all at once. Even if we rebuild, we're still on a 1999 8' beam x 20' pontoon. Not sure it matters, but would another 6" of beam make a difference - I don't know. It's not all about amount spent, but wouldn't like rebuilding and then not happy with the results and buying newer anyway.

I am wondering if there is some piece of info that you know of that may help make the decision. We're on the water with minimal cost - so we're happy, but..............

Thanks - I would appreciate your input.

[ron nh]

New boat! Sell it.

[HandymanHerb]

Or just rebuild for less

[Bamaman]

It's like throwing good money after bad money.

I'd try to retail the 1999 Bennie and then purchase something newer that better suits your needs. If you can sell your boat for good money, so be it. If you cannot get good money for the boat, just keep it and use it.

Every asset has a projected lifespan, and you've probably got your money's worth out of your present boat. Sometimes it's time to step up and upgrade.

[urbnsr]

Thanks for the replies. We are now considering a newer pontoon, but, HandymanHerb, your rebuild does look very nice.