1997 pre2002 Question

[guitarist35jc]

I am considering purchasing a 1997 Pre2002 and have a couple of questions about the boat.

Did the 1997 year still have any wood in the construction?

What is the slalom performance like compared to other ski boats of that era?

Are there any known issues with that boat I should watch out for?

Any other opinions are appreciated!

[TeamAllen]

It most defiantly has a wood floor and stringers.
The wake for skiing should be great.
Some of the original VDO gauges in that year started splitting. Not a big deal and easily replaceable.
Post up some pictures when you get a chance. What engine does it have? s it fuel injected?

[NICKYPOO]

Welcome to the site.

Yes, lots of wood. Wood is good. Don't be scared. If it has been properly maintained it will last a lifetime and beyond. Wood also has superior vibration dampening properties you just can't get out of a composite material. Tige used wood floors, stringers and some interior panels up until 2001.

I've never skied behind one but, it is my understanding that they are outstanding slalom machines.

Tiges of that era are just as nice as anything else that was produced. Don't forget the founder of Tige left Mastercraft to build better boats. IMO, he did just that. The Tige hull lay up is stronger than any tow boat out there and, if you can find a clean one, its the way to go.

Be sure to drive all the boats you are looking at. Buy what you like regardless of what name is on the side of it. When you find the right boat for you, you'll know it.

Others will chime in on this boat. There are several members here with them.

Good luck and have fun.

[TeamAllen]

Not sure where you're located, but here is a fellow TO listing.
http://www.tigeowners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17741

[Ruger761]

Long as someone has taken care of it (course that goes for anything) buy it. I just bought a 97 pre2150 very nice boat and have rode behind a 01 21I which is very similar. Both are great for slalom or boarding in my opinion, especially with a few 200+lbs guys in the back for boarding. Mike is correct on the gauges, I had to replace all my 2" ones but the speedo, taps, and depth are ok. Pretty easy and roughly $30 per so not bad price either. So just comes down to how well it was treated. If it has the 350 gen + engine you will love the fuel injection but carb is ok too.

[Joeprunc]

I have the closed bow version of that boat. It puts out one of the better slalom wakes that I've skied behind.

[youatigenow]

I have a 1995 2002. It has been a great boat for me. I bought it with around 500 hours and I now have over 700. The only issue I have had was the steering cable finally got bad enough that it needed to be changed. Pretty good for a 17 year old boat I'd say. Mine has a carb but I have had no issues with starting, even after it sits for the winter. I have had mine now for three years and every summer it spends it's days floating on the dock. I have not had any problems with any of the wood getting soft and it stays wet for long periods of time. I personaly would not worry about the wood construction. I don't ski so I don't have much input on the slalom wake but I hear it's one of the best. I do wakeboard behind it and although it doesn't throw a big wake it is usable. With 800 lbs and people the wake gets pretty respectable. If the price is right it will be a good boat for ya! If you have any other questions feel free to contact me.