Advice: 1997 Sport Nautique wake

[Dantanna]

Hey all, first time posting here.

There is a 1997 Sport Nautique for sale local to me. No engine issues (850hrs) , good upholstery. $15900

But my real question to you experts, how is the sport in terms of slalom? We need the extra space of the bow, but my son is more of a skier, not a boarder. I like the idea of the flexibility as well as room for the family on board when not skiing.

He is by no means competitive skiing, but is used to skiing behind our neighbors Malibu Response and Mastercraft Sportstar.

Will a Sport be a let down wake wise?

Thanks all.

[FMSki 'n Surf]

I think that era of boats is pretty good for non-course skiing. Super clean flow coming off the hull. The hollow or divot the boat creates at shorter lines is more of a problem for advanced skiers. The later boats TSC2 or with hydro-gate TSC3 are better, but the roosters seem to be worse.

There are things you can do to optimize the slalom wake - Acme 422 prop, install an Antigravity Lithium battery, remove everything from the boat including front seat cushions and run low fuel. Ski at 28-32 off. Use the latest Perfect Pass GPS gives a great pull.

The GT40 motors can be a bit of a pain... make sure the fuel system has been serviced (drained seasonally, recent filter). Steering cable replaced or is good as well. No tranny leaks.

I would never own another tournament boat because they are too tight on space, too low - but I am not course skiing anymore.