I am new to the boards I have been lurking for a while just trying to learn what I can and have been looking for a longtail for a while. I have found a 2005 GDLT 20 hp Vanguard it does not have an hour meter on it so unsure of hours. The guy that has it says that he has owned for 3 years and has not put many hours on it. He only used it during duck season. He is selling because he bought a SD. I am not sure of what the value should be. Go devil does not currently offer a 20hp Vanguard any thoughts on that. What should I look for on the motor when I go to buy. I will be running on a 1442 boat so the weight also concerns me a little. The boat is full of foam but I am not sure if that helps or hurts because I assume it is waterlogged.

The guy sounds very honest so I am not questioning what he is telling me in the least I just want to know what to look for.
I
would appreciate any thoughts or tips for a newbie.

I would go with the 16hp vanguard go devil for that boat.

Use the search function, plenty of archive info. Excessive play in the shaft you are replacing bearings. Have the owner start it and check rpms. Replacing the shaft, bearings, etc. will not be too costly; carb may need rebuild. I'd make an offer, say 1K$, if it runs. That will push a 1442 fine.

Go with the 20hp, the 16hp and 23hp briggs are made from the same block so the weight difference is less than 10 pounds. The 20 will do fine on that boat.

Thanks for all of the help guys. I appreciate it.

Run it on a boat...need to be sure it runs good under load, not just in the air.
Good motor for that boat

Also, get the serial number and call GO Devil. Warren and the staff will tell you all about that motor.

^^^^Running it under load is a good idea

Well I did buy it and we ran it on my boat and it worked out well. I think I am going to be very happy with it. Thanks for all of the info. I feel pretty good about the motor just need to change a few things in the boat and I will be ready to go.