First Time Boat Owner........Help? (bass boat)

[Daddy Long Cast]

So I am picking up a 1986 370V Ranger with a 150hp motor and I was wondering what I should be looking for when picking up the boat? Anything specific that will normally go wrong faster than others? This is my first boat I am buying and I am buying it with a friend.

Overall the boat is in great shape the last two owners have been tournament fisherman and everything is in working order. The owner even wanted to go out a full day of fishing with us on it before relinquishing the ownership. I am just a little worried because neither me nor my friend know anything about boats.

The trailer is in great shape but the tires have a little dry rot starting so those will be replaced shortly. All in all if anyone has any ideas of problems what to look for or just words of wisdom to give then I am all ears. The owner has been extremely honest with the description and any possible issues it has and I have a good judge for character and he is an overall good person.

Thanks for any help given....I am so excited for this boat lol, im sure it will take our fishing to the next level instead of wading and now we can do tournaments.

 

[cpubud]

Re: First Time Boat Owner........Help? (bass boat)

take the owner up on his offer to take you out and pick his brain tell it bleeds. that would be your best bet to find out how everything works.

 

[asm_]

Re: First Time Boat Owner........Help? (bass boat)

I would agree. Definitely go spend a day fishing with the seller. There is nothing better then actually sea test a boat before you buy it.

 

[Daddy Long Cast]

Re: First Time Boat Owner........Help? (bass boat)

Yea we are going for a full test run and an early morning fishing extravaganza with the owner. I spoke to him today and he was taking his grand children out for their last trip on the boat.

 

[woosterken]

Re: First Time Boat Owner........Help? (bass boat)

wow, that would tell you alot about it right there!! if he trusts it enough to take the grand kids out on it.
i would not think you have any thing to worry about.

woosterken

 

[Daddy Long Cast]

Re: First Time Boat Owner........Help? (bass boat)

Yea, overall I have a good feeling on this one. ITs an older boat and needs little repairs here or there but all the major things are in good condition, knock on wood.