Re: 1972 sea ray
Pictures, but considering it is a mercury doubtful you will encounter much problems. Parts should be readily available! As for everything else check the boat for deck damage due to water secretly getting into hull and damaging the structural part of your floor. Also known as a deck, stringers, etc. Check your transom which is the area in the back of boat that your engine is mounted to. Ensure that is solid and not rot. I'm no professional here but I do know a great deal in finding a solid boat as for hull damage and structural damage is concerned. Thanks to eveyone on Iboats!!
For engine, ask to hear it run, check fluids, ask questions like what type of maint. has been performed and when. If you have tools available check compression. If not ask for a sea trial and even offer gas $ if your really interested. Always best to sea trial if you do that it will tell you a lot about the mechanical portion of the boat and hull rigidness as well as water damage.