4 years sitting, need help

[tedhrs]

I have a question for you.
I am looking at buying a boat that the motor was winterized back in 2005 and not run since. Do you think I?d run in to any issues by buying this. I know I would need to change the oil again, take the spark plugs out an lube up with some light weight oil, etc?. Is it an issue though? What would it take to get running? Would i be good to buy it and take it right to a boat shop for them to do it?
Specs:
1989 Four Winns Sundowner 21? with GM 4.3l and OMC outdrive. Boat is immaculate and so is the trailer. He?s only asking $2500.

 

[marinebucaro]

Re: 4 years sitting, need help

A 2500 dollar investment isn't that bad, But I think I would pay 100 to have a mechanic look it over and get a professional opinion. rather than take a 2500 gamble and hope that it doesn't need 3000 in repairs

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 4 years sitting, need help

100% agree^^^^^^

 

[tedhrs]

Re: 4 years sitting, need help

Do you guys think i'd run in to any issues with Seals/gaskets and such?

I am thinking if i got it, 100% fluids change, carb rebuild, new spark plugs and wires, new water pump impeller or new pump all together. Spray some light weight oil in the cylinders or fogging oil, crank by hand to see if she turns. Check the fuel in the tank and giver her a go.

 

[Susquehanna Squid]

Re: 4 years sitting, need help

Hey tedhrs, I bought my boat from a friends parents and they let it sit for almost 5 years in the elements (just a tattered tarp for cover). I had to replace half of the floor and the back seat etc.. As for the motor, I replaced the plugs, wires, cap, breaker points etc., belt, new oil, battery and bellows. I did not touch the carb and after taking it to my local marine dealer (for the bellows and a once over) it fired right up. My boat was neglected its whole life (until now) and it still runs great except for the crack in the block that spews water into my bilge (in the process of repairing). Oh yeah, I had to drain 8 gallons of old gas out too. My advice would be to do these things (minus the floor and seats of course and if the bellows is ok that too) and run some Seafoam through it. Just for reference, I have an 88 Fabuglas with a 3.0 liter OMC. Welcome to iboats by the way!

 

[PolishPrince]

Re: 4 years sitting, need help

When you check the tank, take off the cap and give it a good whiff !
If it smells like anything besides gasoline, the gas has probably turned into a "varnish." That means that all the fuel components are varnished and you'll need to clean the tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, R&R filters, etc. I would ask the owner if they used a fuel stabilizer, like Sta-Bil. If they did, you're probably okay.
And pray they used pure gasoline and not an ethanol gas, because in addition to the varnish, you may very likely have rust too.
The $100 for a marine tech to check it out would be well worth the investment. He probably knows the weak spots of your powerplant and be able to spot a problem ohers can't.
I'd love to hear how you make out.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 4 years sitting, need help

read this: http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=158086