Another newbie questions

[MCFLYIN]

Hey guys....I registered here earlier looking for information on a Bayliner and you guys were great so I thought I'd go for round two.

I didnt pick up the Bayliner just because I figured it really wasnt for me. Have looked a few others locally and still am undecided. I recently came across a 1996 Baja Outlaw 20. I never thought I could afford it but this might be my chance. The guy that has it has had it out on the water this year already. Structurally and motor wise he says its in great condition. It does need some cosmetic repair thought. The seats and interior are all damaged and need replaced. It needs dock bumpers (as he referred to them) and probably needs gel coat (clear coat or whatever it is). I am pretty mechanically inclined and was wondering from you guys how difficult some of these repairs are. He said there are some chips and stress fractures in the fiberglass as well. I am going to look at it tomorrow to see if it looks like anything. The pictures look ok. I can get the boat and trailer for 4K. I figure even if I have to put another 4K into I still have an awesome boat. What are your opinions? I have alot of time available and love side porjects of my own.

brent

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Another newbie questions

I recently came across a 1996 Baja Outlaw 20. I never thought I could afford it but this might be my chance.

There's a reason why it's so cheap.

Structurally and motor wise he says its in great condition.

Of course he does. Why would he say any different? Use a surveyor.

The seats and interior are all damaged and need replaced.

I'm an upholsterer. That ain't cheap by any stretch.

It needs dock bumpers (as he referred to them)

Fenders

and probably needs gel coat (clear coat or whatever it is).

BIG difference between the two. Find out for sure.

I am pretty mechanically inclined and was wondering from you guys how difficult some of these repairs are. He said there are some chips and stress fractures in the fiberglass as well. I am going to look at it tomorrow to see if it looks like anything. The pictures look ok. I can get the boat and trailer for 4K. I figure even if I have to put another 4K into I still have an awesome boat. What are your opinions? I have alot of time available and love side porjects of my own.

You will have to be mechanically inclined because I'm willing to bet that if the clearcoar/gelcoat and seats are shot, it's because it was left outside uncovered and the weather beat the crap out of the interior. If the interior is weathered, you can bet the floor/stringers/transom are as well. Personally, I think if you consider putting an additional 4K into it, you better plan on dumping 3-4 more on top of that. IMHO, I would keep looking.

 

[dlngr]

Re: Another newbie questions

Just from your description,I'd expect a heck of a lot nicer boat for the money. And,I second what the fireman said!!

 

[Joshua Nichols]

Re: Another newbie questions

Go look at it anyway... The more you look at boat in the flesh the better you get at shopping the used ones..

BTW don't buy that one... Sounds like crap to me..

If you are going to give that kinda cash for a tub.. You should get something more sound.. 4k + 4k= 8k.. Man I can buy a slick boat for 8000 deer.. I get a dang good one for 4000.. You get good at looking at boats by going and looking at them, so get out there.. It's fun..

 

[LippCJ7]

Re: Another newbie questions

The other way to look at this is if your a first time boater, do not plan on putting more money into your first boat, your going to beat it up a bit so better to learn in a good first boat and then save your money for your next one. The problem is finding a first boat that will allow you to get the money out of it that you have into it, just something to keep in mind, my first boat was $6000, I got $5000 out of it, and it was well worth it I couldn't imagine doing some of the dumb things I did in the first boat to my pride and joy.

I agree with everyone here especially Joshua, get out there and learn what to look for it will pay dividends.

 

[MCFLYIN]

Re: Another newbie questions

I went and looked at it today. Everything looked good. No major damage to the hull or transom. Bellows were replaced last year. Seems like it just needs buffed and waxed to me. I took some cleaner and tested out a spot and it worked to bring a shine back to it. From what I could see (and by no means am I a boat expert) it needs new seats and cleaned. We are going for a water test tomorrow. I really like the looks of it and the style. Fits my personality. I guess we will see what the water has in store for it tomorrow.

 

[Joshua Nichols]

Re: Another newbie questions

Good luck buddy... BTW they all shine up for a minute when you spray cleaner on them..

Bellows would be the last thing I would be worried about.. Those can be changed in your sleep.. ROT.. Look for soft floor.. Everywhere.. Boats seem to go soft in the rear corners and at the ski locker...

You gotta be careful.. Boats are easy to fall in love with..

What engine set up does it have? Pictures would be awesome