Re: First Boat Purchase Questions
Hi, Archer.<br /><br />A 9 year old engine could be in poor condition due to neglect or abuse, or it could be like new, just broken in and well cared for.<br /><br />The 1995 carbureted JohnnyRude 150 V6s were very good engines when new. With routine maintenance they were good for 1,500-2,000 hours of good service before needing any major repairs.<br /><br />What could go wrong? <br /><br />Failures that cause loss of compression can be detected by a compression test. All 6 cylinders over 90 psi and within 10% of each other. <br /><br />Failures of gearcase sealing can be detected by examination of the gearcase oil. No water, not milky.<br /><br />Other problems can be spotted in an on-the-water trial followed by visual inspection for leaks, etc.<br /><br />If the weather forbids a demo
under load , many dealers can run the engine on a dynamometer for a modest fee.<br /><br />An engine that has been tested this way is worth more than one that is only looked at or run without load simply because your risk is greatly reduced. Without the tests it is worth less.<br /><br />Inspect the boat for hull damage, soft spots in the floor or transom and evidence of neglect. Any evidence of need for repair greatly cheapens the boat and may indicate need to look elsewhere.<br /><br />Good luck.
