Re: First Time Boater
OK, you have some checking to do before you buy. The "engine guys" will help you through that part. I'll only say it seems like a pretty low-powered engine if the boat is a 22' cuddy. Anyone else on this?
Now, you said the hull looks in great shape...good. Now, what about the interior, floor, transom and stringers? Go over to the "Restoration" forum and look around for floor replacement threads and the like. IF a boat sitting out 13 yrs doesn't have a rotten floor (or many soft spots at least) it would be a big surprise. Most likely, rot in he floor, and worse yet stringers and maybe transom. BUT maybe you get lucky and it's OK. Doubt it, but who knows?
If it does have soft spots and rot, then expect a BIG job to get it fixed up. TONS of threads in the other forum on this. Tons. For $1,000 and if you feel like a big project, then it may be worth it. Expect to throw $2k into it at least - that's assuming the engine can be woken up for a reasonable cost as discussed above but the floor and some stringers are bad).
Many still take it on, but just know what you're getting into. I did it knowingly, and will likely never do it again. However, the pride you have in your boat after it's done is a great feeling (every time you get on the boat).
Let us know what else you find out.
