How to check out a 91 bayliner

[scottryan5]

Lets be up front. Im not a boat owner but Im shopping. I have never owed a boat and dont know much about them. I am a turbine mechanic so I know a little something about engines. I have my eye on a 91 bayliner 2352 hardtop cuddy, merc I/O 350cid. I asked the man does it leak, he says he does get a little water in the bilge, but he doesnt know where its getting in and the bilge pump handles it easily. There are manufactured holes, Im guessing suction/discharge pump holes of some sort on the port and starboard side on the stern that have been epoxied over. Ok, lets start with the water. I tried to get down to the bottom of the boat to check for softness, this was not easy and I could not access everything. There is some pitting of the exterior coat along the line where the side breaks inward toward the keel at the rear, but the fiberglass looks good under. I imagine this could be patched? How do I check this thing out to make sure Im not being had? He wants 5800 trailer and all, and from what I can gather, looks like a decent price. Thanks

 

[This_lil_fishy]

Re: How to check out a 91 bayliner

I'd say run..run as fast as yer little feets will carry you...and try to find another deal..or hire a surveyor to confirm my thoughts.

There should be no water intrusion, and best case I'd say you're looking at an outdrive servicing (bellows and seals). If this is a long term problem then bigger things are afoot...bigger expensive things..like a rotted transom. There should be no pitting in the fibreglass.

Edit: Epoxying any outlet is not a repair..it's a quick fix and a sign of a poorly maintained boat.

Ian

 

[bear_69cuda]

Re: How to check out a 91 bayliner

I agree...

RUN!

I'm sure you can find a boat in the same style, for close to this price with no leaks, or major issues!

hire a surveyor

 

[scottryan5]

Re: How to check out a 91 bayliner

ok guys, thanks. Your right. Ive been web surfing and there are good cuddy boats all over the place. Im looking to spend 6500.00. Dosnt sound like a lot, but with the ecomomy the way it is... there out there.

SR

 

[JoLin]

Re: How to check out a 91 bayliner

ok guys, thanks. Your right. Ive been web surfing and there are good cuddy boats all over the place. Im looking to spend 6500.00. Dosnt sound like a lot, but with the ecomomy the way it is... there out there.

SR

Survey, survey, survey!

I would never again buy a used boat without a marine survey. There's simply too much going on inside them that you (and I) don't have the experience to spot. Never believe anything a seller tells you. The surveyor works for you and you alone.

Good luck!