Just Curious...Used Boat Shoppers

[BigNiner19]

I'm going to look at a 1982 Mako 171 Angler Edition, and the seller says all that really needs to be done is cosmetics. Says the hull is pretty strong. Also says it has a 115 83' Evinrude that runs good for its age and has good compression.

My question for those of you out there is...what would you say are the top priorities when looking at a used boat of this age. I just want to be prepared going in, as what to look for.

My list I guess would go like this...

1 - Walk around the floor and feel for any soft spots
2 - Inspect the transom and look for any cracks
3 - Look for any other miscellanous cracks or holes on the sides and gunnels
4 - See if the motor runs

What are the most important things to look for?

Cory

 

[sunaj]

Re: Just Curious...Used Boat Shoppers

I'm no expert but I've gained some experience with used boats in the last 10 years: Don't take anyones word about an older boat. A lot of people do not maintain their boats and a lot of the repairwork including electrical is sub-standard. You can find a pretty good boat/hull easy enough, but frequently they have engines in poor condition, the electrical system is often rigged up, and fuel lines/tanks may be in poor condition. If he says the boat is in good running condition he shouldn't object to getting it checked out by a pro, especially the engine, which if it is on it's last leg is really gonna run you some $$$.
Don't neglect the condition of the trailer, checking for rust, rot, all cables etc. are ok.
Make sure the owner has the appropriate titles for boat and trailer BEFORE you lay down the cash.
signed, school of hard knocks

 

[BigNiner19]

Re: Just Curious...Used Boat Shoppers

I'm no expert but I've gained some experience with used boats in the last 10 years: Don't take anyones word about an older boat. A lot of people do not maintain their boats and a lot of the repairwork including electrical is sub-standard. You can find a pretty good boat/hull easy enough, but frequently they have engines in poor condition, the electrical system is often rigged up, and fuel lines/tanks may be in poor condition. If he says the boat is in good running condition he shouldn't object to getting it checked out by a pro, especially the engine, which if it is on it's last leg is really gonna run you some $$$.
Don't neglect the condition of the trailer, checking for rust, rot, all cables etc. are ok.
Make sure the owner has the appropriate titles for boat and trailer BEFORE you lay down the cash.
signed, school of hard knocks

I believe in the state of florida, you do not need a title for a trailor anymore. I think its just solely for the vessle. I'm not certain though.

Good advice, thanks for your input.

Cory