Need opinions on boat purchase!

[anthony7]

Hey Im new to boats so I'll be honest I have little clue what things are worth especially when it comes to older motors. Im considering purchasing a 1964 run about with a 1955 18hp evinrude fastwin. But although the motor fires up its got a rough idol, the owner claims it requires new points and a condenser. Now hes asking $350 but I think 300 cash would buy it. And I talked about buying it w.o. the motor he said hed consider it for around $150. The trailer is in good working shape with a light kit. I'll see if I can get some photos up here but what do you guys think its worth?

 

[PaulyV]

Re: Need opinions on boat purchase!

If that motor runs ok thats worth 150.00.$175. It'll cost ya $50-$60 for points /coils Impellar. Parts are still available for it. We need pictures of the boat and trailer to be sure the boats not all beat up.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Need opinions on boat purchase!

Aluminum or fiberglass?

 

[anthony7]

Re: Need opinions on boat purchase!

Fiberglass. 14ft. Hull in good shape. Doesnt seem to be cracks in the floor.

 

[anthony7]

Re: Need opinions on boat purchase!

Im a carpenter by trade so Im pretty certain I can diagnose the condition of the boat. Now I know some water may have logged the foam but how would I tell by looking at the floor??

 

[Robert4Winns]

Re: Need opinions on boat purchase!

The only way to tell if the foam is wet is to drill some holes in the floor. You can use a 2" hole saw and if it looks okay you can seal the plugs back in the holes. Of course you will have to buy the boat first.
You might be able to see signs of rot if there is any wood that is accessible, such as in the bilge. On my boat the stringers in the bilge area looked dark, as if they were stained with oil from the engine; but it turned out that it was rotten wood showing through the fiberglass.