New Used Boat...Excited!!

[MrPunem]

Ok guys I am makeing the leap. I purchased this http://fayar.craigslist.org/boa/1367312108.html , now what should I do to make sure it is ready for the water? I'm new to this whole boating thing, have taken my safety course but they didnt teach what to do to prepare a boat you just bought. I'm super excited to get it on the water but I want to make sure everything is in good working condition before I put my family on it.

 

[WAVENBYE2]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

First thing you need to do is learn as much as you can about your boat, Manuals if you can find them and down load it to your computer so you always have it and know all your specifications< all the info you need for tune-up's, maintenance etc, a pair of muffs to hook up to your sterndrive so you can run her at home(Never run without an outside water source) Sterndrive manual for all your mainenance too, Grease fittings etc..

 

[windsors03cobra]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

There are so many things to do in order to do it right.
I would start by pulling the outdrive off and checking engine alignment, the water pump housing/impeller, gimbel bearing, u- joints, bellows, and fresh oil in the outdrive.

Engine maybe needs oil change ? Check spark plugs, cap, rotor, fuel filters and fuel delivery system along with the electrical system.

These engines are not overly complicated and do not need much to run but if you lose one of the critical components you will be stuck, and you don't just get out and walk.
I gave $500 for mine and went through the outdrive and engine due to having to replace a bad engine, I didn't spend a ton and am sadly still using the original 32 year old mechanical fuel pump. Thankfully I have not had a single problem and that's makes everyone happy.

 

[MrPunem]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

If I take it for a tune up they can check it and determine if anything is wrong or needs replaced right? What would you say average tune up may cost? I know its different for each boat an area just looking for an idea

 

[soaringhiggy]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

If you have a reputable marine mechanic yes they can tell you, the cost well could be 100 if a lot wrong more.

One of the things you want to inspect before you put the boat in the water is the bellows, they are the accordion looking rubber tubes that run between the boat and the "leg" of the out drive. They are easiest to see when the leg is in the up position. There are two larger ones and one smaller one in between the big ones. You want to make sure that these have no holes in them, they can let water, sometimes a lot of water into your boat if they are ripped. The water will also ruin other stuff in the outdrive.

If you have a marine store or boat seller take it there and ask them to show you how things work on your boat, most will have no problem showing you, don't be shy you will be better off and they may end up with a customer.

I understand that you are excited, and that is a very good thing and it will be a lot of fun, but take these steps first to ensure that you have a fun and safe first day.

Good luck, have fun, be safe

 

[WAVENBYE2]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

I'm super excited to get it on the water but I want to make sure everything is in good working condition before I put my family on it.

Quick question. I take it you didn't take her out for a run before you bought her?? Good luck, I hope when you take her in that you don't get bad news. Let us know. I hope you do get to take her out and be excited with the family. I hope everthing turns out good for you.

 

[MrPunem]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

i'm meeting the guy sunday to pick it up sunday and then will have to find a local person to look at it. Another question would it be better to go to a local marina or a boat dealer, just from your alls experience. Also going to have to practice backing dont want to be the moron on the slip.

 

[soaringhiggy]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

did you run the motor on muffs at all?

New boats are cool, just walk before you run etc

 

[RWilson2526]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

New gears in prop, new paint job, new seats, Runs great. Does need new Battary and intake boot. murcery mericrusier inboard/outboard.
what's the intake boot? does he mean one of the bellows.....many marina's have qualified mechanics so I wouldnt hesitate going to a marina... dont know which one would be cheaper compared to a dealer though.

If your bellows need replacing I am esimating a $500-700 repair as you should do all three bellows and impellar as long as the drive is off....just my guess...keep us informed!

 

[Steve Mahler]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

i hope you didnt already make a deposit, but from the pics, the outdrive needs some work. Whenever you see a rope holding it up, that means there is a problem with the hydraulic lift. Add to that the mention of the mysterious 'boot' and I assure you a mechanic will find you several hundreds of dollars of work to be done. Unless you have figured a substantial repair into the purchase, please walk away.

Old boats are not turn key unless they have been expensively restored.

 

[jkust]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

You are brave to buy a nearly 40 year old as your first without mechanical knowhow or deep pockets (which you very well may have). Seems like he did some cosmetic stuff but not mechanical repairs. In order to get ready, I would at least get it inspected and sea trialed plus the things mentioned above.

 

[Bronc Rider]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

New guy here.
I agree with the comments about the outdrive. It shouldn?t be held up with anything if it works properly. The bellows that have been mentioned are very critical to safety. The only one that can have a hole is the exhaust bellow, some come with holes so they can drain. The u-joint and shift bellow will sink the boat if they are torn. If you spot any caulking/sealer where the drive butts up to the boat (transom) it will be guaranteed to have rot.
For the money they are asking I would expect and be comfortable with some issues. If the issues are rot and outdrive problems I would keep looking. The money spent on restoring these items is better spent on a running boat you can learn on.

 

[WAVENBYE2]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

New guy here.
I agree with the comments about the outdrive. It shouldn?t be held up with anything if it works properly.

from the pics, the outdrive needs some work. Whenever you see a rope holding it up, that means there is a problem with the hydraulic lift.

I agree that when you go look at the boat to ask and actually see the stern raise up and down. Now I do use a strap on mine for a "transom saver" while on the road, I always use a strap to hold it in place. Pic is just an example.

 

[emilime75]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

Ok guys I am makeing the leap. I purchased this http://fayar.craigslist.org/boa/1367312108.html , now what should I do to make sure it is ready for the water?QUOTE]


That's pretty cheap for a running boat in what appears to be very good cosmetic condition. I would be wary of it's mechanical state, and I would really look into things like floor/stringers/transom. There's a reason why old boats sell for 500 bucks, especially running ones. Maybe you got lucky and found a great deal, but be sure to really check it out.

I assume there was no water test before purchase? I'm going to wager there's mechanical problems at a minimum, and I wouldn't be surprised if you find rot, and lots of it. Good luck.

 

[Aqualift]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

Looks like a V-164 Bayflite. Check out www.classicglastron.com. It's a great and helpful place to discuss things pertaining to these classic boats.

I picked up my 1970 Glastron back in May with a 1965 Merc 500 for $700. Although it's been a bit of a project, I have been able to do 99.9% of the work on it myself and it has cost me very little. I have had it out on the water almost 20 times since then. It has been a great learning experience. Be prepared to get your hands dirty, but I feel the rewards outweigh the problems I've had. I hope all goes well with your first boat.

 

[BugsBunnyBoater]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

I seems to me that if the boat is 500.00 yes there will be issures with it. But being so cheap if he can put 1,000 into it over the purchase price he might come out ok.
A 1,500 boat is still a good price.

 

[SeanT]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

Hey gratz on the new boat. You'll learn a lot and have some fun on the way.

 

[redone4x4]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

I agree that when you go look at the boat to ask and actually see the stern raise up and down. Now I do use a strap on mine for a "transom saver" while on the road, I always use a strap to hold it in place. Pic is just an example.

I agree, mine is always strapped up, but functions fine. I just dont want it hanging off, stressing my poor capri transom anymore than it already does lol.

 

[MrPunem]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

Thanks alot for the input!!! It helps me out a lot. Being new to the whoel scene you have given me things to look for before I hand the guy the cash. I didnt get a chance to ask him any of these questions because i was oblivious until i got on here tonight on what are good questions to ask. Like for buying a car I know the basic questions to ask....what about a boat? what questions should I pose to the the seller; also, what should I look for when it comes to floor/stringers/transom. And no I haven't seen/heard it run....didnt ask him if he lives on one of the many lake in the area, but once again adding it to the list....thanks again

 

[WAVENBYE2]

Re: New Used Boat...Excited!!

Yes it's a $500 boat, and could turn out to be a $2500 boat real quick. Besides looking at the transom, floors, stringers etc, definitly look the engine over. You can have the most beautiful boat in the world but if the engine is shot you just bought a $5oo lawn ornament. I would look the engine over anyway, pull the dipstick and see if you have chocolate milk, yes he could have changed the oil too, but wouln't hurt. Hear it run (w/muffs) at least. check the sterndrive (raise up/down) engage the throttle (fore/aft) the list goes on and on. I hope it does turn out to be a good boat, but remember, You get what you pay for. Ask yourself this one question, Are you willing to dump another $2000 in her if needed? For $2500 you could probably get a halfway decent boat too or even $1500. It could turn out to be a nice boat and I hope it is, I am just a little sceptical for $500, It's just the way I am. Good luck!! Check her out real good and then ask yourself if you want to dump a ton of money into her (restoring it)