what are the right questions to be asking?

[skysurfer2010]

There really should be a sticky for most commonly asked questions by Newbs. I'm sure you guys are sick of them.... so I apologize in advance!

What are the right questions to be asking when looking at used boats?

A little background; I'm completely new to boat ownership. I have, however, owned about 10 pwc over the years (all 2 strokes) and have done just about all the maintenance, repairs, and modifications on them by myself and consider myself pretty knowledgeable with working on them. I have never worked on any other type of engines, but I'm not scared to learn, especially with a good Merc maintenance manual by my side! I also already have a NJ Boat License and a safety certificate.

I'm looking for an 18 to 21 foot bowrider preferably with a Merc I/O since there are two Merc dealerships very close by and it seems there are more Merc parts available on the web for purchase than Volvo. I'm also looking for something within the 1999 - 2002 age range due to price. I'll primarily use it on a river with occasional trips out to the bays around NJ. Most of the time I'll just be cruising around with 1 other person, but occasionally would like to take a few more friends out on it and the occasional wakeboarding or tubing.

I've looked at two boats so far, but find myself wondering what questions I should be asking. The most common things I ask are if the floor has wood stringers or if it's all fiberglass, when the oil was changed in the engine and the outdrive, about it's maintenance history, and then I usually have a dumb look on my face since I'm not sure what else I should be asking them. Can you guys give some tips?

I'm very interested in two boats. The first one I'm most interested in is a 1999 Crownline 202BR 20' bowrider with a 5.0 240hp Merc and Alpha 1 outdrive. It's been used exclusively in salt water, but according to the Marina that is brokering it, they have full maintenance records of the boat and the owner purchased a larger boat and needs to get rid of this one. There is no hours meter on it. I'm planning on going to look at it tomorrow, but it's a 2 hour drive. He's only asking $6500 without a trailer. I'm not sure if the price is firm.

The second boat I'm interested in is located 5 minutes away and is being brokered by a small boat dealer that I could possibly be bringing it to in the future for possible work. It's a 2000 Glastron 175SX 17.5' bowrider with a 3.0 135hp Merc I/O. This boat is mint and has only been used in fresh water and you can tell. The engine has around 200 hours on it and looks very clean. It's being sold for $6995 but I'm told the price is very negotiable if paid in cash since it's been up for sale for a while. If I don't decide to purchase the other one I'm interested in (99 Crownline), then I'm thinking about offering $5,000 for this Glastron and going from there.

What are your thoughts on those two boats? Of course I intend on having a mechanic look at either before I purchase a boat. Which brings up another question, do you just bring it to a competing dealer and ask to have a mechanic to look it over? How much would this typically cost?

Again, I'm sorry for all of the questions from yet another Newb. I guess we all have to start somewhere and I look forward to learning and hopefully being able to share info with future newbs in my boating future!

 

[gcboat]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

I think most of us here would rather tell you what to look for in a used space ship rather than a boat.
If you are truely commited to a vessel then your smartest recourse is to hire a certified marine surveyor. They have ( or shouldn't ) no affiliation with any marina's, mechanics or the like. Strictly a one man band with your piece of mind at stake.
Their services aren't free but very cost effective down the road. Look in your phone book or do a Google search for one in your area.
I could load you up with a million things to be aware of but in your case the surveyor would be the way to go.
My $.02

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

It's a big difference between a 20'ft, and a 17.5ft. Just make sure that you will be happy with the smaller boat...BEFORE you chunk the money down!

Like gcboat says...advice on what boat to buy, is like kissing your sister. I pass!

But there are two questions to ask yourself, when shopping for a boat:

1. Do I really need to own a boat?

2. How 'solid' is my marriage?

Good luck...and keep us up to date (this includes the divorce)!

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

Trust me..... people do not read FAQ and the topics on most sites.... very rarely. 99% of the time they are directed to a specific thread.... it's not you but people are lazy

Hire a person to survey a boat. Salt water is not too friendly on metal in marine applications..... hire a pro and save yourself the grief.

You can consult NADAguides.com for boat prices and they are fairly close since we are in the season.

That price on the glastron is kinda high. A brand new entry level boat can be had for 12K and one that is 9 years old can't be worth that much unless it was a boston whaler.

 

[skysurfer2010]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

I was told in an earlier thread to just get a mechanic to look over the engine and outdrive. I'm told a surveyor costs around $400?

I've always owned pwc for the past 12 years or so. I just sold my last one and have someone driving from MI right now to come and pick it up tonight (it's not stock, it's a highly custom stand up). I've always wanted a boat over a sit down jet ski since they can take more people out and be able to cruise at night. I definitely want a boat. The main factor that has me jumping on a boat this season is that I've found quite a few well under NADA value thanks to the economy. It's definitely a buyers market and you can get a steal right now. I figured I'd hop on the band wagon when the getting is hot!

More importantly, my dad is getting up in age and I don't get to spend that much quality time with him. He's always wanted to get a boat, but things never worked out for him. He liked going out on the jet skis, but due to his back he could only ride on them for a little while. He's pretty excited about the notion of me getting a boat.

And I'm 27, single, and plan on staying that way.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

And I'm 27, single, and plan on staying that way.

Well then I have to strongly recommend a cuddy cabin...

 

[skysurfer2010]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

Well then I have to strongly recommend a cuddy cabin...

LOL... ya know... I gotta admit... that is the one and only reason why I considered a cuddy! hahaha

Ultimately I'd rather have a bowrider to be able to take more people out. We'll see how that works out after this season!

 

[skargo]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

Well then I have to strongly recommend a cuddy cabin...

You sure about that? A cuddy could lead to a rushed wedding if not careful.

My wife and I actually bought a cuddy to be used as a stabbin' cabin.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

LOL... ya know... I gotta admit... that is the one and only reason why I considered a cuddy! hahaha

Ultimately I'd rather have a bowrider to be able to take more people out. We'll see how that works out after this season!

True..you can get more "friends" on an openbow...

I tell ya..I'm 44 yrs old now as of last week, and I wish I had a cuddy cabin..I need a place to go crash by MYSELF!!
What a difference 25 years will make..lol

 

[marine4003]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

Got any friends with a cuddy?, reason is,in the Carolina's most of the time its too hot below to use,even with the deck vent open.I have both a bowrider & the scarab is cuddy, its dam near 97-100 degrees during the day down there.
Not to mention that unless you have a windlass...its a pain to walk the deck to set anchor.

 

[JoLin]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

IMO, the price range you're shopping in warrants paying for a marine survey. Everyone here will attest to the fact that the purchase price is merely "the tip of the iceberg" where ownership is concerned. Do whatever you can to make sure you're off to a good start.

 

[jennis9]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

There really should be a sticky for most commonly asked questions by Newbs. I'm sure you guys are sick of them.... so I apologize in advance!

There IS a sticky from TD: http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=300510

My opinion: if you are going to sleep overnight or party at the dock on it -- then the space is warranted. If you like to fish and ski or tube, then an openbow is the way to go - but get a camper top. there's not much room at the stern for fishing on many average size cuddy's -- but I am serious about fishing and have downriggers, rodholders and my bimini on the gunnel. My only regret is not getting a boat that already had a camper top. I like ours because it's economical on gas and comfy to spend the day on -- but we have no head either.

Read TDs info - and good luck finding the boat!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

a little more from me

Buying a boat

1st you need to decide what you want to use it for, fishing, cruising, or water sports.

2nd how many people adults, children you want on board of the average outing.

3rd outboard, inboard-outboard, or inboard power plant.

4th Budget, what you want to pay, and what you are willing to pay, when you find
Exactly what you want.

You can hire a marine surveyor, to inspect the boat, or you can do it yourself.

You are mainly looking for soft spots in the deck, transom, cracks, all signs of a rotten, under frame. You walk all over the deck, that a mallot, or hammer with wooden handle, using handle, tap all over the transom, a shape rap is good solid base, a thud, is questionable base.

The motor should be clean, no spots where the paint is discolored, or pealing from heat, having run hot. (This part for outboard motors Compression should be atleast 100psi, and within 10% of each other,)
Spark on all cylinders, good pee stream, check lower unit for water in oil.

The overall condition of the boat will tell you a lot, as to how it has been maintained.
boat motor combo, A 30 year old may be in better condition, than a 3 year old.

 

[skysurfer2010]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

There IS a sticky from TD: http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=300510

My opinion: if you are going to sleep overnight or party at the dock on it -- then the space is warranted. If you like to fish and ski or tube, then an openbow is the way to go - but get a camper top. there's not much room at the stern for fishing on many average size cuddy's -- but I am serious about fishing and have downriggers, rodholders and my bimini on the gunnel. My only regret is not getting a boat that already had a camper top. I like ours because it's economical on gas and comfy to spend the day on -- but we have no head either.

Read TDs info - and good luck finding the boat!

I did check out that link and with all due respect, it didn't answer any of my questions. It's well written, but I don't really see why it's a sticky. It doesn't help out a newb much. Seems like common sense info on how to pick out what kind of boat you want. I already know what I want and how I intend on using it.

Right now I don't see myself planning to sleep out on the boat.

a little more from me

Buying a boat

1st you need to decide what you want to use it for, fishing, cruising, or water sports.

2nd how many people adults, children you want on board of the average outing.

3rd outboard, inboard-outboard, or inboard power plant.

4th Budget, what you want to pay, and what you are willing to pay, when you find
Exactly what you want.

You can hire a marine surveyor, to inspect the boat, or you can do it yourself.

You are mainly looking for soft spots in the deck, transom, cracks, all signs of a rotten, under frame. You walk all over the deck, that a mallot, or hammer with wooden handle, using handle, tap all over the transom, a shape rap is good solid base, a thud, is questionable base.

The motor should be clean, no spots where the paint is discolored, or pealing from heat, having run hot. (This part for outboard motors Compression should be atleast 100psi, and within 10% of each other,)
Spark on all cylinders, good pee stream, check lower unit for water in oil.

The overall condition of the boat will tell you a lot, as to how it has been maintained.
boat motor combo, A 30 year old may be in better condition, than a 3 year old.

Thanks for all of the info on what to look for!

 

[IVAZ]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

You sure about that? A cuddy could lead to a rushed wedding if not careful.

My wife and I actually bought a cuddy to be used as a stabbin' cabin.

Many of your post have made me smile. This one actually made me laugh.
I guess when the kids move out I will have to look into a cuddy for my next boat.

 

[skargo]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

Thanks IVAZ, my mouth does get me in trouble sometimes

 

[skysurfer2010]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

I went to look at the Crownline today and she was pristine!! Other than needing a good waxing, everything was in excellent shape including the upholstery. Even the engine had no signs of corrosion on it. Not bad for a 99 used exclusively in salt!

The owner kept it at this dealership/ marine since the first day it was purchased. They have the entire maintenance history from day one. The owner did a winterization every fall which included changing all of the oils, and it was summerized each spring including a bottom painting each year. It was just summerized by the dealership last week. It was only in for maintenance once in the past 10 years for something to do with the throttle cable and cost $100 to repair including labor. I'd think this is a pretty good sign that it has been well taken care of?

It started right up and idled smoothly. She also smoothly transitioned into gear. Although we didn't take it out on a water test, I saw no signs of any water intrusion or any signs of water leaking.

Since the boat is being brokered I made an offer and put a deposit down. It's in writing that my deposit is fully refundable if something comes up in the survey. If the owner accepts my offer we'll also take the boat out for a test ride.

Now I'm searching for a surveyor and hoping the owner accepts my offer!

 

[skysurfer2010]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

I just got off the phone with a guy I work with. He lives 5 minutes from the marina and has owned numerous boats over the years including his current 22' boston whaler. He said he highly recommended the dealership and that they have the best mechanics in the area working there.

Really good news to hear! Now I'm just crossing my fingers that it all works out!

 

[junior1113]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

It's a big difference between a 20'ft, and a 17.5ft. Just make sure that you will be happy with the smaller boat...BEFORE you chunk the money down!

Like gcboat says...advice on what boat to buy, is like kissing your sister. I pass!

But there are two questions to ask yourself, when shopping for a boat:

1. Do I really need to own a boat?

2. How 'solid' is my marriage?

Good luck...and keep us up to date (this includes the divorce)!

lol i'm gonna mis her when i get home but right now i got a bite

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: what are the right questions to be asking?

I went to look at the Crownline today and she was pristine!! Other than needing a good waxing, everything was in excellent shape including the upholstery. Even the engine had no signs of corrosion on it. Not bad for a 99 used exclusively in salt!

The owner kept it at this dealership/ marine since the first day it was purchased. They have the entire maintenance history from day one. The owner did a winterization every fall which included changing all of the oils, and it was summerized each spring including a bottom painting each year. It was just summerized by the dealership last week. It was only in for maintenance once in the past 10 years for something to do with the throttle cable and cost $100 to repair including labor. I'd think this is a pretty good sign that it has been well taken care of?

It started right up and idled smoothly. She also smoothly transitioned into gear. Although we didn't take it out on a water test, I saw no signs of any water intrusion or any signs of water leaking.

Since the boat is being brokered I made an offer and put a deposit down. It's in writing that my deposit is fully refundable if something comes up in the survey. If the owner accepts my offer we'll also take the boat out for a test ride.

Now I'm searching for a surveyor and hoping the owner accepts my offer!

Way to go...and 'welcome' to The Whacky World of Boating!

Glad to see that you got (almost got) the 20'.

Now go and have that family...and fill ur up!