What too look for in a used boat(engine)

[TwoWatt]

I am in the market for a new used boat <br />I might as well post a link to the boat in question. <br />(EDITED)<br />My question, is what can I check while I am at the dealer that will throw up red flags. My last boat purchase was not a pleasant one. I don't need anything fancy or fast. <br />You can see how much they want for the boat. (with trailer = $3395) Do you think I can get something better for that?? I want something that can be powered with a small outboard, but big enough for 2 & a dog.

 

[alcan]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

TwoWatt<br />If this is a reputble dealer (most are).<br />Take it for a spin (wet test drive).<br /> If you like it and it fits your needs, go for it. Dealer should have that thing all serviced and ready to go.

 

[Joe S.]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

Boston Whalers seem to be pretty good boats. Their biggest problem is rough water because of the flat bottom (very rough ride). Other than that, great fishing boat. The price seems to be about average, maybe a little high but I guess that depends on your area. Take it out, make sure its runs good all the way through the power band. May even want to have the engine checked out. Should be a good reliable fishing boat. Good luck!

 

[sho305]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

Just like any big investment, spend some time looking and dealing and you will be ahead. Make them a lower offer, its free to do that <br /><br />I am parting out a Bayliner, no transom left in there...I so hate adding to landfills. Would not recommend one of those. Try to keep in mind what you will use it for, IE: V-hull is better in rough water, flat or tri-hull is more stable at rest, person capacity, storage needed, livewell, etc.

 

[lonewolf5347]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

well this is what i would recommend on a used boat. check the compression on the engine ,check with a meter that it charges the battery, check the lower unit oil, take it out for a spin @ open it up.check gear's that they don't slip @ try reverse .shut it down on the water and try restarting it .goods luck with your boat.

 

[johnyi]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

Have the compression checked, look for excess corosion and general condition. This will give you an idea of how well the previous owner maintained the motor. When you take it out, make sure it gets up to the proper rpm range, has good water flow, and doesn't overheat. A poor running motor can have a problem as simple as dirty spark plugs or as serious as a lack of primary compression. A lack of primary compression would not be indicated by a compression test. Also check the lower unit oil for signs of water infiltration(milkiness), and the drain plug magnet for metal particals. These are just a few things I could think of, I'm sure a good mechanic could come up with more. Good Luck!

 

[TwoWatt]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

Thanks for all the advice. I went to see the boat. Its in great shape. The motor "looks" clean and the boat well taken care of. It is very plain-jane. No bells,no whistles. Which is something I like. <br />The dealer said this was the lowest price he would go. It would come with a new trailer. He also said I could take it out for a test drive (if I left a deposit). Would I be better off hooking up the thing & taking it too another local dealer in town & have him do a quick check on the engine. Thats my only fear is the engine. As long as it floats everything else should be ok with the boat. <br />Thanks for all your help.

 

[johnyi]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

I would have it checked by someone who didn't have a conflict of interest. Don't forget to take it for a ride and see if it gets up to the acceptable rpm range. It's hard to be objective when your excited about buying a new boat. Your emotions will cause you to ignore or overlook potential problems. Do yourself a favor and make a rational decision. Good Luck!<br />John

 

[TwoWatt]

Re: What too look for in a used boat(engine)

Once again, thanks for all the help. <br />I talked to the salesman today, and verified he would take 3100 for boat/trailer. He advised that I could test drive the boat, and have one of 'their' mechanics do the engine checks(compression, lower unit oil,etc) while I was there. He said he couldnt let me take the boat off property unless I paid for it. <br />So. I figure I show up early monday morning and tell them to put it in the water. I figure even though the boat isnt on the trailer & in their storage, it hasnt been started in a while. I figure its worth the extra wait while they lug it too the water to see how it reacts to a cold start. Then take it out, do like others have said, drive it let it warm up & shut it down & see how it restarts (a problem with my last boat)<br />I also checked http://www.bucvalu.com/ and verified that the book value is about right. Like I have said, its in great shape, new trailer,etc. The only issue right now is the motor.<br />Any tips/suggestions/comments appreciated.<br />Thanks again. <br />Brian