Re: Looking at buying a boat needs some opinions
Sole, Stringers and Transom. They are the real problem with boats from this era. Check out the boat building section and see how many projects are out there!
Stringers: The long hull members that run the length of the boat under the sole (deck or "floor"). Usually wood covered in fiberglass, they are prone to rot (the wood in the glass). It is tough to check the condition of the stringers, but if you can gain access to one, knock on it and see if it sounds hollow. Take a socket set and try to turn a bolt that holds the front engine mount. It if turns freely and will not fully tighten, it is a good sign the wood core has rot. Big job to replace them.
Sole/Deck: check for any soft spots. The deck is normally plywood covered with glass. Like the stringers, it too is subject to rot. If ANY soft spots are noted, chances are more rot is under it. Look under the helm, the rear seats, any hidden spots where rot can be found.
Transom: The rear of the boat. It usually is plywood encased in glass. It too, like the sole and stringers is subject to rot. Tap it and listen for hollow sounds. The best way to check it is to drill a few holes in it (from the inside) and see if clean dry wood comes out. Most sellers will not allow this though.
Powertrain: Do a compression check, or see if the owner will let you take it to a mechanic. A good overall look at the engine will tell a lot. Check for leaking gaskets. When you take it out, see if it starts easy and runs good. Check the outdrive belows (the rubber tubes that run between the drive and transom mount). They should not have any tears in them. Torn or missing bellows will let water into the drive. This water will mix with the gear lube and ruin a drive. The broken foot you describe is a skeg, and they can be repaired. Check the prop for any dings or bends.
Misc: look at the condition of the hull, paint, etc. Poke your head under the helm and see if the wiring looks good or is just a rats nest.
Since this is the original owner, ask how he stored it. Was it inside? Outside? Does he have repair records?
NADA reports this boat's value around $3900 average retail. This is only a guide, and really does not reflect a trailer and other factors. Check boattrader and see what the average price is listed. I seen around $3500 to $3900. If this boat is indeed a nice one, then the price is not bad, but of course I would try to talk him down $500 to 900.
