Things to look for in used boat test ride

salmonee · #1 February 27th, 2009, 10:59 AM

I read a couple of thread on this subject using the search tool. Doesn't look like there's enough info. Can some of you lists items to look for during the test ride. I'm going to check and make sure all switches, hatches, etc. work as intended. Make sure boat starts/shut off. Have the boat run a WOT for atleast 2 minutes straight and see if anything comes up. Check the bilge area before and after test for water. Other than that I'm stumped. This is for a 2005 21' Larson 5.0GXI w/ 55hrs. I'm already planning to get a marine mechanic to inspect the motor/outdrive and do compression test. Any thing in particular I should ask the shop to look for or question that would assist in which is the better shop to take it to. This is out of my area so I will be cold calling the local marina/boat motor repair shop. I just don't want to say "check the engine/outdrive", don't know if that's too generalizing it?

tashasdaddy · #2 February 27th, 2009, 11:04 AM

don't cold call the dealer, do a search and set it up as an appointment. cold calling can leave you left out in the cold. they may be too busy to even look at your boat. this is the volvo drive system, try to find a volvo service shop. explain you want a pre-buy inspection. if they are worth their salt they know what to do.

salmonee · #3 February 27th, 2009, 11:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tashasdaddy

don't cold call the dealer, do a search and set it up as an appointment. cold calling can leave you left out in the cold. they may be too busy to even look at your boat. this is the volvo drive system, try to find a volvo service shop. explain you want a pre-buy inspection. if they are worth their salt they know what to do.

By cold calling, I meant randomly calling boat repair/maintenance shop w/out know the places. I'm calling today to schedule the appt so I wouldn't be left out in the cold.

tashasdaddy · #4 February 27th, 2009, 12:11 PM

you are on the right track.

RotaryRacer · #5 February 27th, 2009, 01:45 PM

I would make a few suggestions.

Let the current owner to all of the pre-launch prep and the actual launch, start and leaving the dock. Don't even take the wheel (even if they offer) until you are out and away from any obstacles. I hope you will be on a body of water that is familiar to the current owner. Listen to everything they say about where to and not to go while on the test drive. Essentially do everything you can to limit the potential that you damage the boat before it is yours.

Other than that you are looking for anything that seems strange while on the water. Does the boat plane out nicely? Does the boat travel through the water level side to side? Are there any odd noises or smells? Does the steering respond quickly and "easily"? Some squeaks and rattles will probably be audible. If there any that are very loud or obvious try to find the source. Don't be afraid to spend a lot of time on the water. Offer to pay for the gas that is used...especially if you don't end up buying the boat.