Used Boat Buying Advice Please

doggreen13 · #1 June 16th, 2009, 07:32 AM

Hi guys
i am thinking of buying a used boat off cl,it seems like a good deal and just what i am looking for,the problem is it is way out in the boonies 120 miles from here and bringing a mechanic with me is not an option the boat is about an 88 with
a 140hp I/O Mercruiser any advice on what tools to bring with me and what to ask or what to look for,i dont want to get stuck with a lemon...

thanks

tashasdaddy · #2 June 16th, 2009, 08:22 AM

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.

doggreen13 · #3 June 16th, 2009, 07:25 PM

thanks here is a couple pics,its actually a 1978 see the spot in the bottom right in the motor pic.. what do you think ?

LarsonChef · #4 June 16th, 2009, 09:49 PM

Out of personal expierience buying a boat far from your home opens the door for many unexpected problems, especially w/ out a mechanic. I purchased a boat with what they called "cosmetic flaws" and ended up paying more on repairs than I did on the boat! Spend a little more time and try to find one near you, and get it in the water first!