Re: new boat
Everyone else will jump in here and giving you all the other advice about wood rot, and OMC Drives, and Cracked Blocks, Etc.
So here is my standard advice about Logistics.
If the boat does not come with all the
Required Equipment.
Allow another $500 to $800 for Life jackets, Flares, Fire extinguishers, Anchor, Anchor Line, Fenders, Dock lines, and then a few Water Toys just to get started.
That boat will be over 3000lbs on the trailer with Fuel and supplies.
Your average SUV is not rated to tow that much!
What will you be towing it with?
Where will you be storing it?
Many communities require that if it is stored in the yard, it must be out-of-sight from the road.
Will it fit in the garage?
Can you roll it into the backyard?
Is the driveway wide enough? (8.5ft?)
A 120 hp engine is going to burn at least 5 Gal per Hour at cruise, double that wide open.
A full day on the water, fuel, food, snacks will cost $100+. Is that in the budget?
I am not trying to throw water on your fire.
I just want to make sure you are going in with all the facts.
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Now, my very general advice on looking at used boats.
Condition is everything.
Every seller will tell you the boat is in Great condition.
Everyone’s idea of "Great" is different!
Put more value in the issues he points out as bad!
Look for signs that it has been taken care of.
When you go to look at it, If he pulls it out of the garage or takes the cover off .... GOOD!
If it is sitting in the driveway and has leaves, dirt, or water in it .... BAD!
If the reason for selling it is, he just doesn't use it any more.
It likely hasn't been used or maintained for years! .... BAD!
If he is selling it because the new boat is about to arrive ...
It is likely to be in good running condition, and he just has 2footitis.... GOOD!
Work out the price and insist on a sea trial.
No sea trial? ... Price the boat assuming it doesn't run!
Running on muffs in the driveway does not count!
... Unless you would buy a car that you could only idle in the driveway, but not actually drive.!
If he starts it without the drive in the water, even for 3 seconds! .... Run Away!
And #1 Take A
Boaters Education Course, It is likely required by law in your state if you are under 30.
Happy Hunting, Remember, Stalking works better than Rushing!