Broken Boat Question

[Ryanpm6774]

Good day to all.

I have a real dilemma on my hands... I bought a 1986 19' Bayliner Capri from a neighbor that was in total neglect. It was left outside for a year (winter) with no cover etc. I got it for $500 with the trailer. It has a 2.3L Volvo Penta 4cyl. engine. (AQ131a) I had a close friend install completely new interior. I also installed a new floor (marine grade plywood) that I coated with West 105 epoxy resin and microfibers. I installed LED brake lights, a new trailer jack, new marine grade carpet, chartplotter etc.

Although I performed all the routine mx, we struck an object in the water at a low speed and this caused major damage. According to the marine mechanics (and insurance adjusters) there was a grease fitting on the rear of the engine that never was greased. This caused the main bearings within to fail and ruined the bell housing, shafts, seals, and other things. I was told that it would cost $2500 in parts or $7000 total with labor to properly fix.

Here's the rub. If this were the only issue, would try to fix it myself. The issue is that they told me the transom was softening and would need to be fixed. Being that this is such an old boat, I don't want to put the labor into fixing both problems plus whatever other issues that may pop up. So I'm left with the question of how to sell and get the most for it so I can get what I really want. (Horizon H240)

So, All knowing community, do I sell a broken boat for whatever it's worth now (and what is that)? If so, what do you guys think it's worth I'll try to post some pictures of what it looks like now? Do I part it out since they are old and in demand? or being the end of the year, do I donate it and write it off. (how do I do that and is it worth it)

Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks,

 

[Scott Danforth]

I agree with your insurance adjusters. when you had the floor out, you should have replaced the stringers and transom. 995 times out of 1000 if the floor has rotted to the point of needing replacement, the stringers and transom are gone as well.

I recommend you start with listing the boat in your local paper, or on craigslist, indicate all the issues. if someone bites, put the money into your next boat fund. otherwise, start stripping the boat down for parts, sell the parts, then dispose of the hull.

 

[redneck joe]

agreed.

 

[jerryjerry05]

E-bay Craigslist.
The drive should sell and the motor too.

I had a 21 Center console with twin 85's
The tank started leaking and the transom went soft.

I pulled everything of value and with the help of my saws all it went to the dump in about 15 trips.
I managed to get about $2500 for the parts.
The parts usually sell better than the whole thing

 

[Ryanpm6774]

Thanks for the advice. Now to find someone with the same boat looking for parts...

Thamks

 

[thumpar]

I would part the main component. They are all used on many different boats and do as Jerry did. It is probably worth more that way.

 

[Weep'n Willy]

I would part it out and junk the hull. In my area Capris are a dime a dozen as the saying goes. You would get a lot more money just selling parts on CL.

 

[pckeen]

You don't need to find someone with the same boat. The mechanical parts are generic. For seating, your best bet is to remove it, if it is reasonable condition once clean, and sell that on ebay. Best of luck!