Re: First Boat
If you are new and uneducated on boats then yes I would have a survey done. There are many things that can be hidden or overlooked when buying a boat. The best time to buy a boat is when everyone is putting them away for the winter. Spring is when everyone wants a boat so the prices are usually higher. Things to check (not a complete list) Engine oil, check level and color before it is run and again after it has been run long enough to warm up and open the thermostat-10 to 20 minutes. Looking for any water in the oil, compare oil level and color (milky means water, run from boat). Listen for noises that seem loud or strange. Especially from the drive or transom area (gimbal bearing/u-joints). ALWAYS start and run with water, muffs or in the water. Anytime you run dry you damage the impeller and the inside of your exhaust connectors. Even 15 seconds can cause damage. Check all systems and operate all. Something as simple as the bilge blower can be a pain to replace or cost a bunch to have done if it's in some out of the way place. ANY thing found not up to par should be used as a bargaining point. Sea Trial, Sea Trial, Sea Trial. Can't stress this enough and not 15 minutes on the water, at least a half hour and an hour or longer is a much better. Some things don't show up right away. And retest everything after your sea trial.
