Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

[jwharan]

I want to buy a Sea Ray 185. It is in excellent condition on the inside. The boat is several years old (more than 5, less than 10). the only downside to the boat is that it was used in saltwater, but not kept in the water, stored in dry storage. I have noticed that there is salt corrosion on the outdrive, which i guess is normal with Salt water. The engine has less than 80 hours on it. Is there any concern with buying this boat? Or should I be good to go? Are there any parts that I should inspect, or expect to have to replace? Any thoughts are greatly appreciated, thanks!

 

[searay3]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

This thread does not address your boat in particular, but does speak volumes about boats that have been sitting. Mine sat 8 years, motor is ok as I have not had any issues to speak of, however the water pumps (impellor and circulation) were rusted and busted as were bellows etc. Took about a thousand bones to get it seaworthy. Runs great now, was far cheaper than new. Keep in mind all work was DIY. Probably would not have been worth it if it was done by a shop.

 

[searay3]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

Sorry here's the thread...<br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=24;t=012468

 

[jwharan]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

This is what I am concerned about, what do you think?

 

[paboater]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

I bought a boat that was in saltwater for 10 years and looks far worse then that. It sat for 3 years before i bought it. Checked oil levels, took it out on the lake, fired right up and ran great. All depends on how it was treated, and maintained.

 

[searay3]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

If you are concerned about the appearance, the white crap on the paint, probably a non-issue. It's what we can't see in the picture thats a concern. Is it just the picture, or is the prop shaft bent and buggared?

 

[JRJ]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

Was any of this helpful jwharan?

 

[jwharan]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

I think so, i just wanna make sure that the wear in this picture is just cosmetic, and nothing more.

 

[JRJ]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

At about 5 years, the exhaust risers are due to be changed out. The problem here can be rusted bolts that break.

 

[AaronG]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

The stuff on the outdrive looks more like anti-fouling paint than corrosion. The anti-fouling paint for outdrives comes in a flat black that looks alot like primer. I bet thats what is on it.

 

[jwharan]

Re: Looking to buy 18' Merc 4.3L been in Salt Water

Good call, I will look at it and see. I hope you are right, anyone else have any thoughts?