what should I check for buying an old mecruiser boat

[liusigou]

The owner told me following

18 foot 1989 Cadorette bowrider with 4.3 Mercruiser inboard/outboard and trailer. Cylinders compression about 120PSI.

I have some experience to install outdrive,oil change, below mount.
thank you

 

[Scott06]

The owner told me following

18 foot 1989 Cadorette bowrider with 4.3 Mercruiser inboard/outboard and trailer. Cylinders compression about 120PSI.

I have some experience to install outdrive,oil change, below mount.
thank you

condition of transom and stringers first, likely on a boat that old the wood structure is rotted. Compression should be 150 when new - this shows some wear on the engine. Watch what oil pressure is when engine is hot. You need 10psi per 1000 rpm of engine speed for it to be in good shape. Look at condition of gear oil in outdrive check for water and or metal

On a boat of this age would expect there are some issue that need repair

 

[tank1949]

The owner told me following

18 foot 1989 Cadorette bowrider with 4.3 Mercruiser inboard/outboard and trailer. Cylinders compression about 120PSI.

I have some experience to install outdrive,oil change, below mount.
thank you

transom or/and stringer rot!!!! Trust me!

 

[JonBoat55]

The owner told me following

18 foot 1989 Cadorette bowrider with 4.3 Mercruiser inboard/outboard and trailer. Cylinders compression about 120PSI.

I have some experience to install outdrive,oil change, below mount.
thank you

Boat that age, be very wary of ANY soft floor or flexing issues.