Are you buying a used boat? You need to check signs of overall maintenance and other things such as lifejackets, lines, and fenders can be clues to how much love a boat has had.
In this article, we will discuss the things to watch out when buying a used boat. So let’s get started.
1. Look for cracks in the fibreglass above and below the waterline
Check out all the small details and parts of the boats. You may find small cracks in localized areas. These cracks tend to appear near screws that haven’t been countersunk properly around handles, gunwales, and wind-shields.
These are usually not a big issue but they can get worse if not fixed. When you find cracks greater than 2″ long, they suggest larger problems underneath. You need to ask the seller whether the boat’s been in a collision and look for signs, such as gelcoat patches, that indicate extensive repairs. Seek help from an expert to inspect.
2. Inspect for signs of damage
Inspect for the signs of damage such as flexing, cracking, mould, and moisture in fibreglass and wooden areas, such as the hull, transom, and floor. These can indicate rot, the break- down of fibreglass, delamination of plywood, or even rot in the stringers. You’ll likely want to walk.
3. Check for loose seats
If the floor is rotten then it is not a good sign, or it could simply be that the bolts are stripped. (Sitting on the seat back as you drive strains the bolts.) This can be fixed the latter by your marina.
4. Look for mildew
Inspect the seats, boat top, or carpet have mildew and other damage. Also check the storage lockers too. If there is an extensive mold inside the seats then it is a bad sign. You should know that a mouldy carpet or ski locker can mean prob lems underneath.
5. Make sure the electronics work
You need to make sure all the electronics work. Things like burned-out bulbs and seized bilge pumps have cheap solutions.
See if there are multiple devices on the fritz because this could mean faulty wiring or a faulty battery—again, not a big deal. You also need to see if labels on the engine have peeled up or if the insulation on the wires has melted, signs of engine overheating—and trouble.
6. Parts Availability
When buying a used boat keep in mind that it may not be 100%. Make sure the boat you are buying has the parts available in the aftermarket. Check GLM aftermarket Mercruiser parts for the availability of different parts.
7. Start the engine
Start the engine to see if it starts rough or slip, makes excessive noise, vibrates, or smokes? Issues like old gas or too much oil are easily fixed during your first tune-up. However, keep in mind these symptoms can indicate a bigger problem, such as low compression in the cylinders, requiring a costly engine overhaul.
If you think that we have missed any important point then do let us know in the comments section below.
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