Posts: 1663
Location: Kodiak, AK | Ask for compression numbers on the motor. There's an acceptable range, but more importantly, they should all be within 10% of each other. Then check the things mentioned- hull for dings and cracks, how it runs, etc. But also check the tell-tales. How does the trailer look? The trailer is the most often neglected part of the rig. If the trailer is well-kept and in shape, you can bet they took care of the boat. Check the boat wiring. If it's a tangled mess of twist-on connectors and grease, then someone has tried to fix or rewire something and didn't do a good job. If the running lights don't work (which are easy to fix) then what else doesn't work? And if it comes time to get serious, grab the lower unit and (gently and politely) try to lift the back of the boat. Of course you won't lift anything, but watch for transom flex as you do it. Also get in the boat and walk on the decks and make sure they feel solid...all decks, all lids. |
