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Used Boat Purchasing Guidelines


In case you are considering purchasing a boat but don't have the money on hand to purchase a brand new one, there are lots of used ones around on the market that will do the job equally well. The National Marine Manufacturers Association states that 3 of five first time boat purchasers get a used one.


Just as with a used vehicle, naturally, there are risks when buying a used boat. Taking a boat on the water is a definite safety risk, in case anything goes wrong while you are out on the lake or the ocean, things could get more serious in a hurry. Making use of the suggestions on this page will help you evaluate if that boat you desire is a keeper -- or perhaps a lemon.


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Checking out the appearance

Pick up some unfastened objects and look beneath them, like coiled ropes, stuff lying around the deck or flooring components that aren't attached. Expect some discoloration, but any moss or greater discoloration means that the previous owner has neglected the vessel.


Look at metal or wood areas too. Aluminium will form pits in the corrosive, wet environment without having care, and teak (a typical wood utilized on boats) develops an unsightly appearance if the owner doesn't oil it on a regular basis, particularly if this boat heads out into saltwater destinations.


Take a peek at the riggings. If they are nylon, an indication of negligence is fraying or grime. If you're looking at a sailboat, riggings are particularly significant.


Make sure the bulk heads stay secure. Occasionally the laminate joining these to the hull comes apart, making them loose. If this has occurred, inform the seller you're not interested.


Finally, look at the Gel-Coat. Proper servicing process includes once-a-year waxing. When this doesn't happen, this creates a dull finish. If you notice dullness, stroke your finger over it. In case chalk comes away, your choice would be to paint the boat or just be content with a dull appearance.


Evaluate the mechanical workings


The engine must be cleaned after every single use, and some additional care is necessary after working with it in salt water. Boat engines tend to have an oily motion picture after use, and salt like to stick with oil. Over time, that salt will cause pits within the engine, ultimately causing corrosion of important parts. Around the seals and gaskets, you shouldn't see any grime remains. This could just mean negligence, but it can also mean you have a serious leak.

Rusty engines may leak somewhere within the cooling system, which can cause a major repair bill.


Test the bilge pump. This gets water out of the hull and is vital for boat safe practices. If there are steering cords, give them a tug. If they are not secure, they require immediate attention. Ultimately, if there is a dipstick, draw it out and check out the oil. Diesel engines ought to have black oil; if the film is foamy, there is probably a leak or even a neglected seal somewhere.

There are lots of second hand boats available that represent a great value, so do not let these tips discourage you. Put the advice in this post to work for you, so you get a watercraft at the right price -- and in the right condition.