Checking out a used boat? Look for signs of overall maintenance. Even lifejackets, lines, and fenders can be clues to how much love
a boat has had. Here’s a list of other things to watch for. When in doubt, call in a pro.
1. Look for cracks in the fibreglass above and below the waterline
Small cracks, such
as spiderwebs in localized areas, are mostly cosmetic. They tend to appear near screws that haven’t been countersunk properly around handles, gunwales, and wind-shields. No biggie
—but they may get worse if not fixed.
Cracks greater than 2″ long suggest larger problems underneath. Ask whether the boat’s been in a collision and look for signs, such as gelcoat patches, that indicate extensive repairs. Get an expert to inspect.
2. Inspect for signs of damage
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
The floor may be rotten (not good),
or it could simply
be that the bolts
are stripped. (Sitting on the seat
back as you drive strains the bolts.) Your marina can easily fix the latter.
4. Look for mildew
Do the seats, boat top, or carpet have mildew and other damage (check the storage
lockers too)? Upholstery and covers can be cleaned or replaced, but extensive mould inside the seats
is a bad sign. Also, mould spreads
easily, so spores
on these surfaces may be in the
wooden parts as well; a mouldy
carpet or ski locker can mean prob
lems underneath.
5. Make sure the electronics work
Burned-out bulbs and seized bilge pumps have
cheap solutions.
Multiple devices
on the fritz could
mean faulty wiring
or a faulty battery—again, not a big deal. But check to see if labels on the engine have peeled up or if insulation on the wires has melted, signs
of engine overheating—and trouble.
6. Check the belts
Are the alternator or power-steering belts are thin,
worn, or cracked?
Belts should be changed every 100 hours. Your first
service can cover it, but damaged belts hint at lax care.
7. Start the engine
Does the engine start
rough or slip, make excessive noise, vibrate,
or smoke? Old gas or too
much oil are easily fixed during your first tune-up.
However, these symptoms can
indicate a bigger problem, such as low compression
in the cylinders, requiring a costly engine overhaul.
8. Test the oil
Does the engine oil feel gritty between
your fingers
? The grit is metal
filings, which could indicate serious engine wear. If a mechanic confirms, abandon ship.
If there’s milky oil in the engine or lower unit, this means water is getting in. A bent prop shaft can be straightened and a blown or
worn seal replaced. But an impact
causing this kind
of damage may have stressed the gears or, if water
got inside, the gears may be corroded—bad news. If water is coming through
a cracked engine block, steer clear.
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