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Author:
Jeff
Date:
Mar 15, 2014
Subject:
First time boat buying
Message:
Alright guys and gals, I've been looking to purchase a boat for some time now. Looking for a 17-20ft center console that I can take out in the sound and in the rivers....budget is 10g's and under. Now I'm completely new to boating and don't know much so I am looking for some pointers. What are some key things I should be looking for? What is considered too many hours for a 2 stroke or 4 stroke? What can I realistically expect for my price range? All pointers are appreciated!
Author:
Redneckangler
Date:
Mar 15, 2014
Message:
If your going to spend 10K on a boat, spend a bit to have a mechanic check it out. An on the water test run is ideal. Last year on my 2-3 voyage out I ended up towing a group to shore who were dead and anchored in the middle of the CT. It was their first trip in their newly purchased used boat, and the wife was ready to sell. I was probably the last one on the water and they frantically waved me down as they also had no cell reception. Look at the small things that the owner does as far as maintaining the boat (no leaky, cracked hoses, filthy gunk build up or rust under the hood, etc.). Attention to detail can tell you a lot about how the previous owner maintained the boat. The wiring should be clean and free of corrosion on the boat and trailer. I had to rewire my last trailer, but that was OK as I considered this ahead of time (and one of my fishing partners is an electrician). Think about your budget for maintain and operating your boat. I run an 18ft. skiff with a 75 E-Tec, and a day on the water including towing and boat fuel (I may run from Stonington to Point Judith and burn 15 gallons) is going to be about $100. Sea Tow or BoatsUS is a must if you're in the Sound, especially with an older boat. You can expect various routine maintenance costs, just as you would a car, especially if you're running in salt. What I always get back to is the outboard. It's the most expensive part on the boat by far, and not being a mechanic myself, I would definitely rely on a mechanic I brought to go through everything. This being said, good luck in getting your boat!!!
Author:
Jeff
Date:
Mar 15, 2014
Message:
[quote:1481565765="Redneckangler"]If your going to spend 10K on a boat, spend a bit to have a mechanic check it out. An on the water test run is ideal. Last year on my 2-3 voyage out I ended up towing a group to shore who were dead and anchored in the middle of the CT. It was their first trip in their newly purchased used boat, and the wife was ready to sell. I was probably the last one on the water and they frantically waved me down as they also had no cell reception. Look at the small things that the owner does as far as maintaining the boat (no leaky, cracked hoses, filthy gunk build up or rust under the hood, etc.). Attention to detail can tell you a lot about how the previous owner maintained the boat. The wiring should be clean and free of corrosion on the boat and trailer. I had to rewire my last trailer, but that was OK as I considered this ahead of time (and one of my fishing partners is an electrician). Think about your budget for maintain and operating your boat. I run an 18ft. skiff with a 75 E-Tec, and a day on the water including towing and boat fuel (I may run from Stonington to Point Judith and burn 15 gallons) is going to be about $100. Sea Tow or BoatsUS is a must if you're in the Sound, especially with an older boat. You can expect various routine maintenance costs, just as you would a car, especially if you're running in salt. What I always get back to is the outboard. It's the most expensive part on the boat by far, and not being a mechanic myself, I would definitely rely on a mechanic I brought to go through everything. This being said, good luck in getting your boat!!![/quote:1481565765] Thanks for all the tips!! I will definitely bring someone with me that is seasoned with boats.
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