Need boat advice

[chiefski]

A friend of my brothers is selling a boat.<br />its a:<br />1985<br />sunray Seville<br />18ft<br />w/ trailer, covers, fish finder and fishing gear.<br />he says the boat engine(140 mercury cruiser in board) was completely rebuilt 2 yrs ago, it runs great BUT sometimes it stalls in reverse.<br />the interior looks good to. also no cracks in the hull.<br />I don't know much about boats so could someone please tell me if $3000<br />is a good deal or not. should I look for anything in particular? what questions should I ask. thanks for any help.

 

[oldboat1]

Re: Need boat advice

It's best to check out the local papers and penney ads for something comparable, and that will give you a benchmark. $3,000 for a mid-80s 18' boat in good condition would probably be in the ballpark.

 

[blifsey]

Re: Need boat advice

Be sure to check all over the deck/floor for any soft spots that could indicate rot (potentially also in stringers). Also, should check transom real good. I'm not sure how to do that on I/O. With outboard, you put put pressure on motor and look for transom flexing. Could you could do same with the lower unit?<br /><br />BL...

 

[epresutti]

Re: Need boat advice

Chiefski,<br /><br />Take a good close look at the transom, check for soft spots, also inspect the deck (completely) looking for soft spots (put pressure on one foot, especially between supports). Look for "syrup", brown stuff comming out of mouting holes for the engine (this inicates the transom has water saturation). Also look under consoles, gunnels for dry rot or more "syrup".<br /><br />Open the inspection plates and poke at the stringers with a screw driver, they should not be soft.<br /><br />Hope this helps.<br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.

 

[epresutti]

Re: Need boat advice

BLLifsey,<br /><br />Looks like we were typing at the same time. Ditto what you said <br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: Need boat advice

Chiefski....same as what the others said, price compare, look for soft spots,etc. Plus see if you or your brother can find out why he's selling it, could be a legit good clean boat or ???? The stall in reverse might be something simple like the shift interrupter switch adjustment. I know some people tend to make a more decisive shift forward than they do in reverse....good luck!

 

[chiefski]

Re: Need boat advice

Thanks everyone for your quick responses.<br />I will definitely check everything you suggest.<br /><br />for anyone else feel free to continue your suggestions.