new purchase old boat

[memag]

I am completely new to boating with a young family and am wanting to "test the water" if you will. I ran across an old Fiberform "v" hull boat with a 140HP Merc Cruiser inboard motor. I know very little about the boat except that the owner says it runs very good, (which I still need to confirm) and has only about 40 hrs. on it. She says it's a 1967 and is asking $1,000.00 with a trailer included. Is that about right? Any advice would be appreciated.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Boomyal]

Re: new purchase old boat

1967 unit with only 40 hours on it???? Very hard to believe but if true would probably be well worth the 1K. Be careful tho. How was it stored. Improperly prepared could be worse than a lot more hours on it. If story holds true, have a mechanic look at it then have everything serviced if you go thru with it. Also the boat should show the few hours in it's visual condition unless just left outside.

 

[JasonJ]

Re: new purchase old boat

The best thing you can do is to take someone with you that is knowledgeable about boats, or at least mechanical items such as the engine, outdrive, steering, etc. The other vital thing is the condition of the structure. 40 hours seems doubtful unless a new or rebuilt motor has been put in, which also is doubtful. $1000 can either get you a great deal, or start you out with the joyous pleasure of pouring money into a hole in the water. If you can't get someone to come with you, then you need to get it out on the water. You need to know that it starts, runs in the water, doesn't take on water, goes into reverse and forward, will run at a decent speed. You will want to check the engine while its running to make sure it isn't leaking or making any knocking or clacking sounds. <br /><br />As far as the structure goes, with a boat that old, you stand a high chance that there is some moisture damage present. If you feel soft spots on the floor, that indicates water damage. If the floor os soft, it is a fair assumption that the transom and stringers (underfloor supports) may also be rotting. If you notice that a layer of plywood has been layed down on the floor, there is rot present. Check the exterior of the hull for cracks, large obvious repairs (not a bad thing if done right). Look at how it sits on the trailer. If the hull looks warped, or that the bunks or rollers are pushing into the hull deforming it. You will just have to be meticulous, check everything. Post back with what you find. Others will add to this I am sure. Good luck...