Opinion on 30 year old avon boat with 2.2 hp merc

[j_dent3]

Hi

I've been looking for an inflatable with a motor lately and came across a man selling a late seventies model Avon with a 2.2 hp mercury. I went to check the boat out and the motor works great. The Avon looks old, but holds air. The guy told me he kept it inflated year round so as to not wear out the seams. I would like to buy it but I am concerned because I would have to deflate it and fold it up to store it and I don't want something that's not going to last at least 3 years. He's asking $450 but I could probably get him down to $350. Is this a good deal? Thanks

 

[Guest]

Re: Opinion on 30 year old avon boat with 2.2 hp merc

I'm new at this but if u can get a boat and a merc for 350 it's worth it even if u get couple years out of it. When u go test it take a water bottle with a spray tip similar to what barbers use to wet your hair and spray the boat all over if you see bubbles somewhere u got air leaks

 

[Guest]

Re: Opinion on 30 year old avon boat with 2.2 hp merc

What year is the motor? Also did he put it in a garbage can so u can see the cooling system work? Did he show u the fwd and reverse gears in full throttle? I would also check eBay craigslist and amazon on that outboard see what the going rate is

 

[j_dent3]

Re: Opinion on 30 year old avon boat with 2.2 hp merc

The merc is a 1988. He put it in a big drum filled with water, and the cooling system worked fine. The motor doesn't have a reverse it is just meant to be turned around. The motor runs very nice. What I am concerned about is whether having to fold it up to store it will make the seams wear out quickly because I'd rather not have to go out and buy another inflatable.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: Opinion on 30 year old avon boat with 2.2 hp merc

You can't go full throttle while in gear on a barrel, will empty barrel in just few seconds, will need a test prop to do so properly. Seams will not wear out, probably glue will fail along all glued accesories. If fabric is still in good condition, that is not craked, dried out, excessive abraded go for it.

Take into consideration 30 years is at it's lifespan end. But eventually any part could be reglued again if knowing how to do so or counting with a boat shop to handle the work.

happy Boating