Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

[jmack325]

My friend's neighbor has a 16' Tri-Hull Renken that hasnt been used since 1988. It was used at most 10 times in 1988 and hasnt seen the water since. The price I can prob. get it for is $1500.00 w/ a 70HP Yamaha motor. Is this a good buy? should I persue this boat ? Is there going to be engine trouble since it hasnt been used 16yrs? Would should I be weary about? Let me know what you guys think. Thanks, John

 

[JasonB]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

How was it stored inside or out?

 

[Oldsaltydog]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

You can check the quality of the deck by tapping it with the blunt end of a screwdriver. Thudding sounds, as opposed to solid knocks, would indicate a rotting problem. The same is true for the hull. Thudding sounds would indicate weak fiberglass. Do a compression test on the motor. It should be 110 and over, with no more than 10-15 psi variation among cylinders. Would be a good idea to take it out for a test run. Just make sure to use new gas and oil. Also test the lower unit for water intrusion -- milky gear oil is the sign.

 

[Bobby Powell]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

I learned this the hard way...<br /><br />If your going to water test the boat, have the impeller replaced first.<br /><br />Bobby

 

[DJ]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

If the engine passes a compression test, it is worth saving.<br /><br />I agree, a water test with an engine that has sat for 16 years is NOT a good idea.<br /><br />I resurrected, in 2003, a 1983 Evinrude 90 that had sat since 1986. Here is what I did.<br /><br />1. Rebuilt the carburetors. (they would have been OK, yet I had piece of mind after the rebuild)<br /><br />2. Rebuilt the fuel pump.<br /><br />3. Replaced the water pump.<br /><br />4. Serviced the lower unit.<br /><br />I never even attempted to start it before doing those maintenace items. Once done, it started right up an never missed a beat.<br /><br />I think the price is VERY reasonable. Sounds like a great buy and fun little project.

 

[JasonJ]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

Sounds good to me. Do the already mentioned pre-op things, especially the water pump, drain any fuel out, etc. It'll run like a dream, but make sure no critters have taken up home in the exhaust ducting in the leg, carbs, intake, under the cowl. Probably need a new battery as well. You didn't say if it was stored outside uncovered, covered, or in a garage.

 

[Oldsaltydog]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

Yes, before a trial on water, replacing the impeller would be a good idea, and soaking the carburetors in a cleaning solution also, but the rest on DJ's list, unless already mentioned previously, could wait until later. True, looking around for critters, like carpenter ants or wasp nests is also a great idea -- based on personal experience. They are easier to battle at a standstill than while on the move.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

Agreed. Beside looking over the Yammie also check steering and remote control. No fun testing the boat if it cannot be controlled.<br /><br />The way of storage for this many years has a significant influence on the value and condition of the whole package.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

I agree with UU big time. I would have no qualms about going after a motor that was serviced at the end of the season and stored inside for 15 years. I would think quite differently about a rig that sat outside for 15. I'm thinking of all the machined surfaces and bearings inside that can rust.

 

[jmack325]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

It was stored in a garage.

 

[steam_mill]

Re: Should I buy a "brand new" 1988 Renken w/ 70HP Yamaha?

For $1500. Stored in a garage? Used 10 times. If the motor runs (once the carbs, LU is done etc.), that 70 hp will be worth that.<br /><br />Post pictures. Would luv to see you good fortune.....