Looking at used boat... What to look for??

[C. Harlan]

I am looking at a ski boat, a Malibu in Particular... What should I look for?? Owner has all the receipts, and records. . Help me out so I dont go the wrong way!



-Chris-

 

[Jumbo Jet]

Take it out for test ride. Long enough to warm the engine up real good.



Check the engine compartment for leaks.



Check the wood components underneath carpet and vinyl for soft spots. Check the floor all over for soft spots.



If it is an I/O, check the outside rubber bellows and hoses for leaks, tears, etc. Hydraulic cylinders for leaks.



Make sure the starter motor does not drag. That's an expensive item to replace.



Check steering for smooth operation. I replaced one steering cable assembly due to seizure.



I have a 1990 I/O that has been kept inside most of it's life and it needs several of what I have mentioned above repaired or replaced.

 

[bulabula]

Do a compression check while you're looking at the engine.



I think Malibu's are inboard tournament ski boats? Is the prop in good shape? You will be able to tell on a sea-trial if it isn't. Rudder and skeg solid?



Take a GPS with you on the run to check on its speed. Not sure how big the boat is nor what engine size it is, but it should run at least mid 40's ish if it isn't sick.



Does it come with all USCG equipment? Floatation vests, etc... . Any equipment expired?



Trailer check out ok? Brakes, lights, tires, etc...



Does the price include a beer cooler?

 

[C. Harlan]

Grrr. damn computer. . I was getting ready to make a post and it booted me off... the boat appears in very good condition. . I have pics, and the guy lives in the same neighborhood as I do, so if anything goes wrong, its not like he is a long drive away... I dont have a GPS or Compression tester, but he has all the vests to go with it, a Skylon ski pole, stereo system and all the goodies. . tags on boat and trlr are good through next year this time around, and hopefully all will check out to be well... After all, 98 is my lucky number, and I lucked out on the deal I got on Black Betty, she is a 98; so who knows where this will wind up... hopefully at the bank by the end of the week!!! I will keep y'all posted. . Thanks for the help!



-Chris-

 

[crabman]

BOAT=BRING OUT ANOTHER THOUSAND!!





crabman

 

[C. Harlan]

I will shell it out... I just paid off Black Betty, I am single(kind of) and see this as a chance to buy something nice for myself, and possibly load up some chicks! haha, anyways, I am looking the NADA price, and it is fairly priced with the book, actually a little less than what the book is asking for... I guess if the Texas Rally goes through at Lake Somerville, you know what toy I will be bringing along!!!!



-Chris-

 

[biggieou]

Personally, I would check for holes in it :-laf