Used Boat Inspection Guide
Inspecting a used boat before you purchase it is very important. Doing so can help you to catch potential maintenance or performance issues in the vehicle you are thinking about buying before you put any money down. However, not all used boat buyers know what to look for during an inspection. That is why Northwest Inboards has created this used boat inspection guide.
Examine the Used Boat's Exterior
Start by examining the boat’s exterior. Any cracks over two inches in length are cause for concern. You should also check any wood or metal surfaces for signs of corrosion. Even when exterior damage is limited to cosmetic, a lot of scratches and scrapes on a boat’s surface can sometimes mean that previous owners were not careful enough with the craft or did not keep up with maintenance. In these cases, more serious problems may be lurking under the surface.
Check the Oil and Fuel
Next, inspect the engine oil and fuel. If the oil appears milky, that is a sign that water got into the engine at some point. You should also touch the engine oil with your fingers. The oil that feels gritty to the touch is full of metal shavings, which means that the engine is in bad shape. As for the fuel, give it a smell. Fuel that smells rotten or otherwise off is a huge red flag.
Look for Mildew, Rot, and Rust
Internal rot, rust, and mildew are generally not serious, but as with exterior damage, it can indicate that the vehicle has not been properly maintained. Be sure to check in hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, as well as under the flooring. Some boat owners choose to only deal with visible maintenance issues while ignoring everything else, so look carefully for signs of poor maintenance.
Test the Electronic Equipment
It is very important that you test the used boat’s electronic equipment during your inspection. Not only is this equipment very important when it comes to operating the boat but replacing it tends to be very expensive.
If you are ready to shop used boats, visit Northwest Inboards at our dealership in Issaquah, Washington. We also offer parts, servicing, and financing, so visit us for all your boat-related needs. We are proud to serve the Washington state area, including nearby communities like Seattle, Washington. We hope to see you soon!