Purchasing a boat for the first time?

Question

I'm buying a 2002 Sea Doo Sportster LE and I've never bought a boat before. It's only $3000, so when I go to look at it, what should I look for to avoid buying a lemon?

Answer 1

first and foremost test drive it her! you'll know right away if she's a lemon or not.

check her over top to bottom! look for spider cracks in the boat. if on the bottom check the inside for signs of water (easiest in the engine compartment).

check over her maintenance log if one is available. you want to make certain the oil was changed as outlined in the owner's manual. check the oil to see if water is in it (it'll appear "milky"). if so...you may want to walk away from it.

check the overall condition.

Answer 2

You should look to see if the bilge pump works. Also check to see how many engine hours it has if there is a guage. Make sure there isn't a crack in the engine block, if there is, it can be fixed with JB WELD though. Make sure it runs very well when you see it too. Good luck.

Answer 3

Don't buy a used boat without talking to the previous owner! Ask them:

* Who did you buy the boat from?

* Why are you selling the boat?

* Who was your boat mechanic and how do I call that person?

* Did you keep maintenance records, and may I see them?

* Did you ever have any insurance claims on this rig?

* How long has the boat been for sale? (Boat owners are much more likely to negotiate if their boat has been on the market for a long time. This also goes for boat dealers.)

* * * * Critical Tip! Don't buy any boat without taking it for an extensive "test drive."

Make sure it fits your needs and you are comfortable with it.