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Updated by Kyle Hunt on Mar 12, 2013
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Kyle Hunt Kyle Hunt
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10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Boat

For the safety of you, your passengers and your investment, make sure the boat is in good shape, and that the boat cover can handle Utah weather.

1

Never Rush to Buy a Boat

Never Rush to Buy a Boat

Never rush into buying a used boat. For the safety of you, your passengers and your investment, make sure the boat is in good shape, and that the boat cover can handle Utah weather. There are about a hundred questions you should ask when surveying a boat, but here are ten to think about.

2

Is the boat legally registered?

Is the boat legally registered?

Also, does it have all required equipment on board? If neither is true, don’t waste your time. Move on to a different seller.

3

How is the oil?

How is the oil?

Check the oil with your fingers, feeling for unwanted grit. Check the color and the smell, too. If the oil smells burnt, the boat could have engine troubles.

4

Does the transmission shift easily?

Does the transmission shift easily?

If you hear a clunk, that’s a bad sign.

5

Is there mismatched paint anywhere?

Is there mismatched paint anywhere?

If there is, this could indicate that the boat was in an accident. If you were not informed of this, be cautious; there could be other things you weren’t told.

6

Is the boat cover in good condition?

Is the boat cover in good condition?

Boat covers should protect the boat from Utah weather, especially in the winter. Don’t accept a boat cover with holes or tears. Ask if it was made by a reliable boat covers manufacturer in Utah.

7

Are there any soft spots on the decks, bow or floor?

If there are, this points to serious water damage that could affect the safety of the boat.

8

Do you see water stains around the hatches and windows?

Do you see water stains around the hatches and windows?

If so, they will have to be re-bedded to keep water from leaking in.

9

How’s the water flow?

How’s the water flow?

When you start the engine, make sure you see good, even water flow.

10

Are there rust and water lines on the engine?

Are there rust and water lines on the engine?

The boat might have a tendency to take on water if this is the case.

11

10. Is there a musty smell?

10. Is there a musty smell?

If the boat has been seriously neglected, mildew may have grown, damaging wood and upholstery.

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