Boat Buyer's Checklist?

[dalcini]

Hi guys, after a short (8 year!) pause I'm starting to look for a boat again. Right now, I'm looking at 242's around model year 2016 locally in MI. As always, a few seem below market - so going to check those first. Any advice for things to look out for regarding this model or even in general?

Short of a sea trial (and professional survey?), what are some things I should ask/look for at a first viewing (aside from what's typically in an ad)? Here's my list so far - I'll edit this to add as I go:
- Has it ever been in saltwater?
- Engine compartment clean? (This is very telling for me)
- Signs of hull damage/repair?

And many great suggestions courtesy of @Julian years ago (some of these might be specific to the SX 230 I was asking about at the time):
- Number of hours (and hours in the various RPM ranges--this comes from the engine SW-if they say they can't provide...walk away)
- Crawl in that engine compartment looking for signs of water damage
- Have them pull the plugs and show them to you-don't want to see crappy looking plugs...
- Get a compression check
- Check out the seats..in particular the seams, and the tops of seats for sun damage.
- Test the boat on the water - should accelerate with no cavitation
- Get under the boat an look for hull damage...specifically under the stern 6 feet.
- Check out the stereo....stock unit had face-plate issues that resulted in dead head units. See if remotes work.


Any additional suggestions welcome!

 

[Dave burke]

Hi guys, after a short (8 year!) pause I'm starting to look for a boat again. Right now, I'm looking at 242's around model year 2016 locally in MI. As always, a few seem below market - so going to check those first. Any advice for things to look out for regarding this model or even in general?

Short of a sea trial (and professional survey?), what are some things I should ask/look for at a first viewing (aside from what's typically in an ad)? Here's my list so far - I'll edit this to add as I go:
- Has it ever been in saltwater?
- Engine compartment clean? (This is very telling for me)
- Signs of hull damage/repair?

And many great suggestions courtesy of @Julian years ago (some of these might be specific to the SX 230 I was asking about at the time):
- Number of hours (and hours in the various RPM ranges--this comes from the engine SW-if they say they can't provide...walk away)
- Crawl in that engine compartment looking for signs of water damage
- Have them pull the plugs and show them to you-don't want to see crappy looking plugs...
- Get a compression check
- Check out the seats..in particular the seams, and the tops of seats for sun damage.
- Test the boat on the water - should accelerate with no cavitation
- Get under the boat an look for hull damage...specifically under the stern 6 feet.
- Check out the stereo....stock unit had face-plate issues that resulted in dead head units. See if remotes work.


Any additional suggestions welcome!

I think you've got a very complete list. The only thing I'd add is check the Connext screen and make sure it's working well. No error messages. A lot of info is displayed therein.

On my 2017, I had to replace both the port tach and the Connext screen, both under warranty thank goodness. They're both expensive to replace, particularly the screen.

 

[dalcini]

Excellent - thanks David.

 

[steelhorse454]

open ALL the bilge areas, all doors, underneath, etc. etc. Look under over sideways, etc. re: water intrusion and even factory finish or lack of in the hidden areas.

 

[Jim_in_Delaware]

open ALL the bilge areas, all doors, underneath, etc. etc. Look under over sideways, etc. re: water intrusion and even factory finish or lack of in the hidden areas.

If you can’t see into these areas, use your phone and take a picture or short video instead.

Jim

 

[FSH 210 Sport]

-While you are under the boat checking for hull damage…use a strong light and look up into each intake tunnel and inspect the impeller and wear ring for wear / damage.
-When was the last time the cones were pulled and greased on the end of the pump?
-Pull engine dipstick and check the oil for cleanliness and whether the oil smells burnt.
-Look for signs of wheel bearing grease leakage, when was the last time the bearings were serviced?
-Be sure and check the aft bilge area

 

[dalcini]

Thanks a bunch guys. Adding all of this to my checklist.