When making the decision to buy a boat, it can be extremely difficult to decide if you should buy new or used. With today’s economy, more and more people are looking to get more for their money and making the decision to buy used. By reviewing the following important things to look for when buying a used boat will help to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.

The first important question you may ask yourself is, where do I buy a used boat? There are many options out there, such as boat shows, dealerships, and online sites like OnlyInboards.com. With online specialty sites like ours, you can view boats from other areas, providing you with more options at potentially better prices than anywhere else.

After you decide where to look and you find a boat you are interested in, it is important to look into its service records. It is also a must to ask questions like, did the owner keep up with regular maintenance, how was the boat treated, and what accessories were added to the boat? By having more knowledge about the boat and the owner, you will be more aware of the care and attention they may have provided your potential purchase.
The next step would be ensuring you have given the boat a thorough inspection, even if you are not sure what to look for. It is imperative to check for signs of heavy wear and tear in items such as the upholstery and carpet. Typically it is safe to assume that if the upholstery is not in good shape, the rest of the boat probably isn’t either. Another place to look for damage is on the floor of the boat. If there are any soft spots found, it can mean there is rot or damage that has been done to the floor.

Another important factor to look at is the hour meter. The more hours on the boat could mean more wear and tear. There may also be the possibility that the hour meter may be incorrect. If this is the case, a dealership can hook up the meter and provide an exact reading.

When buying a boat, be sure to be as educated as possible and ask questions! Visit OnlyInboards to browse our incredible selection of used boats we have to offer. We not only strive to provide our customers with the largest selection of specialty boats, but on your budget as well.

With winter rapidly approaching, it’s sadly time to start winterizing your boat’s drive system. By following these few steps, you will be sure to have your boat running in no time…or as soon as spring arrives!

1. Drain the engine. Since there is no doubt that you spent all summer running your boat, it is essential that you rid the system of any water, acids, or any other byproducts. When water is left in the cooling chambers, the water may freeze causing possible cracks in the engine block and manifolds.
2. Change your oil. Just like with any vehicle, by not changing the oil and filter, you can cause damage to the engine, experience a loss of power, or even have poor fuel economy. It is important to eliminate any moisture in order to prevent corrosion. There are some mechanics who suggest doing this after the summer, however, instead of when you winterize. This reason is due to the idea that moisture that will build up during the winter months as well. Always remember to change the oil filter as well.
3. Add antifreeze. It is imperative that you add antifreeze to inboard cooling systems in order to prevent damage from freezing. It is best to use a marine grade engine antifreeze, either being rated -60 degrees or -100 degrees.
4. Treat your fuel with a stabilizer. By stabilizing your fuel, you are ensuring the carburetors and fuel systems won’t be clogged or varnished. According to Randy Vance of Boating Magazine, the ideal stabilizers to use are Pennzoil Fuel stabilizer. PRI-G, and Stabil.
5. Fog the cylinders. By fogging your engine, you are protecting the moving parts inside of the engine which can corrode during the harsh winter months.

 
Since not all boats and engines are the same, always be sure to consult with your engine’s manual, your mechanic, or the manufacturer to ensure you are using the preferred products and performing these important tasks in the most appropriate manner for your boat.

OnlyInBoards is the largest inboard specific resource website. Whether you are interested in buying, selling, or accessorizing your inboard boat, we are here to help with all of your needs. Visit our website for more great information on inboard specific boats of all types.