Tips for Inspecting Used Boats for Sale in Arkansas: Possible Problems

One great way to enjoy the Natural State is to cruise or fish your way through places like Beaver Lake or Ouachita River, so if you still don’t own a boat, this might be an excellent excuse to buy one. When looking for boats for sale in Arkansas, though, never neglect the value of the inspection, whether it’s a used vessel or a brand new one. Here are some tips to keep in mind when walking through and inspecting a potential used boat purchase:

The Walk-Around

Visual inspection is the first thing you should do. Walk around the boat and take note of the things that seem off or amiss. Pay particular attention to the condition of the strakes, stem, and chines, since these components tend to show the most overt signs of a collision. Look for cracks on the surface that will need patching up before the boat can sail.

Mildew

Now look into the boat’s interior, especially around the upholstery and carpets, for signs of mildew damage. If there are any, take note of the extent of the infestation – do you think it can be fixed with some simple cleaning, or is there already an extensive mold presence? In the latter’s case, some of the boat’s wooden structures or components might already be infested.

Oil

In Cottage Life Magazine, Editor Matthew Pioro writes about the importance of checking the condition of your prospective vessel’s oil system:

“Does the engine oil feel gritty between your fingers? The grit is metal filings, which could indicate serious engine wear. If a mechanic confirms, abandon ship.

If there’s milky oil in the engine or lower unit, this means water is getting in. A bent prop shaft can be straightened and a blown or worn seal replaced. But an impact causing this kind of damage may have stressed the gears or, if water got inside, the gears may be corroded—bad news. If water is coming through a cracked engine block, steer clear.”

Wires

Check that your boat’s electronics system is functioning properly as well – while you can always replace some burned out bulbs, multiple devices going haywire might call for a major repair before the boat can even be used. Check for signs of peeled-up labels on the engine, melted wiring insulation or corrosion around the dash and motor.

To ensure that you won’t get ripped-off on your next boat purchase, choose only trusted boat dealers in Arkansas like White’s Marine Center. Take extra precaution when buying used boats, since one couldn’t always tell just how much or little their past owners might have used them; instead, check to see how they have maintained them.

(Source: How to Buy a Boat, NOLO)