What size boat
- Thread starter cspot
- Start date
I will admit that when it comes to boats, I really don't have much of a clue. Only boating I have ever really done is in a kayak or canoe and that has been on small streams or small lakes.
Ok. Getting more serious about this. The wife wants a pontoon though as she wants something comfortable. I am looking to buy used. Anything to be cautious of? What to look for? Brands?
Ps. As a side not I am not in a big hurry because this season is basically done so looking to get something for next year.
Ps. As a side not I am not in a big hurry because this season is basically done so looking to get something for next year.
Last edited:
Compression check the motor, you can google the motor too see what the pressure should be.
Make sure there’s no soft spots in the floor...
Check the pontoons for deep scratches or cracks....
Check all the accessories too make sure they work, including the running lights.... Steering for any excessive slack in movement....
If batteries are 3 years or older get some price reduction for their replacement....
Check trailer lights and wiring...
Running gear and brakes , if installed...
Winch and strap for winching on the trailer, look for fraying on the strap....
Check the frame of the trailer for cracks or serious rust....
When in doubt, have a dealer check it out, money well spent....
Make sure there’s no soft spots in the floor...
Check the pontoons for deep scratches or cracks....
Check all the accessories too make sure they work, including the running lights.... Steering for any excessive slack in movement....
If batteries are 3 years or older get some price reduction for their replacement....
Check trailer lights and wiring...
Running gear and brakes , if installed...
Winch and strap for winching on the trailer, look for fraying on the strap....
Check the frame of the trailer for cracks or serious rust....
When in doubt, have a dealer check it out, money well spent....
I wouldn’t be concerned buying from a private party, just do your homework..
Any questions feel free too ask... I’ll try too answer too the best of my ability.... I have a buddy who’s owned a few as well and I can pick his brain if I don’t have the answers...
I agree 110% on buying private but having a certified dealership check it out. Any seller not willing to let you get it inspected is hiding something anyways. Buying from a dealer doesn’t make it any better, and the warm fuzzy feeling is in the inspection anyways.
Find one you like and find someone to inspect it.
Find one you like and find someone to inspect it.
OK. If anyone see any boats for sale let me know. The Wife is wanting a full size boat to take on the river and big lakes as a family. I don't think we will go for a pontoon. Looking for something that can seat at least 6 people and would be good for fishing and for tubing. Don't need something to do 80MPH though.
If you are not in a hurry I would say you will have your pick of the litter here in a couple months. All these people that bought boats, campers, motorcycles, etc during Covid will start selling them off before winter.
I am not in a big hurry as I don’t want to buy something just to buy something. I told the wife we will get something for sure by next spring.
We went and looked at some new boats today. Got a feeling that this is going to get really expensive for me. The one we like the most was a Lund 1875 Crossover XS. Fortunately I fought the urge to buy. LOL.
Lund is a great all around boat.... Get a Yamaha motor on it and you’ll be set.....
Yes we liked it. Looked at a couple of other brands at other dealers like Alumacraft and Ranger and the quality wasn't as good. The Lund was really solid. I just keep choking on the price. LOL. Of course it really isn't all that much more than the cheaper boats. I would say you get what you pay for. The one we looked at had a 150 on it.
Look at the minnkota ultrex. Well worth the upgrade and price. Especially on an aluminum boat. That spot lock option is well worth the $$$$