When buying a boat check the engine first. The engine deserves particular attention. It may be an indication of an oil leak and warrants closer inspection. Are the pads, belts, and fittings cracked or brittle? Pull a spark plug and see whether it appears relatively fresh, or burnt and poorly gapped.
Is there a white chalky residue on the drive or engine? (This may imply that it has been running hot.) Examine the engine oil state and level. (If the oil appears milky, water might have entered, indicating the possibility of serious mechanical problems.) Assess the gear case oil.
Are the sacrificial anodes on the drive in good shape, or should they have been replaced long ago? Are there signs that the drive, rudder or propeller have hit submerged items?
Compression assesses the motor. If possible, have the motor started and assess how well it is running. Any irregularities in the noise? Blue smoke in the exhaust pipe (oil, may indicate that the motor is worn)? Excessive white smoke (may mean that coolant is leaking)? If you think you are not qualified to perform these tests, attempt to bring a technically savvy friend together.
Beware of any too-good-to-be-true claims. At an auction, chances are they are simply that – not correct. Liability for a seller at a public auction is relatively low, and two strong words -"AS IS" – basically free the vendor of any obligation. It is up to you to pinpoint them on crucial statements and be wary of any outrageous guarantees.
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Before even starting Bidding, make certain that you get a fantastic idea of the market value of the boat in question, and have set a firm limit for what you are all set to pay. If you are looking boats for sale in NY then you can simply visit greatpeconicbaymarina.com/boats-for-sale-long-island or other similar sources.
There are numerous marine cost guides which you could consult to find some idea of a boat's market value, but note that these are ballpark figures and much is based on the results of your survey and sea samples to determine the ultimate price.
The following pricing manuals or "blue books" are great sources: ABOS Marine Blue Book, -LRB-800-RRB- 262-1954; BUC Used Boat Price Guide, -LRB-800-RRB- 327-6929; NADA Marine Appraisal Guide.
In case you win the bid, insist on a written contract, and also ask that all important figures and claims have been cited (e.g. about previous repairs or owners, mileage, or the time span until you get the ship ). Don't forget that the price you will pay is usually higher than the winning bid.
Beware at police and salvage auctions. These are usually run by professionals, and especially at home auctions, it can be exceedingly difficult to estimate the damage and the true market value of the ship just.
Don't Be too hasty. Looking at some auctioned ships, You might find the feeling of a once-in-a-lifetime bargain, but in fact that the sector is really big and fantastic chances are around all the time. It is Ideal to observe a few auctions first to have a feel of this procedure, and only actively Start bidding once you've got a good idea of the market.