Bass boat

[MikeSouza]

Alright I am finally buying my first bass boat and would like a little help. When it comes to the hull, steering, interior etc. I have all that covered. But the motor is where I need the help.

Knowing that if the motor breaks or doesn't run quite right, will be the outcome whether or not I am taking the boat out.
-What questions should I ask?
-What should the Compression be on a 150 Mariner and a 150 Mercury?
-Should I have a mechanic look over the motor before I purchase?


Whatever else you boat owners can help me with would surely be appreciated. Thanks

[NaCl]

http://www.californiabass.org/articles/ ... ssboat.htm

There are two checklists:

1. Boat Features List - helps you compare several boats. Make a copy of the features for each boat you look at. Write lots of notes on each list. Then, when you're at home in the evening trying to remember all the details on each boat, you have a very good summary sheet to consult.

2. Boat Inspection Checklist - helps you be thorough when you do your on-the-water test. Bring a copy of this list on a clipboard when you meet someone at the water. Check off EVERY item on the list. Start with the pre-launch inspection. Follow with the on-the-water inspection. Then, end with the final inspection when you're back on the ramp.

You have my phone number. Call me if you have any questions.

.....NaCl

[Ken C.]

Mike,
Remember that for the most part you are buying a motor. The boat itself is almost secondary. The motor is the most expensive part of the rig, the most likely to give you problems, and the most expensive part to repair!

That said, you should be asking for any maintenance records. If the owner has taken care of the motor he should have records. Is the current owner the original owner? Any hour meter on the motor? Unless you have personal "long term" knowledge of the boat and how it has been run and maintained you would be wise to have the motor checked by a good mechanic. The small investment you make in that could save you from buying a money pit. As for compression, you should probably expect somewhere between around 80 to 120 PSI, but more important than the actual number is the compression readings from cylinder-to-cylinder. I think you are looking for a maximum 10% difference. Also have a "leak-down" test performed on the cylinders as this may give you some insight into the condition of the piston rings and reed valves.

You might also want to scan the different motor forums on "iboats.com" and "bassboatcentral.com" and search on problems for the motors you are looking for. There are some knowledgable folks over there that can give you some heads up info.

Good luck, and just remember there are alot of boats available at any given time in many price ranges, so take your time to find one that you really feel comfortable with.

[Manuel]

Well Mike its like this. Everybody knows there is no Bass in Oaklahoma! Save your money for a trip back here to Cal. I'll take you out and let you put a whoopin on me like I did last time! Good luck with your hunt for a boat, give me a call if I can help. Say hi to the family.

[MikeSouza]

Manuel,
You see the pic of the ranger in the email?
Well the Ranger I wanted fell through. Looking at an 01' Cobra with a 150 Merc. White hull with red medal flake decal. You will have to make a trip to the okie state and do a little fishin.