Fix-it-yourself Boats

Fix-it-yourself boats are boats that need a little to a lot of work to run. Most fix-it-yourself boats are older models, but what makes them so attractive is their price. Imagine buying a 1994 14' Bayliner Reflex with a trailer for only $600 dollars. It's practically a steal! All right, so maybe it doesn't have an engine anymore and the upholstery needs to be redone, but that is exactly what is meant by calling it a fix-it-yourself boat.

This is not a recommended venture for someone who is new to boats and who does not have much experience working on boats.

Fix-it-yourself boats are an option for those who enjoy repairing boats and making them look and work as good as new. For those without a lot of hands on experience looking to take a stab at fix-it-yourself boats, there are manuals available such as Clymer that specialize in repairs of just about everything.

Be wary of fix-it-yourself boats. The better the deal may seem, the more subtle a potential serious problem may be. Never buy a boat without fully inspecting it in person. You must know what you are getting into when buying a fix-it-yourself boat; no boat's problem will be solved by simply replacing an engine (though this is sometimes necessary). Inspect all of the electronics along with the gas lines and gas tank. Outboard engines will be easier to service than inboard engines simply because they will be more easily accessible. The boat's steering and transmission should be checked as well. Making sure the blower works is important for getting rid of deadly and explosive fumes from inboard engine compartments.

When looking to purchase a fix-it-yourself boat, ask whether or not it comes with its own trailer, as this will be an expense to add to the overall cost of the boat.

For help finding specific parts, go to a local marina or check the internet. The internet is full of useful websites like www.boatmotors.com/parts which will help if you are looking for a specific part of an engine or other engine-oriented wares (fuel meters, tachometers, outboard hoods, etc.).

There could never be too much emphasis placed on thoroughly inspecting a fix-it-yourself boat before buying it. Fixing some parts of a boat are more expensive and more difficult than others. As you become more experienced at fix-it-yourself boats, you will learn the ins and outs of the trade and be able to spot better bargains–or at least know what you are getting into.

Flipping boats can be fun and rewarding, sometimes even profitable. There are few feelings in the world akin to driving around a boat that before you bought and fixed could not run. So good luck, be patient, and remember never to buy a boat without looking at it in person!

 

Boaters Dream. 2001. Boaters Dream, Inc. 11 Sept. 2006 http://www.boatersdream.com.

Boatsville. 2002. Paradigm Development Groups, LLC. 11 Sept. 2006 http://www.boatsville.com.