On 27 Jul 2005 13:35:44 -0700, "
wrote:

Should a used boat purchased from a new boat dealer be lake delivered
and tested? What is normal? Thanks.

Yes, yes a thousand times yes. :)

What kind of boat are we talking about?

Normally, you should get a chance to take it for a ride unless you are
very comfortable with the dealer, sales and/or service people. Under
normal circumstances, get a copy of the used evaluation form which
most dealers use - give you an idea of cylinder compression, any
issues identified by the mechanic, any repairs made before putting the
boat up for sale, etc.

The problem with taking the boat to another servicing dealer is that
you can't quite be sure if they are more interested in steering you
away from your intended purchase if something comes up negative.
However, an hour of shop time arranged and paid for in advance should
be sufficient for you to get a reasonable evaluation of the boat and
it's general condition. Some dealers will require a two hour minimum,
but then you can require a pretty complete evaluation including engine
runup. The best way is to find an independent dealer or a dealer who
does different engines than the one you are purchasing. Under normal
circumstances, you will get a fair evaluation.

The other option is to require the dealer to do those tests for you if
they haven't and you actually be present when the compression tests,
etc, are done.

Last, have somebody help you check the boat over. Doesn't necessarily
have to be extremely knowledgable, but some experience will help. Also
a second pair of eyes looking the boat over is very helpful.

At a minimum, offer to pay for the gas and take the sales person for a
ride - work the throttle a couple of times, do some hole shots, get
used to how the boat steers - just generally shake it out.

A caveat: Sometimes you will run into a dealer who will not cooperate
in such a fashion. If that is the case, then find another dealer and
another boat.

Good luck.

Later,

Tom