This article includes information on what to ask and what to look for when buying a used boat, along with advice on how AMSOIL’s 10W-30 Synthetic Marine Engine Oil can keep it running for longer. If you have ever tried to purchase a used car, then you know that the process can be confusing and often comes with a number of uncertainties. After all, unless you know what to look for or what to ask, you may not be buying the quality of vehicle you believe you are.

Buying a Used Boat

This process isn’t reserved for used cars, however. No, you can find this level of uncertainty when buying any used vehicle, such as a motorbike or even a boat. If you find yourself in the position of looking for a boat and are considering buying one used, USA Synthetics has a great article below with information that can help.

What’s Underneath?

If the current owner is still using the vessel, then there’s a chance that it will still be in the water at the dock or the marina. As troublesome as it may seem, you will need to ask to see the bottom of the boat. Once you have a clear view of the hull, you’re going to want to look for any signs of damage. And we mean any signs of damage. Be sure to closely inspect everything underneath the boat, in particular, look for instances which suggest the boat has been in a collision or has driven over some unfavorable debris, such as:

• Spiderweb fractures on the fiberglass.
• Any paint or coating which is peeling or scraping off.
• Cracked or even broken fixtures.
• Out of date or not working safety equipment and features.

You might be thinking that if the boat was already in the water when you arrived, surely it must be seaworthy. While it might be right now, small cracks or marks can quickly lead to big problems once you have signed the paperwork.

Time to Start It Up!

Once you’re confident with the condition of the hull, it’s time to check out the engine. The easiest way is to give it a start and watch out for any smoke or fumes which are emitted. While you can expect to see a small amount of smoke if the engine has been off for a while or it’s an older model, but the fumes should not continue after a few seconds. If the smoke continues, then you might be in for a problem, and this is something you will need to take into consideration when it comes time to talk through the transaction. When you are watching the engine start, look through the service book to see what products were used in the engine. If the fluids used are low quality or have become old, be sure to complete a full synthetic oil change on your new boat before taking it out. To buy the best products for your boat, click here to visit US Synthetics’ online store where you can browse a range of products like AMSOIL’s 10W-30 Synthetic Marine Engine Oil. Alternatively, don’t hesitate to call and speak with an expert at (405) 388-6170.

Electricals

If you are still interested in the vessel once you have inspected the hull and the engine, it’s time to move on to the electrics. It doesn’t matter if the boat has smart-phone controlled LED lighting and satellite wifi, or if just has a radio and a flashing light, it all relies on one thing:

Wires

Take some time to inspect the condition and the quality of the wiring throughout the boat. After all, a frayed wire could be the difference between you successfully calling for help and being stranded while you wait (hope) that somebody comes past to provide assistance. While you don’t need to get out electricians equipment to test the fuses or the wires, do look thoroughly throughout the boat, including any removable paneling, for any instances of wire damage or electrical concerns. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with giving the emergency radio a test to make sure it’s in full working order.

Upholstery

If the vessel comes with any sort of upholstery, be it seats, padding on the controls, or even comfort spaces around the vessel, it’s important that you check them for mold and mildew. The salt air and sea water can easily make its way into the creases of a boat’s upholstery. This can quickly lead to mold problems, resulting in heavy cleaning or even replacing the items affected. It doesn’t take a long time to inspect and can mean not having to replace any furniture in the short term.

Keep Your Boat Running at Its Best With a Synthetic Oil Change in Oklahoma City

Of course, once you have found your perfect vessel it’s important that you use only the best products in its engine to ensure it operates at peak performance. Click here to visit US Synthetics’ online store to buy AMSOIL’s 10W-30 Synthetic Marine Engine Oil which has been purpose designed to provide superior performance to water-based operations. If you would like to speak with an expert, don’t hesitate to call US Synthetics at (405) 388-6170 to learn more about which product is the best suited to your needs.