2003 boat, worried?

[Mike Goodchild]

Hey there, seriously considering this 20 footer, made in BC, 1/4 inch hull, looks like in the one picture ( last one) on the left side some corrosion. What are your thoughts? Walk or buy? Motor is an optimax, good compression ( 120-126) self bailing deck, thanks for your thoughts. Mike

 

[Ray Clark]

Well, I'm not an experienced boat structure guy. However, I do know that I don't know enough for a vessel like that. If it was me, I'd get a professional boat guy to inspect that vessel before purchase.

Taking a risk on a small tinnie is one thing; if it's not going to work out, then it's easily removed from your life. The vessel you're looking at looks like a big deal to unload if problems run deeper than expected.

 

[flatheadsteve]

I don't see much corrosion in those pics just grime and filth that's built up In the underbelly over 20yrs. Looks like a heck of a boat.

 

[airshot]

Unless your gettin it cheap, I would have a professional marine survey. Looks like aluminum oxidation to me, but I am only looking at a picture !!

 

[Mike Goodchild]

Well, I'm not an experienced boat structure guy. However, I do know that I don't know enough for a vessel like that. If it was me, I'd get a professional boat guy to inspect that vessel before purchase.

Taking a risk on a small tinnie is one thing; if it's not going to work out, then it's easily removed from your life. The vessel you're looking at looks like a big deal to unload if problems run deeper than expected.

Thanks Ray. I might be able to get a survey done but it's next week and the ones I have seen on aluminum do not seem to explore the actual hull structure at all.

 

[LDUBS]

I can't help with your question but sure like the boat. Let us know how it goes, thanks!

 

[jethro]

Anything 20 years old- glass, wood or aluminum- is going to require some attention from time to time. If you expect a maintenance free boat you may want to reconsider but if the price is right and you don't mind the fact that it may need some work from time to time I'd say go for it. Do you plan on going offshore with it? Because a 20 year old, fuel injected 2 stroke that I didn't know the background of would give me some pause. Might be worth looking into a more modern, 4 stroke power swap if you will be offshore.

 

[Montana300]

Aluminum oxidation is white and powdery. I don't see much, if any, of that here. Looks more like dirt and grime combined with oily bilge water from that 2 stroke over the years. But, if you're talking serious (to you) dollars I'd have a pro look at it in person. Nice looking boat, though.

 

[Crazyboat]

Those boats typically aren't cheap, pay to have it looked at and gone though. Deduct it from your offering price.

 

[Al U Minium]

I like it, must be in cold cold part of the world with that huge enclosed cabin. Quality aluminum, make sure the bottom paint hasn't got copper in it that would pit the hull.

Ultrasonic testing is inexpensive test for checking parts of the hull, Be sure your inspector is going to use one.

I like the dory looking design of the hull

If you loose engine power the stern will come into the wind and that cabin will be the sail keeping it there. If the seas come over the stern and it can't keep up with the water volume, it will sink it fast. Same true if the engine propellor sucks up a rope attached to fishing gear. The drag will be like a sea anchor and water will boil over the stern.

The floatation is deep in the hull so if it fills with water it will likely roll upside down. You will need survival suits and location beacon.

If you are always going to be with a group of larger vessels in your travels and can rely on their assistance, this would be an awesome fun toy.

 

[thill]

How are you going to use the boat, just curious?