T&T: Buying our first trawler-Advice?

[Robin]

Don't fall in love with any boat before purchase: save that for after
purchase...excellent advice, but extremely difficult in practice! (at least
for me.)

You have four major cost centers associated with most boats:
hull,engine,electronics, genny...then everything else. Relative costs will
vary from boat to boat.

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In general, if a boat has been refurburshed, has some new equipment and has  a
new engine, you'll likely be just fine. One or two years is not much
time...but could be enough to cause dirty fuel problems in a hot climate. Any
engine warranty? On the other hand, everything depends on the workmanship
associated with any changes. A new engine, for example, on worn out engine
mounts is not a good way to start a relationship with your new boat. I'd sure
inquire WHY a new engine was installed, but first ask how many hours on the
old engine when removed...

Is the oil in the genny new and fresh? If not, after test running it, check it
visually (for milky color, indicating water in oil) get an oil sample
analysis. If fresh, ask when it was changed

BUT from your corrosion observations, I wonder if she partially sank and
THAT's the reason for the refit. I would NOT buy a boat with much internal
corrosion unless you know what caused it. For example, a leaky raw water hose
may have sprayed water....but if it got many electrical connectors you'll be
in for a very annoying hassle.

On that vintage far east built boat, I'd also check props, shafts,ruddders,
intakes and seacocks. Some alloys from the '70's and '80's were subject to
galvanic corrosion/crevice corrosion, due to impure alloy metals. Pink colors
and pinholes would be a bad sign. If she's been in fresh water all her life
any problem is unlikely.
What do the bottom zincs look like? If worn but still fastened, that's an ok
sign....if all missiing or all new ask about their prior condition...

Many far east built boats have STEEL fuel tanks...at over twenty years, they
may be shot...from either external water,dampness or water/condensation in
with the fuel. A tank is not all that expensive, but removal and installation
will be. If you can stick the tank(s), check with a water indicator...water
sinks to the bottom of the tank.

Sounds like a surveyor might be of assistance to you,
good luck, New shaft and rudder packing might be a good idea before launch.

And remember, this is supposed to be fun!!!
good luck,

Rob Brueckner