I'm new to looking for a bass boat. I went to look at a used 2008 Triton 18 Explorer yesterday and found there was a lot of fiberglass scratches, chips and even chunks missing. None of this was in the photos online and surprisingly the dealer wouldn't negotiate on the boat which was marked at the high side of NADA. The boat had other signs of excessive wear and tear, but seemed to run OK. I walked away from the deal.

I guess the reason I'm posting is just wanted to see what your thoughts are in regards to fiberglass damage. Being new to shopping, I'm just not sure what types of issues are just cosmetic and what to avoid. Thanks

 

I would of walked away as well

Too many good used boats out there. No need to settle for a ragged out dog.

When they wouldn't negotiate on a used neglected boat it was past time to walk. Not to mention if they are squirly enough to no show the obvious damage in their ad pics to get you in there, that was a tale tale sign of what your dealing with. And it wasn't up front honesty. 

I would have walked away laughing from that train wreck. Whoever owned that thing before must run demo derby cars as well. 

A few scratches and nicks are normal. What you saw there is definitely excessive and you did the right thing by walking away. If the dealer wasn't willing to negotiate on something like that it's a sign to walk anyway.