I am looking at buying a 1980 ranger bass boat and I was wondering what I should check to make sure I am getting a good buy.  This will be my first boat and I know absolutely nothing about boats.  Any info would be great.

Thanks,

Jeng

Here's a whole page of tips

http://bassresource.com/fishing/buying_first_boat.html

and this whole section is on just about every bass boat topic you can think of

http://bassresource.com/fishing/bass_boats.html

happy reading!

Make sure to ask for a compression test on the outboard.  Also, if possible try to see if you and the owner can go on a test ride.  I never buy a boat w/out taking a test ride especially if the boat is that old.  Make sure u look at the articals cart gave u.

What is a compression test.

Thanks,

Jenga

A compression test checks the condition of the cylinders in the motor. You better have one and have a shop check it out. there could be lots of problems(and there are going to be) on a boat this old. the carbs are probably going to need overhauled if the block is ok. That's about 500.00. The trailer will need work(lights, hubs, and tires). As far as the boat goes, this model had a lot of wood(runners, transom, flooring). I have seen them actually vaccum the runners out of the boat when the cap was removed. Price to fix will be as follows. Transom about 4,500.00, runners 2,500.00 floor just depends how much you want to replace when you pull the cap. If you decide to just replace the flooring make sure it is the same height in the boat or you will not be able to put the cap back on the boat.

Check all of the motor mounting bolts and any of the complete openings through the transom for dark or offcolored areas around them. this will usually be rot. Lift up on the foot of the motor to see if it gives. You should not be able to lift it up. Walk over the floor and feel for weak spots. They will usually be located around and back of the drains and under the console. What type of Ranger is it? Some of the early models did not have a rear deck. Water test the boat, but let it sit in the water off plane for at least an hour to let any leaks show. When you run the motor it should be quick to come up on plane and should not studder. check to see if the sterering is easy to turn. A steering cable will cost you about a 100.00. I replied to your PM also. Let me know what you find and I will try to help you. Jack Also some of these models had the hull as the bottom of the livewell. I have seen them crack in the bottom of the live well. Check all timers and switches. Your seller might work with you and reduce the price if you find a lot of small things that need to be fixed. I have already warned you about the trailer. Find out when the waterpump was last replaced. If the boat has been run alot it needs to be changed regulary. It will cost about 150.00 to put a waterpump impeler in the motor. While the motor is running make sure it squirts a good steady stream of water out the drivers side of the motor.  Look at all the welds  on the trailer and check the springs and hangers. I know this is a lot but it has to be done.  

Follow everone's advice! I took a crap shot and bouhgt an old school '84 Ranger 350-v , w/ a 150 merc maxx ,about 2 years ago w/ out taking in on the water. You might not get as lucky as  I did. Runs like a champ. Original owner that's somebody's grandpa had it stored in a heated garage for the winters. Updated the tm, gauges etc. If the boat checks out get it. Ranger's, were built to last 8 8-)

Look for an Old Salt to take with you when you take it for that test ride.

Take your time and look the boat over all the way around it.  Get down and look under it looking for missing chunks and cracks.  Look the trailer over from outside and from underneath.  Look at the tires for uneven wear which could be a bad axle.  Pull the cowling off and look at the motor.  Get in the boat and look in all of the boxes.  Turn on every switch in the boat and make sure that the accessories work.  Open the bottom screw of the lower unit and see what comes out (hopefully only lube).  Ask the owner for a maintainance record.  Like stated insist on a compression check and test drive.

If it measures up and is within reason, make an offer.

Good luck.