Buying a Used Mariah?
 

Mariahs are generally built very well but like any used vehicle or boat, maintenance is key and a poorly maintained boat can be a financial nightmare. Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking at buying a used Mariah:

Knowledge is the key to your happiness with your purchase ..... along with having the okay from your wife.

Get copies of (or at least look thru) the vendor's service records and ensure that it was properly winterized each fall. If you see a 'rebuilt block or 4.3 or whatever' invoice dated in the spring, then it likely wasn't done or wasn't done right. If you are going to buy the boat, get copies of their service records. Look for other significant items that were rebuilt or replaced and ask why?

Pull the oil dipstick and see if the oil looks fresh. Check the level of the out-drive oil in the reservoir. If you dont know where it is, ask the vendor to show you.

Have a look at the general cleanliness of the boat and the motor/bilge area. That will give you an idea if the owner had some 'pride of ownership' and kept her maintained.

Take someone who is knowledgeable (or at least pretends to be) with you to view the boat and get the boat on the water for a performance test. If your 'helpful' person is good, buy 'em lunch or at least a pint!

Make sure all of the electrics (switches/lights/power trim & tilt) work. With Mercruiser outdrives, replacing the trim/tilt sensors are a pita.

Make sure all of the interior trim pieces are present and/or in good condition. Sourcing original trim pieces and particularly glass can be difficult.

Make sure all of the canvas covers are included & in good condition. Replacing them can be pricey and most likely you will have to buy a custom fit as originals in excellent condition are very difficult to find.

Make sure the vendor can prove ownership of the boat. You dont wanna get stuck buying something that belongs to someone else....

Best of luck and keep us posted on how you make out!


ps... i'm sure i'm forgetting something. PM me if you can think of it.

Re: Buying a Used Mariah?
 

Thanks! Very informative I will use your tips!