Help on inspecting a 22-2 before purchase

[sandgnat]

Hey gang, new to the forum and have a few questions. I'm in the market for a 22-2 and would like some help on how to inspect the hull of a potential boat.

1. Is it possible to tell if the stringers are bad without ripping into the floor? What signs should I be looking for?

2. Is there anything in particular to check on the transom or any other part of the boat that you feel is critical?

3. Any advice what to look for on a sea trial that should alert me about the boat?

I know an older boat like this may have some issues (soft spots in floor, bad hatches, etc.). I just don't want to regret a purchase because of something I didn't know to check. I'm not really worried about the engine because most of the boats I see have old ones or none at all, so it's almost a given to repower...unless I get lucky.  

I am a complete newbie at this but really love the classic design and potential of these boats. Any advice from your boat buying experiences is greatly appreciated!

[Marcq]

Hey sandgnat !! Welcome  
First thing I would do, is check it out not once but many times at different time of the day(if it's  a good candidate), shadows can hide things believe me, I  buy and sell boats as a hobby for the past year and learning things everyday  

Ask the owner of the boat to take a walk(at least 30 min) so you'll be comfortable checking it out all by yourself(people are shy checking a boat when the owner is present)  check for overall condition of the boat/hull, walk on the deck, take your time, bounce yourself on the deck everywhere, check for holes not plugged or cracks ,  sit down a while and just look around, with a flashlight and a mirror check the bilge area, with the engine tilt up, climb on the lower unit and  :bounce:  on it, the transom shouldn't flex, test drive is a plus, BUT MOST OF ALL post some pics so we can help you decide  

Marc..

[LilRichard]

There's a whole bunch of stuff to look for.  Here's a few (but certainly not all):

- Look for deflection cracks along the hull bottom, that will signify your broken stringers
- Tilt motor up, then put your body weight on the lower unit.  A good transom will not give
- Have the motor compression tested.  If it's a four stroke, send the oil out for analysis ($25, blackstone labs)
- Stick your head in the hatches and look for stringer separation.  Better yet, stick a camera in the hatch and take a picture.
- Take a rubber mallet and tap the hull from front to back - listen for sound changes that could signify "dead" glass

[sandgnat]

Thanks guys for the replies. I used your advice in looking at a boat this week. Did a sea trial on it today and bought it! Very proud owner of a 1970 22-2 flatback...my first Aquasport! Purchased from member James Derz, super nice guy. Couldn't have asked for a better transaction. My family and I will enjoy many days of fishing on our new boat. Will post pictures soon.  

[Marcq]

Cool   Now lets  see some boat porn :bounce:

Marc..

[sandgnat]

OK, here are a few. I will be posting some questions in the "rebuild" section on some issues that need fixing.







One of my fishing buddies... :queen:

[LilRichard]

Glad you got it!  Look forward to seeing more pictures of how she progresses.

[SULLY_0063]

Nice vessel  

Looks like lots of storage.
Please be safe with the little ones.
I'm located in Tampa and would love to see you on the water.
I pick up my 1989 222 CCP at the end of the month.  I also own
a 1998 175 Osprey now.
Have a great one.

Sully_0063 (Fish On!)

[Capt. Bob]

A little bleach and you're ready to get among 'um.  

Good luck!

[Bushleaguer]

Just my opinion, but I always get nervous when I see a transom reinforced with aluminum plate like that.  It may be wise to look into that a bit further.