Looking at 2001 182BR w/ new engine

[KerrNC]

Hello,

First want to thank in advance for any advice given. Got my eye on a 2001 182 BR. Seller had original 4.3 merc replaced with new 4.3 just last year and has 1 year left on warrantee. Boat has been stored under cover and looks great. What should a newbie ask or get checked out on this boat? I believe 2001 is all fiberglass construction? BTW, seller says original engine block cracked when a cold snap hit before they winterized. Seller also did not seem to mind me taking to a marine shop to check it out.

Much appreciated,

 

[blaster]

That's a great model. I looked at one but settled on the less expensive 180 br. If the engine was replaced was it a complete repower or were components re used? Is the out drive original or is that new too? Things to check are the condition of the fluids. Oil and gear lube should be clean and not milky. As far as model specific problems, I am unaware of any issues but another thing to consider is corrosion. Check the electrical connections, the battery leads, the fuse block, make sure the wiring looks good. Also don't overlook the condition of the trailer. Bearings and brakes can get expensive fast if everything is shot. Make sure the trailer is operational and has a valid inspection sticker. Most of all before you buy it, take it out for a sea trial, and flip every switch, open every seat and hatch, make sure everything operates as it should. If you are still unsure then pay a third party mechanic to so a survey. Best of luck with it, those are great boats.

 

[KerrNC]

That's a great model. I looked at one but settled on the less expensive 180 br. If the engine was replaced was it a complete repower or were components re used? Is the out drive original or is that new too? Things to check are the condition of the fluids. Oil and gear lube should be clean and not milky. As far as model specific problems, I am unaware of any issues but another thing to consider is corrosion. Check the electrical connections, the battery leads, the fuse block, make sure the wiring looks good. Also don't overlook the condition of the trailer. Bearings and brakes can get expensive fast if everything is shot. Make sure the trailer is operational and has a valid inspection sticker. Most of all before you buy it, take it out for a sea trial, and flip every switch, open every seat and hatch, make sure everything operates as it should. If you are still unsure then pay a third party mechanic to so a survey. Best of luck with it, those are great boats.

Thanks for the checklist. I plan to take it out this weekend. Was told it was a complete replacement, but the out drive is original. I'm guessing there is a drain plug in out drive where I can take a small sample? My buddy's 1990 180 BR doesn't have trailer brakes, but I'm thinking this 2001 model does. Seriously thinking about 3rd party mechanic.

 

[blaster]

On the lower unit there is a screw. Use a large screwdriver and have a small cup to catch the oil when you take the screw out. If there is a bad seal in the drive, water will come out before oil, if the oil is milky that is a sign water has emulsified with the oil. Also the screw is magnetic so some metal is normal but if it seems like a lot of shavings or the oil is really dirty it would warrant further inspection.