saltwater usage on used boats

[Pintail]

I agree with the above posts "if the boat has been washed out properly". I wash my boat at out the washout with a scrub brush from stem to stern in and out. I have been properly pissed at the 6 guys in front of me doing the same thing,,,,,,,,,,until I do the same. Did it yesterday at the campground to avoid the line, got the hairy eyeball from the ranger but no problem.

If the boat is berthed for awhile it is a whole different issue.

[AnglingWes]

I also believe that a properly cared for salt boat is better than a freshwater boat that has not been regularly serviced. My Trophy (Pop's boat) ges thuroughly cleaned and prepped every time it leaves the water. My freshwater boat has never even been hosed off unless my neighbor's sprinklers give it a soaking from time to time.

The difficult part when purchasing a used boat is ensuring that all of the previous owners have put forth the effort to properly care for the boat and trailer.

[CRABBY]

I run my aluminum boat in the salt all the time and can tell you its fine. If the motor and hull are properly washed and flushed then I would have no problem purchasing a boat that was used in the salt. IMO I would rather buy a boat from a person who religiously cleaned his boat and went to the salt over a guy who never washed his freshwater boat.

Well that would leave my boat out.Guess I better stay away from salt,LOL.....Don

[SalmoClarki]

I run my aluminum boat in the salt all the time and can tell you its fine. If the motor and hull are properly washed and flushed then I would have no problem purchasing a boat that was used in the salt. IMO I would rather buy a boat from a person who religiously cleaned his boat and went to the salt over a guy who never washed his freshwater boat.
I wouldn't recommend a river jet for the ocean. The ride will beat you to death and the jet pump will endlessly be sucking up crap.

[CRABBY]

Forget any boat from the coast,salt water is like acid an WILL ruin all parts on a boat or car/truck...JMHO.....Don

[Ron Jaeger]

I am starting to look for a used 18-20 ft. river jet boat . I am wondering what to look for as far as buying anything off the coast . What are the long term effects of saltwater usage & what to look for ? Should I just steer clear of them totally ? Are these boats & motors more imune to salt water issues ? Would a 15 year old boat off the coast be a bad buy just because ? Are internal motor issues the biggest concern i.e. - corrosion in the water jackets etc. ? Any difference in outboard versus inboard tolerance ? How aout issues with the hull etc. due to salt. ? Any info would be GREATLY APPRECIATED ! THANKS IN ADVANCED . BTW - what a great site learning loads