Aaron Baldwin Posted March 21, 2012 Posted March 21, 2012 Looking at a 1999 12' porta bote tomorrow, Anyone who has one know the kinda things i should look for to make sure it's sea worthy? I think the 1999 model had a wooden transom and wooden seats.... comes with a trailer (that i don't think i want/need) and the boat..... 500 seems reasonable what y'all think? Quote
Super User Wayne P. Posted March 21, 2012 Super User Posted March 21, 2012 Well since it folds up. All the junctions of all the panels can wear/leak. The boat is 13-14 years old. I would fill it up with water to check for leaks. You wouldn't want to be on the the water and then find any leaks. Quote
Aaron Baldwin Posted March 22, 2012 Author Posted March 22, 2012 Thanks, When i got to it it turned out to be a 2009 model, complete with all paperwork, and a home made trailer.... In short picked it up for 400..... a steal i think.... I found this on another site and am posting it here in case anyone needs it.... 1) There will be 3 seats - check to see if they are broken where the braces are attached and make sure that all of the keeper pins (two on each side on the seats - 12 total) are there. 2) Check the transom where the motor would be mounted for damage, Make sure all 4 SS bolts, 2 with rubber washers, and wing nuts are present. 3) Inspect the "stick" that is used to open the boat for cracks. 3) The main seams to inspect are around the flap in the back. I would have him setup the boat with all seats/transom and then pour in 3-5 gals of water inside the boat. Have him move the boat to several position while you observe the seams (outside) for any leakage. Any problems with 1-3 can be fixed at minor cost, but you could work the seller for reductions in price. Any tears in the back flap or major leakage at any seams - DO NOT BUY. Remember there is NO guarantee with used PBs so it is up to you to inspect it close. Quote
Wintersun Posted March 28, 2013 Posted March 28, 2013 There are boats made more than 25 years ago that are still in active use. Early models had a canoe stern which was OK for mounting a trolling motor but not an outboard. New the 12' boats sell for $2000 so you got an incredible deal. Quote
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