new boat with no test drive????

[jmitchell]

My two cents is that we would have bought a boat from Joel site unseen and without a test drive. You can tell by talking with him that he is a very honest and knowledgable person that would not try to screw anyone. Take it for what it is worth but he told us that he won't take in used boats that have major wear and tear. He said he tries to only sell used boats in prestine condition. You can tell by the pictures of the used boats he has had in stock the past 6 months that they are visually and cosmetically in excellent condition. As for the mechanical part, I am shocked that they don't have time to give you a test drive to see how the mechanics work and show you the ins and outs of the boat, but maybe timing is everything being a Saturday. Since it's a dealer you're dealing with (and seemingly an honest one at that) instead of just some Joe Shmo on craigslist than I personally wouldn't hesitate to buy without a test drive.

Right or wrong we bought our Z1 from an individual in TX without a run, drove it home and it worked flawlessly (only 25 hrs on clock though). Maybe we were lucky, but maybe you can also feel out a honest or dis-honest person simply by having a conversation with them. I don't disagree with any of the other responses here, just giving my experience and two cents. Regardless, good luck and I hope you get on the water soon with your new toy!!!

[travis5550]

Ya - I agree with spenchey...i can't believe a dealer would try to get you to buy a boat at that price without even so much as a test drive. I'd almost consider that a bullying sales tactic. how he not take 15 minutes out of his day to let you try out a boat when he is potentially going to make a bunch of commission - very lazy if you ask me. don't rush into things and think with your head when you are spending that kind of cash.

if you can't fit it all into one visit, put down a refundable deposit that is contingent upon a satisfactory sea trial. i would also definitely suggest getting a trade check (or whatever they call it) done if it hasn't been already to check cylinder compression and proper functioning of all mechanical and electrical systems. good luck!

[mls6722]

IMO - It is worth taking a day off work if required to get the boat out. It is a complicated machine and probably clean and runs well, but if not, are you ready to drive it back down there to get something fixed.
I understand a test drive is a 1/2 day ordeal from Stayton. We went 35 + miles to the river to drive my boat. It was windy and pouring rain, but we went through most everything. Trust but verify.

[brykerwoods]

Take it for a test drive. If he tells you no, find another dealer.

[lancehon]

I just talked to joel and worked a deal. everyone is right. about joel,what a class a salesman!

[pzbilly]

Never buy an used boat without test drive

[pdhj1990]

In addition to a test drive, I'd pay to have the boat inspected. Ronald Reagan said "Trust buy Verify".

Good luck

[embo]

I just talked to joel and worked a deal. everyone is right. about joel,what a class a salesman!

I was hoping it would turn out good for you. Hope the boat is everything you want/need. Looking forward to seeing pics of it on here with your name attached to it!!!!

[Nobody]

I bought mine from Tim White (who?) without a test drive.

[rushin]

If you are driving 6 hours, the salesperson should accomedate you IF they want to make a sale. What a tool!

[duffymahoney]

Boat inspection is almost better then a test drive. Both should be done, but a full marine inspection will let you know if anything is broken, missing, scratched, dented etc...!

[Surf406]

try be4 u buy

I WOULD BUY FROM ANOTHER DEALER IF THEY ARE NOT WILLING TO RUN YOU THROUGH THE BOAT. IF THERE PULLING THAT NOW HOW IS THERE SERVICE DEPT.