Questions about 1998 Parker 1801

[Hook1fred]

Going to look at a 1998 1801 tomorrow and have a couple questions. What are differences between the 1998 1801 and the new 1801's? Any problems that were common in those earlier boats?

The seller is confident I'll be blown away with its condition and I am having the engine looked over by a reputable shop before the deal goes down. I've had boats for 15 years so I know what to look for in a Lemon.

Any areas I need to really focus on, e.g., transom, console, keel?

 

[DaleH]

What are differences between the 1998 1801 and the new 1801's?

No idea and doubt many could answer that ...

Any problems that were common in those earlier boats?

I would say with a Parker, the issues would focus on anywhere where the previous owner added a screw or bolt through the wood core and didn't protect it.

Any areas I need to really focus on, e.g., transom, console, keel?

Transom cap if a cut-out non-bracketed/full transom boat. Make sure any trim cap on the notch is well sealed w/ 3M 5200.

Anytime I buy a new-to-me boat, a Parker or not, I remove EVERY piece of installed gear/equipment/item I can and I check for water intrusion and/or rot. Then every fastener is cleaned, re-sealed/gooped and installed. CAUTION - when doing this w/ bedding compounds, see to follow, I do NOT fully torque down the fastener until after the bedding has cured - if a thru bolt. If a screw, never screw down so darn tight that you squeeze out all of the bedding, as that results in a 'dry' joint.

For in bilge or below the waterline use, use 3M 5200. For anything above waterline, but still needing to be rain/splash watertight, I highly recommend LifeCaulk by BoatLife. Everything else gets LifeSeal by BoatLife.

Good luck!