- Joined
- Dec 19, 2003
- RO Number
- 12580
- Messages
- 266
So, I've decided that a new Albin isn't in my budget...but I've found my next boat. Unfortunately, it's across the country, about as far from where I live as it can get: Florida. Pensacola, to be exact. Some pictures from the owner are supposedly on the way, after which I can decide whether to pursue it further. It is a great deal, pricewise, and it would be worth it to drive there and bring it back, gas prices notwithstanding. First quote for shipping was $4800.+ fuel surcharge. Out of the question.
There are so many questions to ponder it seems overwhelming. I've driven cross country 6 times, but would not like to go this route. Having trouble getting a response from other shippers, so that method is kaput, unless I could find like a Bayliner truck or similar heading towards the West Coast empty. The few trucking firms I contacted offered no reply back. Any point on the West Coast would be OK.
One problem with towing it: the existing trailer has no brakes, but the owner believes they could be added. He tells me there are used trailers in the Pensacola area. (this is a 23-28 footer with twin outboards).
So, after I receive pictures, what next? Fly there and look at it? Then have it surveyed? I've thought about buying a bargain priced truck there and towing it back, then selling the truck, but that's a crap shoot. Driving there myself or with a buddy would cost a little more than 2 grand, maybe 3, and that's a conservative estimate, at 10 mpg average, and current fuel prices. Other options include storing it at a friend's house in Jacksonville for the time being, but that's way down the list of options. I need it here to properly prepare it for it's next life. It's not a project POS, but it will need some tinkering and possible re-powering.
One concern is that the fuel tank is foamed in the floor. There are deck covers to inspect the tank and change senders, but not sure how much can be seen regarding water intrusion.
So, the main questions are, any suggestions as to which order I go about such a possible purchase?
And, getting it to any point on the West coast without busting the budget on shipping?
(The boat brand and type will remain anonymous due to other's problems (here) with members attempting to buy out from under. I'm taking enough of a risk just posting this.)
Anyone own a truck who wants to salmon fish Oregon this summer?? and do a little trailering ??
thanks, everyone.
Buzz
There are so many questions to ponder it seems overwhelming. I've driven cross country 6 times, but would not like to go this route. Having trouble getting a response from other shippers, so that method is kaput, unless I could find like a Bayliner truck or similar heading towards the West Coast empty. The few trucking firms I contacted offered no reply back. Any point on the West Coast would be OK.
One problem with towing it: the existing trailer has no brakes, but the owner believes they could be added. He tells me there are used trailers in the Pensacola area. (this is a 23-28 footer with twin outboards).
So, after I receive pictures, what next? Fly there and look at it? Then have it surveyed? I've thought about buying a bargain priced truck there and towing it back, then selling the truck, but that's a crap shoot. Driving there myself or with a buddy would cost a little more than 2 grand, maybe 3, and that's a conservative estimate, at 10 mpg average, and current fuel prices. Other options include storing it at a friend's house in Jacksonville for the time being, but that's way down the list of options. I need it here to properly prepare it for it's next life. It's not a project POS, but it will need some tinkering and possible re-powering.
One concern is that the fuel tank is foamed in the floor. There are deck covers to inspect the tank and change senders, but not sure how much can be seen regarding water intrusion.
So, the main questions are, any suggestions as to which order I go about such a possible purchase?
And, getting it to any point on the West coast without busting the budget on shipping?
(The boat brand and type will remain anonymous due to other's problems (here) with members attempting to buy out from under. I'm taking enough of a risk just posting this.)
Anyone own a truck who wants to salmon fish Oregon this summer?? and do a little trailering ??
thanks, everyone.
Buzz