Pre purchase Survey : The purpose of the survey is to gather as much information as possible about the condition, value, and maintenance history of the vessel. A pre purchase survey is concerned first and foremost with the safety of the vessel and its passengers.  This survey will consist of an overview of the many different systems installed on the vessel. This includes the visible areas of the hull structure, plumbing systems, electrical systems, navigation electronics, safety equipment, and other systems that may be installed. If conditions permit, a sea trial can and should be conducted to evaluate the overall operation of the vessel and its systems.  A fair market value appraisal and the replacement cost of the vessel will also be given.

The Condition and Valuation Survey : This survey is meant to be a general overview of the vessel and its systems. This type of survey is intended for use by insurance and finance companies to determine the underwriting decision of a particular vessel. This survey will not approach the level of a pre purchase survey. The primary focus is to identify the vessel, its equipment, overall condition and general value without testing full system operation. It also seeks to identify hazardous conditions that pose a safety risk to the vessel and its passengers. 

The Appraisal Survey : Is performed to gather information to justify and determine the fair market of the vessel. This survey may be used in refinancing or to settle legal claims, an estate case or a non-profit donation to charity. The focus of this survey is limited to setting a fair market value based on the vessel systems and overall condition.

Sea Trial: A sea trial is a bay test to determine the operation of the vessels machinery, systems, and structure.  On gas and diesel engines, we perform rudimentary engine surveys. What this means is that not only do we performance test the engines, but will perform a complete visual inspection. While this may not seem like much, a surveyor can learn a lot just by observing the running condition of the engines. We check for oil leaks, coolant leaks, fuel leaks and check the steering system, engine controls, shafting, engine mounts, and exhaust systems.  We also check that all belts and hoses are performing properly and not frayed or leaking. Gauges are observed to see if the engine is turning the recommended Rpms and is running within the manufacturers specifications. If an engine is not performing properly or a problem is indicated, a repair recommendation will be made, or you will be advised to consult a manufacturers certified mechanic for further diagnosis. If you prefer a more thorough engine analysis, then a full engine survey is highly recommended by a certified manufacturer or mechanic. Yes, the cost is substantial, but so are repair costs. Repair costs on diesels typically run 4 times that of gas engines. After looking at the engine, we may advise you that an engine survey is necessary. Therefore, it is highly recommended that an independent engine surveyor be engaged for a full engine survey.

Compression Testing : All used 2 stroke outboards will benefit from a compression test due to their extreme operation conditions with the potential for ring failure. A large variation in compression values will indicate a potential problem if not already seen in its running condition. Four stroke engines, will usually only need to be tested if a problem in the running condition is observed. But bear in mind that the ability to perform compression tests depends on a variety of factors, such as the ability to reach and get the spark plugs out. Plus we have to deal with gasoline and the dangers of explosions. Therefore, we will be unable to advise you whether we can perform a compression test until we have actually seen the vessel. Compression testing of outboard motors is not a problem and we can do this in most any case. Without proper compression, the engine will not run properly. The surveyor will make a recommendation if we fell that this is needed.

Lower Unit Pressure Testing: This test will indicate faulty seals in both the upper and lower half of the gear case. If water is allowed to enter the case, this will cause excessive friction on the gears and engine. If the water is not detected, this can lead to expensive gear case repair bills. This test is done by draining the oil from the case and then using a vacuum and pressure gauge to determine if the seals will hold pressure and keep the water out. This test can be used on outboard motors and all stern drives.

Spectro Metric Oil Analysis: Is an engine oil test, used to determine if excess engine wear is occurring, based on the different types of metal particles found in the oil. This is not quite as valuable a diagnostic tool as many people have been lead to believe. To do an analysis of wear metals, one first needs to know how long the engine oil has been in service, but this is something we almost never know. The main benefits of an oil analysis are that it can determine if there is salt, water or antifreeze in the oil. As a tool for determining internal wear, it is basically only useful when conditions of extreme wear are present. Very often, we get no indication of what it is that is wearing excessively. After the samples are obtained, they then have to be sent to a lab service. It usually takes 5-7 days before obtaining the results.

Osmosis Testing: Is a test used to determine if excess moisture is present in areas of the hull that are not visible to the eye. Moisture can be present without delamination occurring and this can pin- point potential problem areas. This type of testing may be undertaken on a vessel that shows signs of moisture intrusion around fittings, blisters, or soft spots in the transom stringers and bulkheads. However, this test is not an infallible way to test for moist areas. Many variables come into play when using a moisture meter. These include delamination, bottom paint, voids in the lay-up of mat and resin, water in the bildge, and the length of time the boat has been out of the water. The meter may detect moisture that can only be verified by destructive testing of the hull to verify the meter readings.