when to buy an outboard

[Catherine]

Hi:
I plan to purchase a new outboard motor for next season. (smallest one with FNR, maybe one in compliance w/ new environmental regs. It is for a Ty weekender) Am I more likely to get a better deal if I buy at one time of the year versus another? Are they likely to be any less expensive at a boat show, a local dealer, etc.?
Thanks for the info!



cegbh@cunyvm.cuny.edu

[Chris Reinke (CD330 Innis]

Hi Catherine - I can offer one past experience for your consideration when purchasing a outboard. About 15 years ago I purchased a 9.9 for my daysailer. I found that the dealer was very agreeable to a substantial price reduction if I made my purchase at the end of the season, and prior to the next years models being introduced. So I made my purchase and stored the engine for the winter. The motor worked fine until July of the following year, when the lower unit had a major failure. Upon returning to the shop I was informed that the warranty period had expired since it was determined from the date of purchase. I am sure the warranty periods are much more extensive today but offer this hard learned lesson for your consideration.

Chris

Hi:
I plan to purchase a new outboard motor for next season. (smallest one with FNR, maybe one in compliance w/ new environmental regs. It is for a Ty weekender) Am I more likely to get a better deal if I buy at one time of the year versus another? Are they likely to be any less expensive at a boat show, a local dealer, etc.?
Thanks for the info!

[Neil Gordon]

>>Upon returning to the shop I was informed that the warranty period had expired since it was determined from the date of purchase

If the warranty is measured in years, then it's good for the same number of seasons whether you buy in the fall or in the spring.


Regards, Neil
s/v LIQUIDITY
Cape Dory 28 #167



neil@nrgordon.com

[Chris]

Neil - Unfortunately the parts which failed in my lower unit were only covered for 6 months from the date of purchase. If the period had been a full year then I would have been much better off (and saved a few $$$). I am assuming that most of today’s manufacturers offer a competitive warranty period which is greater than 6 months so this issue may not be relevant.

Live and learn.

>>Upon returning to the shop I was informed that the warranty period had expired since it was determined from the date of purchase

If the warranty is measured in years, then it's good for the same number of seasons whether you buy in the fall or in the spring.


Regards, Neil
s/v LIQUIDITY
Cape Dory 28 #167

[Neil Gordon]

>>Unfortunately the parts which failed in my lower unit were only covered for 6 months from the date of purchase.<<

Bummer. Buy now and it will be six months until you get back in the water. What sort of warranty is that???? (Don't forget to read the fine print. <s>)


Regards, Neil
s/v LIQUIDITY
Cape Dory 28 #167



neil@nrgordon.com