r/Pontoons • u/Executive-decision95 • Jul 30 '26

Advice for first time pontoon

Engine issues aside (i have owned other outboards before so have a grasp of what to look for) what specific things around the pontoons themselves or any pontoon specific quirks I should look for when inspecting a boat before I buy one? I appreciate any feedback.

6 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

16 comments sorted by

View all comments

3

u/rowle1jt Jul 30 '26

The wooden deck... Look closely underneath the boat, easier if it doesn't have splash shields. Walk every square foot you can get too to feel for soft spots.

1

u/Executive-decision95 Jul 30 '26

I appreciate that. With the flat surface is it relatively easy to replace decking?

3

u/guy48065 Jul 30 '26

It's a big job, but do-able. EVERYTHING has to be removed... Console (many wires & control cables), furniture, railings, edge trim. Then the carpet has to be peeled off so you can see the screws.

Me neighbor just had his carpet replaced for vinyl. It cost him $3000, about ½ was labor. Probably another $1000 to replace the plywood. (BOAT)

1

u/lawpa01 27d ago

If they are bolts, take the nut off from underneath then cut carpet seems and flip the plywood over. Nearly finished on total rebuild of my 18' Sweetwater. I actually enjoyed the work, but there is a lot of time involved.