Salt Water??
 

I have to get more educated on this subject. In my new search for a boat I've found that some of the ones have been ran in salt water. What do I have to look for? I'm I making a mountain out of an ant hill? Also is it common for a boat 5-7 years old to have cracks in the gel coat? My 1990 didn't have any that I could find? Can they be repaired with out coming back? Thanks:D

Pull the thermostat housing off, and look all over for salt deposits in the housing and motor. This will give you an indication of regular or non-regular flushing proceedures. Stick your finger in and see if you can feel 'icicles' hanging down from the upper parts of the intake.