Hi im new to this forum and new to boating
Ive been considering over the past months now purchasing a boat. The boat would be around 21ft center console with an outboard I would be traliering the boat not docking it. Now aside from normal engine upkeep as with any engine or car. What type of upkeep can I expect monthly. I hear people say owning a boat is very expensive and tons of upkeep. Then I hear diffrent from other people. I am wondering some of your opinions. Aside from gas and normal engine maintenence what can I expect cost wise?
Ive posted on some other messgae boards and recived comments like if you have to ask the cost you cant afford. Im just doing research. I like to knwo exactlly what im getting into before I do it. Any help is appreciated

Thanks
Anthony

It only tends to get expensive when you ignore the maintenance. An open fish outboard is about the easiest to maintain of all boats. Just keep everything cleaned and flushed, especially if it is a salt water boat. I spray down the powerhead with wd 40, especially the starter. Other than that, the only routine maintenance for an outboard it to change the drive oil once in a great while, and check the impeller. They suggest changing the impeller every year, but I can tell you first hand, on my last outboard, I had the same impeller for 13 years with no problems, and it was all salt water use. Pay particular attention to the trailer maintenance, NOTHING ruins a day more than a broken trailer.

Yup. Cuda said it best "It only tends to get expensive when you ignore the maintenance"

Just be smart and use common sense. If something breaks or is on the verge of breaking and you know it......dont "rig it" just to get on the water. Ive seen many a part go un-fixed because "it runs!" hell ive even been guilty of rigging things myself just to get going that day....but its only been to get me going and most times its been on the water when the part broke.

Have fun!

Also, the number one thing you can do to preserve the value of your boat is get a cover.

Thanks Guys you have been very helpful I appreciate it

I agree with Cuda. I did replace the impellor each year on my last 2 boats as I did alot of shallow water fishing with them and the sand can take a toll on it.