Looking at a boat that is for sale. The hull number was filled in when the transon was repainted. The owner had a plate made and attached it to the inside of the motor compartment.

I know the owner and he has owned the boat for 18 years. As a potential buyer what should I do abou the hull number issue. I am uncomfortable wit h it being filled in from it's original factory location and now stampted on a plate and attached inside the motor compartemnt.

Mine is the same way.

Call the manufacturer and speak to somebody in customer service. Ask them to verify the hull number. Several times I have I done this as part of a survey if I suspect something isn't just right and I want to protect my customer.

I have uncovered a boat theft ring and several renumbered boats over the years. Many times boat thieves do not understand a manufacturers numbering system and pick an impossible combination. You can't be too careful.