how do you "kick the tires" on a used canoe

[Raynard]

I will be headed to Iowa shortly and a fellow there has a 1991 Old Town Canadienne 17 foot lake canoe for sale.

Since we are flat water, open boat, tandem paddlers, I plan on taking a look at it and potentially buying it. This is my first time buying a canoe (new or used). What should I be sure to check out?

Raynard (Mike Tharp)

[Randy Dodson]

I don't know that much about fiberglass but you can look for exposed fibers, also if it has aluminum gunnels, check to see that they aren't bent and whatever kind of gunnels it has, check for tightness of the gunnels and seats and thwarts.

If it seems excessively faded it could mean that it's been stored outside. I THINK....that a milky opaque appearance means that the gel-coat is in bad shape but am not sure.

Iowa huh ? If the guys name is Max Wellhouse or Al Donaldson, they won't steer you wrong.

[Raynard]

The boat is Kevlar with wood decking, gunnels and seats.

Through Eric Esche, I did contact Al Donaldson. While he is not the one selling the boat, he was quite helpful.

Raynard (Mike Tharp)