Issues with boat purchase from SE, NE or Great Lakes for use in PNW?

[33RPM]

Can anyone comment on issues and concerns about purchasing a trawler from the US SE, NE or Great Lakes for use in the PNW? I’m aware there would be more complexities in the purchase and that moving the boat would be a substantial cost. Others issues or concerns, or expansions on those? For example, would a heat pump for AC and heat work well with in PNW, and would there be issues with inside condensation? If a boat has been in warmer saltwater or freshwater does it hold up well when moved to colder saltwater? Thanks.

 

[TheButcher]

Hello 33RPM, I am no expert on the warmer to colder water question but can say that the heat pump for the AC and heat will work fine here in the PNW. You will probably use the heat more than the AC but the AC will be a very nice option to have for the warmer summer months. I do know that many Rangers have been moved cross country without and real big complexities. What size Ranger are you considering moving cross country? If you need a trailer I have a near new trailer for sale that is for a R-29 or a R-31CB. Please give me a call at 509-470-4679 as I would really like to chat with you regarding the trailer and a R-31CB I have here in Washington State. Sincerely, Don Owens

 

[gswearin]

Only thing that comes to mind is heat. If its an outboard and doesn't have lithium I don't think you'd have heat while cruising.

 

[Mike and Sarah]

Only thing that comes to mind is heat. If it’s an outboard and doesn't have lithium I don't think you'd have heat while cruising.

If it’s an outboard without lithium, it should have the Webasto heater.

 

[Jesperjo]

I can’t imagine there’s much issue coming from going from warmer to colder salt water. However, any time you move a boat from one body of water to another you obviously need to clean the bottom to ensure you don’t also move invasive species. That’s state law in Washington too.

 

[Submariner]

Only thing that comes to mind is heat. If its an outboard and doesn't have lithium I don't think you'd have heat while cruising.

Most of the outboards that don't have LFP, are NW editions and have a diesel heater. In the early years of LFP being offered (2020-2021 model years), an LE could be purchased with or without LFP. (LFP was an upgrade option). I know of a few who wanted air conditioning but didn't want LFP. These boats were LE's that offered "dockside air conditioning" as they needed shore power.

Diesel heat works while under way, as does reverse cycle heat with LFP.

 

[Fishmagnet]

Going east to west you will be required to stop at several boat inspection stations on Interstate 90. Montana has two, Idaho and Washington each have one. The great lakes is considered a hot bed for invasive species and Idaho is especially thorough inspecting boats. They have power washed our boat with hot water twice on our trips out west because we had come from lake Superior. Dinghys and kayaks will also be inspected and don't be surprised if your anchor rope and chain are inspected and cleaned. Keep some tools handy because you'll need to drain any flush ports on outboard motors. Save your inspection reports along the way so you can prove whats been inspected. At the first stop in Montana they will secure a tag between the bow of your boat and the trailer. It proves you've not launched the boat since it's been inspected. Everyone we've met at these stations has been friendly and there is rarely a wait to be inspected. Going back east you will be required to stop at the same inspection stations. If you're coming from saltwater they will be much less concerned about invasives. The folks in Idaho were not interested in power washing our boat after coming from the Pacific ocean.

 

[venajeff]

Going east to west you will be required to stop at several boat inspection stations on Interstate 90. Montana has two, Idaho and Washington each have one. The great lakes is considered a hot bed for invasive species and Idaho is especially thorough inspecting boats. They have power washed our boat with hot water twice on our trips out west because we had come from lake Superior. Dinghys and kayaks will also be inspected and don't be surprised if your anchor rope and chain are inspected and cleaned. Keep some tools handy because you'll need to drain any flush ports on outboard motors. Save your inspection reports along the way so you can prove whats been inspected. At the first stop in Montana they will secure a tag between the bow of your boat and the trailer. It proves you've not launched the boat since it's been inspected. Everyone we've met at these stations has been friendly and there is rarely a wait to be inspected. Going back east you will be required to stop at the same inspection stations. If you're coming from saltwater they will be much less concerned about invasives. The folks in Idaho were not interested in power washing our boat after coming from the Pacific ocean.

So the lesson is when going back east tell them that you were in some fresh water lake, not the ocean, and get a nice hot power washing. 🙂

 

[William Sanborn]

We bought our boat in the PNW (Columbia River), but after 3 or more owners its a 2011 RT-27 Diesel, and were told the boat was first sold in Texas and the folks used in East Texas, and every year trailored to the San Juans. Think this is correct because the Garmin was full of marked spots in Texas and Louisiana. as well as San Juans and Canadian waters.
Boat has Gen Set and heat pump, which are very adiquate, but keep thinking about adding a Diesel Heater, but for the 5 or 6 times a year when we are out in bad weather the Gen Set keeps us comfortable, and over nights are at Club Outstation with dock power. So buying a boat away from your home cruising grounds #1 look for one that comes with a trailor, and lots of information on the Forums about buying a boat and the steps to follow for a smooth purchase.

 

[33RPM]

Thank you all for the helpful info.