I Spent $15,000 on a Boat and I Think I Regret it

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Ready for another boat life adventure? 🌊 After months of careful boat ownership research, I finally took the plunge on a used boat that's perfect for bahamas crossing adventures! Join me as I share my detailed boat review of this incredible vessel, and learn why boat financing might be easier than you think. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just dreaming of life on the water, hit that subscribe button for more nautical adventures! 🚤
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I Spent $15,000 on a Boat and I Think I Regret it
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[@BrandonGross]

Thank you all for the support! Can't wait to start exploring down here! Check out the new merch! brandongross-shop.fourthwall.com/

[@virtualburton]

I have to say, I was blown away. I bought a Shirt and Brandon sent me a personal video. Never had anyone do that before. I’m impressed at the sincerity. 😊

[@scottiswatchingtele]

So you hooked up the stereo before you tested the gamin? Seems like you got it all worked out. Engines sound good. Looks fun.

[@jasonworkman4660]

Great video as usual. You are BadAzz to go ahead and tackle any job. Hopefully since you got those drain plugs finally out I hope you bought ones to replace old ones. Boats going to be awesome repairs are cheaper then boat payment especially since your doing the labor. Those 2 strokes should rip since being tuned up.Can’t to see your new Salt boat life Adventures.

[@gameplaynightmare]

If those engines for some reason don’t run good after the spark plugs you need to index them, meaning the strap of the injector cannot face the fuel rail in the center

[@goprotests5428]

As a boat owner myself, I love how detailed you go into things. Keep the long videos coming we appreciate it

[@chris47374]

I just said the same thing to video all the upgrades and fixes, and also told him about looking into a website out there with people having 3d printers prob can make him a trim piece way cheaper then factory piece.

[@Mspocket12]

This is gonna be so fun to watch!! Many boat people are bossy and think they know everything. Don’t let the haters negativity get you down!

[@johnathonuncapher7523]

i would say a majority of the time, a boat owner is going to be far more knowledgable and experienced with their boat, and aware of the risks of using it in hazardous areas such as rivers, tidal areas, and ocean. They are also going to be making decisions based off the the mechanical condition of their boat, and their own personal capabilities as a captain, I know myself can come across as bossy to some of the guests Ive had on my boat and I should find the nicest way possible. But sometimes i need somebody to grab the rope, take a look at the outdrive, line me up on my trailer, etc. I find the guests who have come out with me half a dozen times or so I don't need to say anything to them anymore. Now they understand what needs to happen, and what to look for when in a hazardous or stressful situation to help us get through it as quickly and easily as possible. Im sure that as i gain more experience myself, I will find new ways to figure out a problem on my own without the help of a guest or deckhand, but a 2nd set of eyes/hands makes a lot of things much easier.

[@michaeldemaio3601]

I admire your courage in fixing that boat. I think you did well. The major stuff looks corrected and the minor stuff and upgrades happens on all boats. Nice work.

[@JulieIreland]

Love it!!! The Bahamas is so beautiful! It's been so fun to watch you grow your knowledge and your memories! Thanks for taking us along on the adventures!

[@BrandonGross]

My pleasure!! Sharing these adventures with everyone is such a blessing to me. It's been one wild ride and it keeps getting better!

[@thomaslangton3464]

Just a word of advice, constantly monitor your water depth.... water gets real skinny real fast in Florida, and I know you love your throttle...lol. Great video, great work...congratulations!

[@bearparts]

Seeing your video up this morning made me smile. Congrats on living the dream.

[@teasystableent]

Meet you in miami soon for our interview brother! Thank you for the inspiration legend.

[@19211926]

I've owned boats for yrs and yrs. Good to see you going through all the systems. The only thing I haven't see you do or talk about is the water pump impellers. If you don't know any history about them I would highly recommend you replace them asap. Have fun. Mike

[@garygallagher5978]

Brandon, you're on a great learning curve, Gus from "In too deep" went through the same thing so every time he changed his boat he had more experience and know how.

[@jimpaddock7745]

Check the O-rings on those deck fill caps as water can leak into your fuel tanks etc. Also a carpet cleaner with an upholstery attachment will clean those carpeted walls and the ceiling really good. Have fun and watch out for the shallow waters of Florida. Stay in the channel!

[@robertbarriger2596]

Congrats Brandon - the journey continues!!

[@FX25SC]

Great start for your boating in FL. The learning & experience you gain by diagnosing and repairing yourself is priceless 👌.

[@Floatdude86]

Make sure to put a lock on that hitch and service the trailer too. Great buy, have fun fixing everything and get out on the water really soon.

[@malcolmyoungacdc]

Had two Optimax 125's and we're great engines. One thing I learnt is that they have a raw water strainer screwed into the block, from this water is then taken up to the compressor. If that strainer gets neglected / not serviced it can get blocked with debris, then the cooling of the compressor is compromised as a result and then "BANG". Worth looking into if your 175's have the same. If they do, service them frequently. All the best 🇦🇺

[@thetreasuredbottle4642]

this is amazing! coming to Florida in few months maybe I'll see ya. new chapter man!

[@CoreyBuschDSB]

That's a sweet boat, I can't wait to see it when you're all done. Congrats man can't wait to see you in the Bahamas

[@thormankg]

I really hope you can meet up with Gus his channel is in to deep. I think yall would end up being great friends. Love the boat and im glad you are in the south.

[@josephsimanski3192]

Following this because I've owned my 32' Regal express cruiser for 14 years now and I'm ready to downsize. Your new boat is exactly what I plan to get into next as far as size and power. I do all my own repairs as well so your content is a great match with me, thank you!

[@worldtree4038]

Brandon.. Good luck with the Salty Boat life! Been watching since the Ambo was your new rig, always felt you had a solid attitude . Great idea with the comments on the merch✌️

[@jennychickie83]

Good for you for figuring out how to fix all this stuff! I'm looking forward to seeing you achieve your goal of making it to the Bahamas. I'm a bit scared for your safety tho. You're a smart guy, I'm sure you'll choose the right timing and do all the research to make sure that trip is as safe as it could possibly be. Your new merch looks cool, your sister did a great job with the design. You made me laugh when you flubbed up your lines lol I love the random silliness. I'll be in Florida near the end of December. Maybe we'll bump into each other.

[@r_6ixx]

Congratulations on your new boat enjoy it‼️

[@karimoore106]

I love going on these journeys with you! You amaze me how much you know about things and want to tackle them! It’s an awesome boat and you’ll definitely have fun in this! ❤

[@MrLucas7414]

It’s great to hear that you’ve made so many repairs and have everything fixed up on the new boat! Your skills and collection of tools for tackling issues are impressive. I hope you have a fantastic time in Florida!

[@SarahFairbairnSacaKat]

Awesome video! Love how with perseverance and research you and Gunner were able to get this new boat beauty of yours up and running. Looking forward to seeing what adventures you have with it in the future.

[@enjoylife7030]

I think there were signs that indicated this boat was gonna need a good bit of maintenance. The way the electronics were mounted and the ignition switches followed up by the one engine not being operational for seemingly something simple to have had fixed were all indications that the previous owner was not into the details. Overall I think you did good for the age of the boat with the newer outboards. For a 30 year old boat it will be a good start once you have finished the remaining repairs. Gotta say I am a bit jealous that I didn't leave a mean comment in the past, I could've been famous on your Merch!

[@ericjackson6601]

You're going to LOVE boating in the ICW and surrounding areas

[@josephbobgreen]

I love how you just learn things as you go. It’s super inspiring and makes the average person think it’s possible to get into boat life. Keep up the great work!

[@mattpoore3671]

By far one of the best videos I’ve watched from you. I enjoyed how you tackled the issues as I would have. Can’t wait to see the future videos.

[@dsfsdfdsfsdf9806]

That new merch is hilarious, I love it!

[@shanejones809]

Don’t forget to check your water pump impellers. If those are old and go bad the engines will overheat and go boom.

[@gittojr1]

Love how humble you are, I am green at this boating thing so thank you!!

[@jdeshetlerII]

Glad you are learning a lot here. The trim tab system in of itself is a learning curve with its own hydraulic system and pump that needs bled and filled and troubleshooting. Many times it's either the rams with bad seals or the switches at the helm that go bad. Replacing the switches with the switches that have a light indication on how far up and down the trim tabs are is highly recommended.

[@Playnhooky]

One of the best videos so far! Cool boat and can’t wait to watch more. Thanks for the entertainment on my Monday night !

[@markachten6708]

Hey mate I’m in Australia and just watched your video. Loved it great to see a young bloke having a go.

[@david_lbz1286]

Great content! Good luck with the new boat. Love all the updates and upgrades! Boat life is the best life.

[@tatersaladfpv1033]

For the plastic covers you should find someone local to 3d print you replacements. Lots of people hire our their printers and could even design it for you on the cheap.

[@prestonbrubach2431]

Congrats on the new boat, don’t sweat the repairs at least you are like me and not afraid to tackle them yourself. That’s a huge money saver and you know it’s done correctly. Love the boat videos I live in Pittsburgh and I’m jealous, my 2 boats are winterized and parked in my yard with a dusting of snow. Be safe!

[@rugbyjoey015]

Came across from Ryan Twomey Chanel and have stayed and watched all your vids.... Awesome content mate. Love it

[@evelynlobos1354]

Wow! ❤❤❤❤❤❤ beautiful boat Mr.B❤❤❤❤❤ you have done a great job fixing all those gadgets but you saved yourself a lot of money in the end! Clever man! Your brother in law is a bloody good man to help you. ❤❤❤❤ have fun now with new adventures Mr.B! Lots of love from your Aussie fan in Melbourne❤️Australia

[@chris47374]

Brando excited for the next several videos of u diagnosis and fixing the boat and the new adventures !!!

[@chris47374]

Hey I'd look at it like this the boat needs a lot of little things to bring it up to par but hey that's free n good content for filming and I'd record it all too.

[@chris47374]

Hey bro I'd check out some places online u said that trim piece from the factory was expensive there is websites with people that have plastic 3d printers u can send the dimensions too and they will 3d print it out for u and send in mail might b worth looking into save u some bucks vs factory piece I can do some research for u if ur super busy and help u maybe looking into a site that someone could do that for u, was just a thought to help u save some cash and I do know that another guy I watch orders things alot like that if he don't have means make it or purchase it himself he does it quit a bit.

[@fletchlives13]

Badass B .. This is going to be a Great experience in life. Get out there! Sweet boat, cant wait to see how you set it up. Do it right the first time. Thanks brotherman

[@j1alex]

Love the channel. Bought a used 26 Searay a few years ago. I've learned SO much (lost money) as well! I don't regret it one bit, however. She runs like a champ now!

[@BillysDailyTravels]

Great Videos, Taking the time to go through everything is critical to finding issues. As a boat owner and a sailboat owner, take time and check everything.

[@randyroth383]

A lot of people don't no but leaf spring get rusty right if you want to put new ones on this is what I do I use transmission fluid on them with a paint brush on new ones every 6 months an they stay new an not rust up I had mine on for 8 years an no rust yet. Florida boy 🙋 don't use motor oil doesn't work, fluid does

[@adamhenley6534]

Nice tip!

[@johnnyohness]

Love your video. I'm like you, in that I want to buy a boat but know so little about repairing it. I learned a lot just from watching your journey in repairs. There is one rule of thumb though on items like this. Buy your toy but get ready to spend at least 50% of the cost of it just to bring it back to top condition. You have the perfect amount of amenities in your cabin for a fishing vessel. A bed for overnights, especially when it's training, a space but functional galley, and a head. People really appreciate you showing the problems and how you fixed them. Showing them everything will get you tons of subs and likes.

[@et3152]

As someone who has went through this process with a friends "new boat" this is so refreshing to see. We literally went through the same process, albeit on a bigger boat w inboards. I had to laugh when you installed the brand new sound system on a boat that (so far) isnt sea worthy, and may not be...We also did that :D good luck! Its a labor of love.

[@like_sherlock]

There is probably no trim because those MFD's are probably stolen. Also that engine management screen and the throttles don't match those motors. They are much much newer. Great channel

[@theoutdoorcritic]

Congrats! That boat is going to come out sick! The time and dedication you put it will show!

[@virtualburton]

Awesome! Love the new boat and the content. I used to have a Trophy very similar to your Robalo. Thanks for sharing!

[@iimcastro]

that was an awesome video Brandon, thanks for taking us on this ride with you. i actually enjoyed watching this whole process it was very informative too. and i will be watching the whole journey until you reach The Bahamas good luck my friend waiting for more content :D

[@DarylMartin-c1w]

What a dream job/Lifestyle!! Great adventure to watch unfold, including a DIY growth moments. Nicely done Sir!

[@taurota1554]

Awesome and outstanding content as always.Thanks for sharing and taking us along.

[@wavepiercer6569]

Congratulation for the new boat. I am convinced that you will have a lot of fun with it.

[@CPMUNSEY]

Congrats on the new boat and life in Miami. Enjoy brotha!! Can’t wait to go along for the ride.

[@jahanas22]

Congrats on the new boat. Looking forward to the adventures to come.

[@BrandonGross]

Thanks! Can’t wait to get out there and bring you with me!

[@Jay-zs4cc]

I always look forward to your next video, so many learnings for when I eventually get my boat. Are you planning on keeping the same name? Can't wait for the shirt and the next video, keep the long videos coming!

[@chrisbatenhorst9171]

Enjoyed the content of this video. Good luck with the new boat. Looking forward to future videos as always.

[@sebippolito]

Just recently started watching. Love the content.

[@festustabor1803]

I'm really looking forward to the new adventures. I first discovered you in hell hole. Been watching ever since. Good luck out there.

[@BrandonGross]

You're a loong time fan, hell yeah! Can't wait to show you the new adventures!!

[@scottcol23]

Hell yeah! cannot wait for the blue water content!

[@BrandonGross]

Same here!! So much left to be explored with this new boat and I can't wait to share it with you!

[@russellmiller8332]

Welcome to the boating community. You’re finding out what BOAT means”Bring Out Another Thousand”. Great video and congrats. The fun of boating doesn’t have a finite cost. It’s just fun.

[@steveoadams2434]

I just ordered my merch Brandon can't wait !

[@HeKatesCrossing]

Exciting new journey ahead for you... Can not wait to see how you keep moving ahead ...Take care .. enjoy the journey .,..

[@4everboatlife]

Love your videos brother keep uploading more videos.

[@gailbernhart1389]

Great new boat and am enjoying watching you fix it up!

[@BrandonGross]

I’m stoked you’re liking the boat repairs! It's both a lot of fun and a headache at the same time 😂

[@wyattn2690]

Ben waiting for this video for a week and love the content been following for a wile now and like the boat stuff

[@rickybobby786]

Nice job Brandon! You’ve done all the preventative maintenance and got her running sweet!! I’m in Florida and have wanted a boat my entire life. Maybe one day 🤞🏼

[@BrandonGross]

Cheers! It's the first thing you should be doing, whether car or boat, always gotta get that preventative mantainence done. Sure it's a short term loss financially, but long term gain.

[@Bozinian]

Nice video Am in the bahamas looking forward to seeing you make your over here

[@davidcooper2516]

Yeah...been there/done that. Learned a lot, spent a lot. Seven boats later, my motto and present ride to prove it: simple is better than complicated. Have fun, man!

[@staceymiller4765]

Great job with what you have done! Made it look easy!

[@DADuTV_]

The information and responsibility doing slow and right on this episode made me fired up about my own “mehhh should I?” I’m looking at dumping a chunk into a prevost bus RV.

[@DADuTV_]

Make merch that’s about exploring or adventure please. I went to buy your merch to support but it wasn’t my speed. Make ambo and e bike merch!

[@YotaguyJosh]

Your electrical diag skills never cease to amaze me. Either that or you’re super lucky. 😝 great find brother. Congrats on the new boat. ✌️

[@markbucknell1]

Great video Brandon for the start of this new adventure! Repairs! It’s a boat, as you well know by now, there are always repairs! 😉enjoy 👍🇬🇧

[@abcd827]

That's a great platform for what you're doing. Things will go wrong, but you're being very thorough and reducing that risk. Make sure your chat plotter maps are as up to date as possible, and keep an eye on depth. Enjoy and congrats on the new adventure!

[@BrandonG85]

Liking the boat videos Brandon! Keep it up!

[@christopher3342]

Keep Gunnar shirtless! 😍😍❤️❤️

[@marshall8898]

One little tip I have learned from doing a bunch of work on my boat all at once with out testing each new thing you put on individually is if you did something wrong, you won’t know where to check, especially when you start changing a bunch of wiring all at once

[@Denton288]

Dude bro, i agree that yeah a lot of little annoying things make you think... bruh did I get screwed here? But honestly, you're digging into its guts (the boat). Learning everything about your newly acquired vessel. If something breaks you will know exactly what is happening and how to access and fix said problem. It's like owning a new to you used car. You gotta clean up the previous guys mess of a ghetto stereo system with its outrageously rigged everything.... to install your ideal badass stereo system in its place. Know what I mean? Oh and great choice on the Scar audio components! I love their subs and amps. 🎉🎉 Congratulations on your new boat! Im hella jelly, it's my dream also to boat out into the ocean and find those insane beaches with the clear waters! CHEERS!

[@joseescuredo416]

I think on my experience u did a great purchase!!! Congrats welcome to Florida boating and enjoy that beauty !!! See u in the water 💪🏼💪🏼

[@sherryreinhardt3845]

You are such an amazing chameleon!!! You adapt and learn so easily to any life change and situation, very impressed!!

[@Royal-ht9gi]

hey man im a mechanic so i enjoy seeing the maintenance and repairs on the boat, when getting those drainplugs unstuck an impact driver wouldve saved you some time theyre cheap and good to have for seized hardware

[@wisconsineaglesfan7925]

Congrats on the new boat! Make sure you get an EPIRB, if the worst should happen, you will 100% want to have one.

[@maxallen17]

Great video. Can't wait to see florida.

[@rade6063]

Great video, looking forward to upcoming adventures

[@BrandonGross]

Cheers! Can't wait to share them with you!!

[@Nerger-cn9pl]

This content was totally epic! Keep Up the content!!!

[@rudyu2767]

Great video. Make sure you keep that right motor oil can full of two stroke oil. If it goes dry it will fry the motor. Also, they should have two tanks that have spare two-stroke oil inside the boat that fill the ones on the motor. Make sure those are filled and working properly.

[@chelsigodfrey1368]

Good luck on your new endeavors! Once you get to the Bahamas make sure to snorkle and drink a fancy drink from coconut lol it just hits the spot

[@CarlBryant-kn5jd]

Remove the line insert in the rub rail and replace it with the black insert. Cheap upgrade and really updates the outer appearance and doesn't feel like sandpaper.

[@pamelataylor412]

Its great to see your can do attitude toward literally anything. Very inspirational. I think from now on when I run into a snag while running my small ranch, I’ll just ask myself “what would Brandon do?”🥰

[@BrandonGross]

Aww! Gotta have that positive attitude, complaining and getting upset ain't gonna fix it. May as well do it with a smile on my face and enjoy it.

[@danielsayger4872]

That boat is perfect for you. Remember, you are overhauling a 1995! That boat is going to treat you well, my friend. Love your content, always. You inspire me.

[@DustinKeating-yk3vq]

As long as you did that compression test and it was all good then you probably good. That compression test is a must while buying a used boat

[@bdmenne]

Stoked for you, brother.

[@CustomcrowdMitroc]

you guys are so blessed to have reasonable priced boats in the usa. that boat here is australia would easily pull $100,000. i wish we could get boats as cheap as you guys in america can

[@johnsnyder1046]

Love the do it yourself attitude, best if you have the time 🛠

[@Randy_4664]

Congrats on the new purchase.

[@Rpm6971]

That’s boat life, and bike life it always costs more than you expect. More money more time, it’s the enjoyment you get from it at the end that matters.

[@wrestlefreak05]

love following the journey!

[@lauraslanesvanlifetravels]

Hi Brandon....well, I usually don't watch these types but it is cool that you can learn "as you go," and actually do it so easily...I know some people can do that, I have so much trouble w/learning that kinda stuff but I do have some physical limitations w/my hands, I do wish I could learn how to fix my car at times but there's always something that's just too tight or things like that and my hands have neuropathy so it's a no for me. I did want to see your new boat and congrats again on your new boat and new location, despite all the unforeseen repairs.💜

[@anthonygonzalez4423]

Love ur boat brother..be safe out there