Askeladden P65 RIB

2014 Askeladden P65 RIB: What to Check, What to Fix, and How to Get More from It If you’re looking at a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, chances are you already know it has the kind of practical, go-anywhere appeal that makes RIBs so popular. It’s a boat that can work well for family outings, coastal runs, fishing trips, and everyday summer use. But like any used boat, especially one that’s been on the water for a decade or so, the real question isn’t just whether it looks good in the photos. It’s whether it’s been properly maintained, whether the tubes and hull are still in solid shape, and whether the engine setup matches how you want to use it. That’s where many buyers and owners run into the same problem: the boat may seem fine at first glance, but hidden wear, neglected servicing, or mismatched equipment can turn a good purchase into an expensive headache. The good news is that most of these issues can be spotted early if you know what to look for. With a sensible inspection routine, a few practical maintenance habits, and a clear idea of what matters most on the 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, you can avoid the common pitfalls and enjoy the boat with a lot more confidence. - Why the 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB Still Gets Attention The 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB sits in a sweet spot for many boaters. It’s large enough to feel stable and capable, but still compact enough to be manageable for trailering, launching, and mooring in many situations. For buyers, that balance is a big part of the appeal. A well-kept RIB of this size can offer: - Good stability at rest - Comfortable handling in choppier water - Flexible use for family, leisure, and light utility work - Lower running costs than many larger boats - Easier storage and transport than a full-sized cabin boat That said, older RIBs are often judged less by model name and more by condition. The hull, tubes, deck fittings, and engine history matter far more than the badge on the side. If you’re researching the 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, the smartest approach is to focus on condition, maintenance records, and how the boat has been used. - The Main Problem Buyers Face With a Used RIB The most common issue with a used RIB like the 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB is simple: hidden wear is easy to miss. A boat can look clean in listing photos and still have: - Air leaks in the tubes - UV damage on the hypalon or PVC - Corrosion on fittings or fasteners - Soft spots in the deck - Poorly maintained steering or fuel systems - An engine that’s been under-serviced This is especially true if the boat has spent years outside, been used in saltwater, or sat unused for long periods. The problem is not just the repair cost. It’s the uncertainty. Buyers often struggle to tell the difference between: - Normal cosmetic aging - Wear that is still manageable - Problems that will become expensive soon That’s why a proper inspection process is so important. It helps you separate a solid boat from one that will eat into your time and budget. - What Makes the 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB Worth Inspecting Carefully The 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB can be a very sensible option if it has been cared for. Boats in this category are often bought by owners who want practical performance rather than flashy extras, which is a good thing. Still, age and use matter. By 2014, any RIB is old enough that you should expect some wear. The key is whether that wear has been managed properly. A boat with regular washdowns, annual servicing, dry storage, and careful use can still be in excellent shape. A boat with neglected tubes, tired electronics, and a questionable service history can be a money pit. In other words, the model is only part of the story. The real value depends on: - Engine hours and service history - Tube condition - Hull integrity - Electrical system health - Evidence of repairs or collisions - Trailer condition, if included If those areas check out, the boat may still offer a lot of life and enjoyment. - How to Inspect the Hull and Tubes Like a Pro When checking a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, start with the hull and tubes. These are the core of the boat’s safety and performance. - Hull inspection Look for: - Cracks, chips, or repairs in the gelcoat - Signs of impact damage under the keel or bow - Softness or flex in the deck - Waterline staining that may suggest long-term storage issues - Uneven wear around lifting points or trailer contact areas A hull that looks a bit worn is not automatically a deal-breaker. But structural issues, or signs of previous grounding, should be taken seriously. - Tube inspection The tubes deserve just as much attention. Check for: - Slow leaks - Patch repairs - Faded or chalky material - Separation at seams - Damage around handles, rub rails, and attachment points - Uneven inflation between chambers A practical tip: inspect the tubes in good daylight and, if possible, when they are fully inflated. Press gently along the surface and listen for hissing. Any visible patchwork isn’t necessarily bad, but multiple repairs in one area can be a sign of repeated damage. If the boat uses hypalon tubes, they may age better than some alternatives, but they still need proper care. UV exposure is one of the biggest enemies of any inflatable tube. - Engine Condition Matters More Than Cosmetic Extras For most buyers, the engine is where the biggest financial risk sits. A tidy boat with a weak maintenance record can quickly become expensive. When evaluating the 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, ask: - What engine is fitted? - How many hours has it run? - Has it been serviced annually? - Are there records for impeller changes, oil changes, and gear oil replacement? - Has it ever overheated? - Are there signs of rough starting, smoke, or vibration? A strong service history is worth a lot. Even a modest engine can be a better buy than a newer-looking one with no paperwork. Watch for these warning signs: - Hard starting when cold - Water in the fuel system - Unusual knocking or rattling - Excessive smoke - Weak acceleration - Corrosion around the prop, lower unit, or mounting bolts If possible, insist on a sea trial. A boat can look fine at the dock and still reveal problems once it’s under load. - Electrical and Electronics: Small Issues, Big Annoyance Electrical problems are common on older boats, and they often begin small. On a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, check: - Battery age and condition - Wiring quality and corrosion - Navigation lights - Bilge pump operation - Switch panel labels and function - Chartplotter, VHF, and gauges if fitted Saltwater and poor sealing can cause trouble over time. Corroded terminals, loose connections, and water intrusion are all common on boats of this age. A useful rule: if the wiring looks like a later add-on or “DIY special,” budget time and money for cleanup. Good electrical work should look neat, protected, and easy to trace. Even if everything currently works, ask yourself whether it’s been installed in a way that will continue to work next season. - Trailer, Storage, and Transport: Often Overlooked, Always Important If your 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB comes with a trailer, don’t treat it as an afterthought. A poor trailer can ruin an otherwise good boating experience. Check: - Wheel bearings - Lights - Brakes, if fitted - Winch and bow stop - Tire age and tread - Frame corrosion - Roller and bunk alignment A trailer that’s used in saltwater needs extra attention. Rust around the axle, springs, or coupling can become a serious issue. Storage matters too. Boats stored outdoors without proper covers tend to age faster. UV, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles all take their toll on tubes, upholstery, and fittings. If you’re buying the boat, ask where it has been stored and how often it was used. A lightly used boat that sat uncovered outside may actually need more work than one that saw regular use and care. - Common Problems and Practical Fixes Here’s where many owners can save themselves trouble. Most issues on a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB are manageable if caught early. - Tube leaks Small leaks are often repairable, especially if the damage is localized. The key is to identify whether the leak is from a valve, seam, or puncture. Practical fix: - Test chamber by chamber - Use soapy water to locate leaks - Repair valves or patch punctures promptly - Replace badly aged sections if needed - Corrosion on fittings Stainless fittings can still corrode, especially in saltwater. Practical fix: - Remove, clean, and reseal fittings if corrosion is minor - Replace heavily pitted fasteners - Use marine-grade sealants and hardware - Soft deck spots These may indicate water intrusion or structural fatigue. Practical fix: - Inspect from below if possible - Determine whether the issue is localized or widespread - Repair minor core damage early before it spreads - Engine servicing gaps Even if the engine runs fine, skipped maintenance can shorten its life. Practical fix: - Catch up on service immediately - Replace fluids, filters, plugs, and impeller as needed - Run diagnostics if the engine has modern electronics - Damaged upholstery or covers This is often more cosmetic than structural. Practical fix: - Replace covers before more weather damage occurs - Use UV protection on exposed surfaces - Store the boat covered when not in use - How to Decide If It’s the Right Boat for You The best way to judge a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB is to match the boat to your actual use. Ask yourself: - Will you use it mostly in calm water or mixed conditions? - Do you need easy trailering? - Is family comfort important? - Will you fish, cruise, or use it for short coastal runs? - Are you comfortable with regular maintenance? If you want a practical, stable, mid-sized RIB and you’re prepared to inspect it properly, this model can make a lot of sense. It’s especially appealing if: - The engine has full service records - The tubes are in good condition - The hull shows only normal wear - The trailer is roadworthy - The boat has been stored well If several of those boxes are unchecked, you may still buy it, but only if the price reflects the work ahead. - Maintenance Tips to Keep It in Good Shape Once you own a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, good habits matter more than expensive upgrades. Here are the basics: 1. Rinse thoroughly after each saltwater use 2. Wash tubes with a gentle marine cleaner 3. Flush the engine after every trip 4. Check tube pressure regularly 5. Inspect fittings and fasteners monthly 6. Keep the battery charged 7. Cover the boat when not in use 8. Service the engine on schedule 9. Grease moving parts as recommended 10. Address small damage before it spreads These are simple steps, but they make a huge difference in how long the boat stays reliable and presentable. A boat that gets regular attention usually stays cheaper to own in the long run than one that only gets looked at when something breaks. - What a Smart Buyer Should Ask Before Making an Offer Before committing to a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB, ask the seller a few direct questions. Useful questions include: - How long have you owned it? - Where was it stored? - Has it been used in saltwater or freshwater? - When was the last engine service? - Have the tubes ever been repaired? - Has it had any accidents or groundings? - Are there service receipts and manuals? - Is the trailer included, and what condition is it in? The answers matter almost as much as the boat itself. Clear, consistent answers usually signal a better-maintained boat. Vague or defensive answers are worth a closer look. If the seller can provide: - Service records - Recent photos - Proof of winterization or storage - Engine hours documentation that’s a strong sign the boat has been looked after properly. - Why a Survey or Professional Inspection Is Worth It Even experienced boaters can miss things. That’s why a survey or pre-purchase inspection is often a smart move, especially on a boat like the 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB. A professional can spot: - Hidden moisture issues - Structural damage - Poor repairs - Electrical faults - Engine concerns that aren’t obvious at idle The cost of an inspection is usually much lower than the cost of fixing a missed problem after purchase. If you’re serious about the boat, this is one of the best ways to reduce risk. Think of it as buying peace of mind, not just paperwork. - Final Thoughts on Getting the Most from a 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB The 2014 Askeladden P65 RIB can still be a very practical and enjoyable boat, but the real value depends on condition, not just age or appearance. The biggest challenge for buyers is spotting the difference between normal wear and costly hidden problems. Once you know where to look, though, that becomes much easier. Focus on the hull, tubes, engine, electrics, and trailer. Ask for records, inspect carefully, and don’t skip the sea trial or survey if you’re buying. With the right checks and a bit of ongoing maintenance, this kind of RIB can remain a dependable, versatile boat for years. If you’re still researching, take your time and compare examples carefully. A well-kept boat will usually reward patience.