TDB 14 Classic

R

Randy Brown

New member
I’m considering buying a TDB 14 Classic duck boat. I know these boats have a long production history and lots of variations over the years.

  • Are there specific production years or versions that are generally considered better quality, more durable, or better built than others?
  • Have any particular manufacturers or builders (original factory vs later builders like Olsen Marine) or changes in materials/construction over the years resulted in notable improvements or known issues?
  • Are there common problem years or build details (e.g., transom strength, hull layup, grassing rail materials, blind system setup) that I should avoid or inspect carefully?
Looking for recommendations on what to watch for in older vs newer boats and what generally makes a used TDB 14 Classic a good vs risky buy.
 
Olsen doesn't build the classics. Stay with Maine built if you're looking at a 14' classic, check the transom for ANY signs of water penetration. Or if $ isn't a big issue save up and buy a 14' sea class, doesn't draft much more, way more stable, way more room, just harder to find
 
I don't own one, but have talked to a few people who have. The general consensus is issues with the motorboard. As @Michael Gardner said, check the transom. Often the motorboard will pull away from the transom and allow water to get in. I talked to two people with them who had to address that issue. It's more common in older models.
 
I own a 1987 Maine built with original transom and have always had a 25 HP 2 stroke on it
Have had since 1992 ish and cover the transom board after I remove the motor each year
Use marine silicone over transom bolt holes when motor is on and when removed in an attempt to keep water out
Have replaced old wood grass rails with synthetic and I replaced the bow eye
Still use original painted blind
Terrific boat
 
Very good buy very seaworthy boat and light enough to push off of the mud. My dad has an original Maine built one and after over 20 years of abuse, and I mean abuse he had to put a new floor and transom on it’ll last for my kids to use!
 
deff check hull for any deep scratches or any kind of patch wrk also look to see if anything was screwed into the floor .and if any of the bolts are loose holding grass rail on that are behind the shelf or rear compartments .. with no motor on boat it is easy to lift
 
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