Originally posted by HHSA:
[B]P.S. Owning a J boat is a bit more work but an ounce of prevention saves thousands of dollars of cure. They are great boats but need a little extra TLC. However, that TLC is rewarded with awesome performance good cruising and great sailing at a very affordable price.
I am currently in negociations on a J/30. The boat is a 1979 model. The price has been agreed to and the sea trial, survey and mechanical inspections are pending. I am a littel nervous buying an older boat but it is a great opportunity to get a fast 30 ft racer/cruiser that the whole family will enjoy.
Could you please outline some of the preventative measures you allude to above?
This boat is near the top of my price range so I will not be able to afford any significant fiberglass work (not right away at least). So the questions begs... how wet is too wet?
I have been reading the forums here over the last week or two and I have a hitlist of problem areas for the suveyor to pay particular attention to. Does anyone have anything they think I should add to the list?
1) Check for impending failure at lower spreader - look for loose rivets.
2) Check for moisture/rot all over but especially in the following places: stanchions, chainplates, exhaust, rudder.
3) Check for cracking at engine mounts.
4) Check for cracking near the floor at the mast step.
5) Check rudder pintles and gudgeons for potential failure.
6) Check main sheet traveller for failure.
