Synopses & Reviews
The tolerance of fiberglass for neglect and abuse is legendary--and an astounding number of sailboats built in the last 35 years are still around. There are bargains aplenty--and the best one of all, with some overdue attention, just might be the boat you already own. Are those cracks in the gelcoat? Should the deck yield underfoot like that? Are those rivets in the toerail, and why are they loose? Why doesn't the head door close? Should there be rust on the keel bolts? What is that bulge in the hull? If any of these indicate real trouble, it is or could become your trouble. Here is all you'll need to learn where to look and what to look for. Whether you're shopping or prioritizing maintenance tasks, this book will save you money and perhaps even disaster.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Surveying a Boat for Purchase
Determining the Needs of Your Own Boat
Hull
Fair and True?
Signs of Stress or Trauma
Delamination
Gelcoat Problems
Blisters
Moisture Content
Keel
Rudder
Cutless Bearings and Propeller
Through-Hull Fittings
Deck
Hull-to-Deck Joint
Surface Damage
Nonskid
Core Problems
Hatches
Portlights
Deck Hardware
Canvas
Rig
Mast and Boom
Step
Cap
Spreaders
Goosenecks, Sheets, and Vangs
Stays and Shrouds
Roller Furling
Sails
Interior
Bulkhead Attachment
Stringers and Floors
Interior Pans
Distortion
Signs of Leakage
Tankage
Head
Galley
Seacocks
Bilge Pumps
Comfort and Safety
Decor
Engine and Steering
Engine Access
Visual Clues
Mounting and Alignment
Stuffing Box
Exhaust Smoke
Running the Engine
Oil
Steering Gear
Electrical System
Battery
Breaker Panel
Wire and Connectors
Alternator
Pumps and Motors
Lights
Electronics
Other Considerations
Design
Reputation
Performance
Accomodations
Equipment
Value
Boat-Buyer's 30-Minute Survey
Hull
Deck
Rig
Below
(and more...)