Refitting Hunter 40-1, need some advice...

[Canuck Sailorguy]

I purchased a 1987 Hunter 40 through a boatyard who owned it after the previous owner passed away and the family did not keep up the yard bills.
The boat has been sitting on the hard since 2017, and there are of course some issues. We’ve power washed and sanitized the boat inside and out and it is already a noticeable improvement in odor and appearance.
The teak and holly sole is in terrible condition. I’m simply going to recover it with a vinyl product and go with a different look.
I have the cushions, although the fabric is finished so I will have those recovered.
My main concern, because my current boat has an encapsulated keel,, is the keel bolts. Can anybody here describe the process of inspecting them, and what is acceptable in terms of the so-called Hunter smile?
Also, the icebox in the galley - is it actually insulated, and if so, how well? I’m considering installing a proper fridge freezer unit in it.
I’d be appreciative of any comments or suggestions anybody might have that would help me with this project.

 

[dmax]

Regarding the keel bolts, (on the hard) you want to locate all of them and take the nuts and washers/plates off, clean the bolts and look carefully for any corrosion. Make sure the sealant around the seals is in good shape. Put the nuts and washers back on and torque to factory specs (start from the middle bolts and work out). As far as the smile, a picture would help but if it on the smaller side (2 feet max): make sure your keel is stable and secure (i.e. doesn't move) - dig out as much of the keel-to-hull bedding as you can and refill with 3M 5200. Keel smiles are often caused by improper blocking when on the hard. If caused by a grounding, more inspection might be warranted.

And, that is quite a project you're taking on but it looks like it will be a nice boat when done. Cool dog.

 

[jssailem]

• the keel bolts.
• Can anybody here describe the process of inspecting them,
• and what is acceptable in terms of the so-called Hunter smile?

Also, the icebox in the galley - is it actually insulated, and if so, how well? I’m considering installing a proper fridge freezer unit in it.

It is great to have a crew member on the boat helping without judging.

@dmax described the process for the keel bolts. You may need to lift the boat to see any gaps or issues (movement) of the keel.

The images help to get an idea of the inside condition. If you seek clarity on the above questions providing images of what you see (i.e. Keel, keel stub, keel smile, keel bolts) would help to get useful responses. Look for cracking along the keel to hull joint. It is often adhered using 3m 5200, then smoothed and shaped with an epoxy filler, sanded to shape, then painted.