1978 C & L 45' Explorer 45 - looking for data specifically the deck build

[Prestonrockstar]

Hi all,

I am looking at buying a 1978 C & L 45' Explorer 45 but can't seem to find any substantial data on it, besides the basics on sailboatdata.com. The boat I'm looking at has teak decks that are lifting, and the seller says the teak is just surface and below is a fiberglass deck, so the teak being in back condition hasn't affected the deck. I've heard horror stories of leaking teak water getting into the core and boom the entire deck is rotted and needs to be replaced. I'm trying to find data on the deck build so I can research myself on the deck and whether the teak would allow water into a core, or if there is no core, etc etc. If anyone has any information I sure would be grateful.

Thanks,

Preston

 

[dlochner]

Teak decks are generally installed in one of two ways. They are either glued down to the underlying fiberglass deck or they are screwed down.

If they are screwed down there will be visible bungs in the decking. Look for rows of round bungs. If the builder was meticulous the grain pattern of the bung will match the teak grain making them harder to see.

Screwed down teak decks can be problematic because there are thousands of screws holding the deck down. If the bungs remain intact and the seams have been maintained and resealed this may not be a problem. However, on a 45 year old boat I would be surprised if there were no leaks and no water intrusion into the deck core.

Unfortunately, unlike a fiberglass deck, there is no easy way to check for moisture in the core. It may be possible to access the deck from below to check moisture readings if there are enough exposed areas.

Teak decks look great when they are maintained, however maintaining and replacing them is quite an undertaking.

 

[Rick D]

On facebook, look up Wayne Warrington. He has had one since new and may be able to help with your question via Messenger.