280 new owner

[Steve]

I have found an 1996 280 and want to put in an offer. What should I look out for on a used Hunter? Are there items that wear or need to be modified after a few years?I'd be most grateful for any comments.My plan is to move the boat to Vaal Dam - for those not familiar with the dam, it is vast (waterline of about 800km depending on water level) and offers great overnight cruising.Many thanks

 

[Bob Knott]

Great Boat

I owned a 96 H280 before trading up to a 99 H380. The 280's a great boat, sails well, though it's initially very tender and needs to be reeefed early. If you put in the first reef at about 14knots of true breeze and the second around 20knots you'll be fine. Hopefully the batteries and charger have already been upgraded as they were inadequate. The 18hp yanmar is a dream and will not cause you any problems as long as you provide clean fuel and air. All in all it's a great little sailboat. I sailed her in 30 knots with 6-8 foot swells and she handled it fine. Other than little warranty issues which were all eventually resolved the boat functioned without a problem for 2 1/2 years.Enjoy!Bob Knott99 H380

 

[Ed Fluss]

H280

I have a 280 for the last 4 years. Sailed bay and ocean for up to 2 weeks liveaboard. I added a full bimini, midboom sheeting, a sump pump for shower/cooler, dripless stuffing box, and a stereo/cd player. A wheel lock and/or autopilot is a great addition as well.If you would like to talk more email me at sailwriter@yahoo.com