Boat survey

[Woody Morison]

Yesterday I looked at a 1978 Catalina 25. I noticed the following and would appreciate an opinion.1. The very bottom portion of the mast support has the laminate peeling from it and I caould stick my pocket knife in the side of it at least 1/4".2.The cock pit floor is mushy the fiberglass is oxidiced and coverd with tiny cracks. Not long deep ones but more like a spider web. The ply wood undereath is soft, howevr the glass work under that "ceiling of aft double birth" appears to be flawless. The current owner sugested using "git-rot"to repair. I think this might be a temporaray solution that wiil cause bigger problems later.3. The back adjustable mainstay is missing it has been replace with a non adjustable cable connected directly to the starboard side. I have not found the parts to put it back orriginal. The boat seemed to favor sailing with the port side into the wind.4. The rudder has been damaged and is now lamminated between a 1/2 piece of alluminum on each side, Strong but not very sleek.

 

[Ed P.]

Pass it By

Although the defects you describe may be repairable, it is clear evidence that the current owner did little if any maintenance on the boat.There are just too many good, well-maintained boats around that you shouldn't have to settle for something less. Besides, there is always the likelihood that there may be other serious, but yet undiscovered problems that could cause you to regret buying this boat.Look for a boat that an owner took interest and pride in, and you'll be making the wiser investment in your time and money.Good Luck !

 

[Bill Holcomb]

Get A Marine Survey

Hey Woody,Don't buy that C25 without a qualified marine survey. There are just too many "obvious" defects. The few hundred dollars you'll spend on the survey may save you thousands in repair expenses..........it'll be the least expensive insurance you'll buy.Bill Holcomb - C25 Snickerdoodle #4839