Looking at a 1980 C27 at a very good price. I had a quick look at it today and it didn't seem too bad, just dirty, but in pretty good shape. I'm going back tomorrow for a more detailed look. I never had an inboard before so I'm leary(scared). It has the 12 hp universal diesel. Engine access seems tight. Is this a good engine and is there access from the sides of the engine or only throught the front access panel? I tapped around the deck in many places and I didn't detect delamination and got a good crisp tapping sound except a couple points near a stanchion base plate. Are these decks cored with plywood for that year or balsa? I did not see many(a few)of the stress cracks in the deck so on initial observation it looks fairly sound. I have repaired coring on decks before so I know the process. Do many find that these boats have a lot of core damage, generally speaking? I know that's a tough question because it depends on the owners maintenance, but on average are generally sound or do they have lots of problems? Thanks for any advice you can offer.
Considering 1980 C27
- Thread starter Ajay73
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My 84 has access on 3 sides, albeit a little snug on the sides. Drop down the port storage locker and there is an access panel that slides off. From the starboard quarterberth there is also an access panel to get to fuel filter, bleed valves, etc. I would advise use a cordless screwdriver and remove entire access frame when working from that side, will give you much more room to work. You will also need to get in through there to adjust the stuffing box periodically, but is easy to do, you will need a couple monkey wrenches, one offset. Would save you time to go ahead an install a light back there, just a little LED battery powered will do, so you can keep hands free to work. Good luck and have fun
Hi
I own a Catalina 27 1977 hull number 2525. II have a plywood deck. I am lucky with my boat as it doesn't have any delamination. a few chips here and there but solid. Last year I resealed all the deck fittings, expecting a little epoxy re pare would be needed but behind every fitting was a solid deck.
This year I installed a compass and found the boat to be five quarter thick at that point. The fiberglass accounted for one inch and the rest was 1/4 inch plywood.
Hope this helps.
Lookout
I own a Catalina 27 1977 hull number 2525. II have a plywood deck. I am lucky with my boat as it doesn't have any delamination. a few chips here and there but solid. Last year I resealed all the deck fittings, expecting a little epoxy re pare would be needed but behind every fitting was a solid deck.
This year I installed a compass and found the boat to be five quarter thick at that point. The fiberglass accounted for one inch and the rest was 1/4 inch plywood.
Hope this helps.
Lookout
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