Used C-25 Points To Check
Chuck, I purchased a used Catalina 25 swing keel about a year ago. so far, the areas I'd recommend taking a close look at include (but are not limited to): 1.) Swing keel trunk. Especially the area that stops the keel in the full down position - look for impact damage from keel free fall. The junction between the trunk and the hull - check for poor layup or tabbing. The pivot support area of the hull bottom - look for hairline cracks, bent hangers, or other signs of stress damage. the inside of the trunk - look for signs that the boat sat in shallow water bumping on its raised keel with wave action. This can do subtle damage to the structural integrity of the hull near the aft end of the trunk. 2.) Blistering below the waterline. Most all used boats have it, so don't let it be an automatic deal killer. Just include the cost (and aggrevation) of repair in the negotiations. Be really, really sure that you understand what's involved in doing it right. It's not just a matter of popping the pimples and slapping on some Bondo. 3.) Rigging condition. Have an experienced rigger inspect the standing rigging for remaining life expectancy. Get estimates on any problems. 4.) Electrical system. Most production boats come with lame electrics. Some owners are better than others about maintaining and upgrading. Look for present or near future failures. Carefully evaluate quality of past repairs and upgrades. 5.) Engine. At least take a compression check. Better yet, take the motor to an authorized dealer for pre-purchase evaluation. If you don't think this is a serious matter, then price a new motor. 6.) Know what are the big ticket items, and what items are too trivial to sweat in an otherwise attractive deal. 7.) Get a professional pre-purchase survey done. Plan to pay several hundred dollars to have it done right. Be there with the surveyor. Ask questions. Expect a 10 to 20 page written report. Study it. I hope this helps. good luck! -- Leon sisson
