Early 320 have a two-degree heel

[Bob]

The early 320s have a two-degree heel from moving the batteries from the original plans. They don’t sit on their water lines evenly when at the dock. They fixed it after about hull #400. I understand some owners put a few hundred pounds of lead on the starboard side to fix the problem. I don’t like adding that kind of weight unless it in the keel. I’ve owned several Catalina’s and have always been happy with them. I’m thinking about buying a early 320 but I’m concerned about this extra heel!! Has anyone had a problem with this two-degrees of heel when sailing or tacking etc?

 

[Alchemist]

Later C-320s still list to port.

The primary difference in weight distribution between early and later C-320s is that the recent ones have the batteries on the starboard side. That makes for a fairly long cable run from the battery to the DC distribution panel. Earlier C-320s had at least one (and I think both) batteries on the port side.Even after Catalina moved the batteries, C-320 still have a slight port list. I've never heard any adverse effect on the handling characteristics due to this character flaw.SteveAlchemist C-320 #909 (2002)

 

[Rick]

Rick

The early C34 had a similar issue. I sometimes try to balance the load with my starboard watertank, but the only time I really notice the list is when I look at her from the dock. She sails just fine...

 

[Big Windy]

C320

Don't let a slight list, or perceived, list keep you from a C320. They are great boats.

 

[Ron]

add my name to the "list"

I have two batteries on the starboard side and still get a slight list. Mine is a 1994 C320.