Feedback RE: Pearson 390 CC Keel/Cbrd Sloop

[Boilermaker5175]

Would anyone with personal experience/knowledge of the Pearson 390 CC Keel/Cbrd Sloop (vintage 1972/1973) please share their insight, comments, opinions, advice, etc. (positive or negative) with me about this boat?

I'm thinking of purchasing a 1972 P390 for extended coastal/near-shore (eastern seaboard, ICW, Florida Keys, etc.) and off-shore (Bahamas, Caribbean, etc.) live-aboard cruising; the boat appears to be in pretty good condition (for a 42-year-old boat) and the current owner has recently done some refit work (e.g., new engine in 1990, new standing rigging in 2005, new awlgrip paint in 2012, etc.).

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration!

Peace and blessings,

Larry Buchman
Carol Stream (Chicago), IL
(630) 430-0355 (M)

 

[ed stack]

You should certainly have surveyed. Is it in the water now?

 

[Boilermaker5175]

I certainly would have the boat, standing rigging, engine, and sails surveyed/examined (including an analysis of the engine oil) and my purchase offer would be contingent on the results of the survey(s). The boat is in the water, and I have been on it with the broker; my understanding is that the current owner has been living aboard it, but I don't know how much/frequently he's been sailing it recently.

What else do you know about Pearson 390(s) that I should be particularly aware of (beyond the obvious fact that it's 42 years old)? Thanks!

 

[ed stack]

A good surveyor will tap the hull to report on hull shape, waterlogged spots, crazing, etc..,test all systems, including engine, electronics, pressured water, thru hulls, etc. Unless the mast is un-stepped, rigging assessment, especially upper tangs and terminals, will require going aloft.

You likely know this, so apologies if so, but a good ABYC surveyor will really go over everything and provide a very thorough report.

I would also recommend trying to get access to the thru deck chain plates so they can be inspected. Not sure about the 39, but they are hidden behind cabin bright work.

I might also ask the seller for engine log maintenance records. You can never be certain, but if well-maintained, likely to be good if you continue to.

Is she documented?

I might have more later, but I hope this helps some. Good luck!

Ed