Help from h40 ('84-'89) past and present owners

[Bimmerpilot]

My wife and I are planning to purchase a h40 within the next 2-years for the purpose of living aboard, and eventually long-range cruising.

We've spent a LOT of time scouring the internet researching any and all information regarding the '84-'89 boats.

Though we have read all of the "Owner Reviews" on this site; what we would appreciate is information from actual "owners" (both past and present) regarding surveys associated with their boat, and experiences in what to "look out for" in the initial purchase, and long-term maintenance.

Thanks in advance,

Chad & Janet
San Diego, CA

Past boats:
AMF Sunfish
Hobie 16
San Juan 24
Nacra 5.2

Present Boat:
Catalina 30

 

[seadaddler]

Boat Info

Look for the 40 boat info here and check out owner reviews and plenty info about that boat,go top of page and under boat info and that size and year boat and you will see what 40 owners have done.
Nick

 

[tkwhalen]

Chad & Janet

The most common problem was with the integrated holding tanks which consistently leaked, if you look back through the archives you will find many discussions around the various approaches to solve the problem. I had an 85 Hunter 40 for many years and may be able to answer any specific questions or concerns that you have.

 

[Bimmerpilot]

Thanks Nick and Kevin,

I did manage to find quite a bit of information in the archives when I searched for "h40".

Aside from the issue with the holding tanks; there didn't appear to be too many gripes with the over-all construction of the boat.

I also didn't notice anyone mentioning any inherent problems with blisters (?).

I realize that depending on what recent work has been done (in the last few years), that buying a 30-year old boat; I'll be spending quite a bit labor and money to bring the boat up to pretty near new condition. I like the "look" of the model, the layout below decks, and the B&R rig.. the aft cabin is a big plus for us.

Thanks,

Chad & Janet