hull strength question

[David Bradford]

I have a question for the collective wisdom of the board. I'm looking at a 1979 O'Day 28, and I noticed that the hull is not perfectly fair all along it's length. About mid-ships (on the port side, but I could not see the starboard side) there is an area were the hull "dips in" a little. Actually, it could be an area that is slightly proud - maybe a bulkhead is behind it - and only makes the surrounding area appear to dip in. I would say we're talking about 1/4" out of fair over about a 1'1/2 - 2 foot area. So, does this indicate the hull is not thick enough, or at least stiff enough? Or, is this the sort of thing you see on a 20+ year old boat, and I should not infer anything one way or the other? Otherwise, the boat seems like it's in fine shape, other than a couple of spots where the deck is soft - but those are literally only 4 inches or so in diameter.

 

[Mary]

Check to see if the dip is below the chain plate,

as it could be the shrouds have been over tightened for a long period of time. A survey by a reputable person should help you decide. Good luck. MB

 

[J.B. Dyer]

Another Look

This could also be a sloppy repair job on hull damage. Mary gave you some good advise. If you are serious about this boat, I would have a qualified surveyor give this boat the once over with particular attention to that area.A friend of mine's 30footer fell off of the stands in the marina last year causing a spot just like the one you described.

 

[MG]

another 28

My hull too isn't perfectly symetrical below the water line. The "undulations" smoothly transition and are but a few. My surveyor at the time I bought the boat assured me that when the boat was in the water the hull assumed a true shape and that I shouldn't worry unless hard lines appear at the dips. Also there is no cracking in the gel coat anywhere below the rub rail. Keep in mind that being on the hard stresses the hull differently than when she is in the water.