Hunter 40 advice needed

[Francis]

I am a new member, interested in a 1986 Hunter 40. Before I go visit her, I'd like to ask you what I absolutely need to check.
-I heard about keel corrosion, defective holding tanks vents... Is there anything else specific to this model that I should really pay attention to?
-She does not have an hour-meter, so besides compression tests and oil analysis, what can I do to estimate the life left in that 4 JHE?
-She is equiped with the original "Hyde Stream Stay" roll/furl. I will check the bearings, but how would you rate this system overall?
Thanks!

 

[Ed Schenck]

What I remember about my dockmates H40 is that it was huge! Hard to believe it was the next generation Hunter "big" boat after my H37C. It was big enough to have two heads with all the accompanying problems. Might be worth paying a Yanmar mechanic an hour's wages. My own 1979 Stream Stay is still furling an oversized yankee. You will have a much larger sail so bearings will be very important. The solid rod should be fine but certainly check the terminals on both ends. I don't worry too much with a keel-stepped mast and a mid-stay. But that thing is holding up the mast on an H40.

 

[td4321]

We have a '86 Hunter 40 and have had a great time with her. It does have an iron keel, but it has not been too hard to maintain. Just keep up with it every season.

I had to replace the streamstay furling this year. We went with a harken. I had a heck of a time getting this unit apart. When we finally did, I decided to replace it. Make sure you see how she furls back and forth. Check the bearings.

The aft holding tank has been a problem on these boats. It is just a void in the hull with a lid. We took up the floor to check ours out and it was in good shape. maybe in 86 they did a better job with this. Our odor was from the hoses.

The front head is just about to small for anything but we have elected to keep it as that for now. Others have done different things with this space.

We love the way the boat sails as well as motors. We enjoy her as well on long stays though we have never left the Chesapeake Bay.

Get a good survey and good luck.

 

[Francis]

Thanks a lot. Planning on seeing her on Thursday. Meanwhile, do not hesitate to post more comments.
Tony, is this the ChartHouse behind your boat?