Inspecting a Catalina 30 for purchase

[kerryedwards]

I'm going to look at the boat next week. It's a MKII 1992. Standard rig. Wing keel. Can anyone tell me what potential problem areas I need to look at? I'll have a moisture meter and a tapping hammer. What locations typically get wet? I know to look at the mast compression block.

 

[jssailem]

What locations typically get wet?

All of the boat gets wet. I am guessing your concern is intrusion. Any where the skin is penetrated can get wet if improperly bedded.

• Hardware that screws down to the deck
• Chainplates
• The bow anchor area
• Winches
• Ports
• Through Hulls
• Rudder
• Damaged areas

are typical places to look

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

57 reviews by owners:

Catalina Owner Reviews

Catalina Owner Reviews

catalina.sailboatowners.com

 

[David in Sandusky]

Do your best, then buy contingent on a survey. It’s the standard deal, and it puts you in a good position to negotiate, or walk away if an expert finds something you missed.

 

[Project_Mayhem]

Here are some common issues with the MK1's. I'm not sure if these have been resolved in later years

• Catalina smile due to rotted wood in keel (resolved on MKII)
• Weak steering assembly
• Electrical issues at engine control panel
• Rotted mast step
• Rotted wood under compression post (check to make sure door to head is squared with "frame")