Is this common?

[KYODAY]

I purchased a 1978 Oday 23 several weeks ago and am almost finished removing all hardware topsides for inspection, epocy fill, redrill and rebedding. I have found no signs of rot in the cabin top and the wood around the bolt holes for the chainplates is as crisp and solid as a new piece of wood. When I bought it, the boat appeared to be well taken care of and now I am more and more confident that this is going to be a fine boat next year when I'm finished. Is it common to find no rot in the cabin top or to have a solid bulkhead after 32 years? By the way, I need an owners manual. I searched the forum archives, and kept seeing a reference to a "more fun" tab, but can't seem to find this tab. Any help would be appreciated.

Jerry

 

[hman]

In a word.......Yup. When I bought my 1978 23 5 yrs ago, it had been sitting in a salt water marina unused for several years, even so, the cabin roof and the chain plates were in great shape, there was no seepage at all, the bulkhead was like new. It was pretty musty and moldy below decks, but after a little elbow grease, new running and standing rigging a used sail or two, then prying the swing keel down and replacing the line, we were out on the water having fun. I've been impressed with the ability of this boat!

 

[kpgraci]

I concur. 37 year old ODay 22, slight soft spot on cabin top, and some manageable pox underneath - that's it. And this boat was partially submerged by Katrina. Solid boats.