Keel Bolt Stress Fractures

[Karen Gunderson]

I am thinking about purchasing a 1979 Catalina 30. The surveyor has told me to walk away from the boat due to coachtop stress fractures around the mast, excessives stress fractures around the keel bolts, and a very weak base to the keel compression post. Everything else about the boat is just what we want. Any input on the difficulty and expense of repairs would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Chuck Gassert]

Boat Issues

Karen,I would take the advice of the surveyor. Sounds like the problems mentioned are serious enough to jepordize the boat and occupants. The problems identified seemed to be stressed due to racing the boat and could be costly to repair in the long run. The two things you want in good shape are the mast and keel. There are plenty of Catalina 30's of the same age group on the market. I would recommend looking for another boat. 20 years of sailing tell me you will have problems with this boat. Good Hunting,Captain ChuckUSCG Licensed Master #1040231

 

[Augie Byllott]

Boat Issues

Having built nearly 7,000, that's right, 7,000 Catalina 30s from 1974, the company has seen it all and has developed "fixes" for all of the problems you list (and many more).Contact them directly and they'll gladly send you diagrams and instructions and, if necessary refer you to suppliers of any parts or fittings that may be necessary.Nothing you list has to be a deal breaker. Perhaps you can negotiate the repairs with the seller.The accompanying link has a contact section through which you can lay out your questions on an e-mail form.

 

[Tom Soko]

Give them a call...

I've been told that Catalina is VERY slow at returning email questions. It would be much faster to call them directly and talk with David Grass. If he can't give you the answers he can probably get you pointed in the right direction. Just my thoughts.