Marlow Hunter 31 Tilt Steering Pedestal

StephenD

StephenD

.
Nov 24, 2015
84
Hunter 27 Middle River
I'm considering buying a beautiful 2015 MH31, but noticed the wheel's tilt pedestal has a lot of play, at least when tilted to either side. I can't remember for sure but I think it felt pretty solid when pinned vertically. Is that normal? If no can it be remedied?
And as an aside it seemed sitting on the skinny top edge of the fold down transom wasn't too comfortable- nor safe as the part is only held in place by a small line led through a jam cleat. I absolutely loved the front 29 ft of the vessel, not sure about the helm station. I would love to know what current owners think. (Maybe a drop on seat bench for the driver and some hardware to positively lock the transom in place?)
It could be I'm coming from a H27 where I can sit behind the wheel, and I just need to adjust.
 
Juice6576

Juice6576

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May 10, 2004
254
Hunter MH 37 Manitowoc, WI
I can't speak for the tilt pedestal, but the MH-37 has the same transom arrangement as the MH-31. We've had our boat for 6 years now, and to be honest, I rarely sit behind the wheel. The transom doesn't move as it actually pivots over center, so a lot of weight is hiding it in place. I have sat there on occasion, but it isn't the most comfortable. Usually I sit on the high side near the loaded jib winch. We do use our autopilot a lot, so being stuck there doesn't become a necessity.
 
StephenD

StephenD

.
Nov 24, 2015
84
Hunter 27 Middle River
Thanks. I'm going to sit in the cockpit at dock tomorrow and see how it feels. I should have done it when I was there before. It's like the whole boat was designed around what's a spectacular cabin, and the helm was an afterthought that feels a bit contrived.
By the way the 37 is a gorgeous boat.
Congratulations.
 
Juice6576

Juice6576

.
May 10, 2004
254
Hunter MH 37 Manitowoc, WI
In the cabin, look real close at the laminate under the side decks for moisture damage. We had cabin window leak issues. It took several tries till it finally got fixed, but we did have to replace the laminate under the side decks. Also, can't remember if the 31 has the shore power locker in the transom. If it does look at the access to it and make sure you are comfortable with the setup. It's not my favorite, but I can live with it.
 
StephenD

StephenD

.
Nov 24, 2015
84
Hunter 27 Middle River
Going in the morning. I'll have your ad b ice in mind. Thank you.
 
StephenD

StephenD

.
Nov 24, 2015
84
Hunter 27 Middle River
Sorry, advice is what I meant. If yours came with Doyle sails are you happy with them? I ask because all the MH31 sales photos show along of puckering, and you'd think they'd choose the best pictures so I wonder. Maybe a loft could fine tune them a bit...
 
StephenD

StephenD

.
Nov 24, 2015
84
Hunter 27 Middle River
a LOT of puckering. Probably need new glasses more than a new boat. LOL
 
Juice6576

Juice6576

.
May 10, 2004
254
Hunter MH 37 Manitowoc, WI
StephenD said:
Sorry, advice is what I meant. If yours came with Doyle sails are you happy with them? I ask because all the MH31 sales photos show along of puckering, and you'd think they'd choose the best pictures so I wonder. Maybe a loft could fine tune them a bit...
Click to expand
Haven't had a big issue with sails. I have a US Spars Mast furler, which is a little different than the Selden units. The Doyle sails have held up well.
 
StephenD

StephenD

.
Nov 24, 2015
84
Hunter 27 Middle River
Thank you. I'm opting out of the 31. The helmsman's ergonomics just seem odd to me.
But probably the cabin is what brings orders at the boat show, my priorities are just 180 degrees. apart. I live in the cockpit.
Still it's a beautiful boat, and I'm also sad I didn't pull the trigger. I probably could have gotten used to it. I probably charter one for a week before committing that much loot.
 
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