Need an expert's opinion

[hunter bum]

I just bought a 1985 hunter 34 that needs to be almost completely remodeled. I'm estimating to spend about $35k total on the boat along with a new motor, sails, mast, paint etc. Making the boat brand new inside and out. My question is if its worth it to invest that much money on this boat. Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[kloudie1]

She is a fine old boat ! Don't know what you paid for her?? the listed values for the boat are in the $20K - $30K range.. After "remodeling" it would certainly be an excellent boat to enjoy .. but you'll probably never recover your dollars; you will, however, have payback in a fine, seaworthy, great sailing boat ..

 

[heart of gold]

Project 34

I concur, I bought mine for 25kUS last year and she was a little tired. I've put about 12k into her in rebuilds and improvements. Take a good hard look at the mast step and support post as these are known to rot. Lots of info here on this forum. At times I wondered if this had been the right choice but in the end, she is fun to sail, fast and comfortable. I liked her lines right away but more than anything after looking at several boats(16 I think), this was the first one that the admiral looked in the companionway and commented,"now this is nice". The boat is reputed to be a "little tender" but over the past year I found through conversations that all boats in the coastal class are a little tender at about 18knots, so i wouldn't worry about that. I've also read articles that say the 34 doesn't point well. I'm always baffled by that one as I can sail close hauled to about 34 degrees doing 6 knots in 12-15 knots of wind with the 135 genny and full main! In fact several mates have commented on how well she does point. She turns on a dime and will give you a nickel in change. This comes in very handy in tight quarters, you should see my slip. Some other things that I like very much are the little Yanmar 3gmf(what a workhorse, cruise at 6+knots at 2500rpm), those big stainless keel bolts(I've seen lots of iron ones of this age and they are very rusty, kinda gives me a funny feeling), good storage in the lazerette, the alcohol stove/oven, the refrigeration, hot/cold water etc. You will find some things as you refit that will baffle you as to the construction quality (like the mild steel painted chain plates buried deep in the hull, keep them dry) some things just seemed unfinished, the electrical has some things to be desired, the plastic molded part that the binnacle compass sits on, it will probably be UV damaged. Anyway, it goes on and on. They should call them Project 34's but then all boats are or become if neglected at all. We've grown to love ours. Have fun and one thing for sure, if you need advice, this forum is amazing. The folks here are very knowledgeable and helpful. Cheers, Ian

 

[Benny]

If you intend to keep the boat for another 20 years it may be a good investment. If you anticipate you may be selling or trading within 10 years then I would stick with the current engine and sails just performing regular maintenance and repairs as needed. In todays market I could get a mid 80's h34 that could reasonably provide me another 10 years of service for around $25K.

 

[wufibugs]

I have to agree with Benny here. There is a marvelous example of an 86 Hunter 31 on my dock, turnkey as far as I know, with some good navigation, and possibly even the Bimini, hard vang, asking $19,500. While the 34 adds space in all the right places, you are looking at double the price and a long haul before she hits the water for an extra 3 feet . . . and 3 cyl motor. Don't know how things are where you are, but the difficult state of the economy has not caused marina's to reduce slip rents [though the probably did forego projected increases] with the result that many owners are being forced to "fire sale" their boats. Definately a buyer's market, and anyone with $40k to spend should end up with a very nice boat you can sail tomorrow.

 

[hunter bum]

Thank you everyone,I really appreciate the time and effort you gave to reply to my question. After a few days thinking about it, I finally started to remove all the old stuff from the boat straight to the green dumpster at the end of the pier.This project will take a few months to be finished,I will put up some pictures of my progress and for sure I will have many more questions for the experts.Thanks.

 

[Steve Dion]

Too many out there that are in good condition. I would find one that only needs minor improvements. There were a lot of these boats made and you should be able to find a nice one that is ready to sail.

The Yanmar engines in these boats should almost outlast the fiberglass, so I would not consider having to replace the engine. They no longer make the same model that was probably in this boat so you may spend as much as $12-15k for a total engine replacement.

 

[stephen Penny]

In San Francisco, CA a replacement 2GM20F with 2 cylinders was quoted to me 1 year ago to be $15,500. A 3 cylinder is probably more. That is the largest cost. Check the standing rigging and all the systems for functionality. Recommend pricing out all the replacement items before you proceed, and then decide. Frankly, I enjoy fixing up a “tired” sailboat bit not one that requires an expensive engine replacement unless you get it for a great buy. I just completed a 12 month upgrade of a 87 Hunter with new port lenses, canvas, sails, life lines, rope clutches, batteries, navigation/radar system, running rigging, safety equipment, etc. and was fortunate the remaining systems, windows, engine, transmission, shaft, prop, packing gland, hull throughs, wiring, etc. did not require replacement. However, these upgrades still added up to a few boat bucks.

 

[Dan Johnson]

Bum...

Claude, Ian, and Benny have said about all on the H34. You won't get back such a large investment as a full remodel, but you'll have one fine boat when you're done.

As I've posted previously, most any H34 problem has been encountered by more than one of us owners and the solution has been in some cases well documented as well. If you get stuck, just drop us a post.

 

[mark_swart]

I'd think long and hard about a "new" motor or mast unless the old ones have failed. The 3GM is a great engine and can be rebuilt and be as good as new for a fraction of a new one. As for the mast, what about just putting on new rigging? New sails are a good investment. Good luck with her!

 

[hunter bum]

Thanks Mark, after few weeks thinking and cleaning the boat, You are right! After having a hard time I realigned the prop-shaft with the engine and it stopped jumping, now it sounds good. Today I pulled out all the old floor it was really bad ,repainted the bilge and it is ready for the new 3/4 teak and holly which I will pick up tomorrow ,as far as the mast goes well it is the last on my list ,but I'm thinking of taking it down and just repainting it. What type of paint you thing is good for it?? Thanks for all for the replies..

 

[Alan]

Check with Fred Ficarra. He completely overhaul his '86 H34 and documented it in great detail on his website.
http://epitomesrebuild.com