Need buying advice for H33

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M

Mike

Hi, I am very interested in buying an older H33. Any thoughts on what I should look for that's unique to the model? Thanks for any advice!
 
D

David Foster

Water, water...

Many boat maintenance problems are easily visible. The most common group that is hard to see are where the structure has lost the battle to keep out water: The mast step leads the list. Whether deck or keel stepped, the combination of a hole in the cabin roof (for the mast, or it's wiring) with the highest structural load on the boat result in decay of wood or metal pieces. The hatches and portlights are another source of water problems. Either they no longer seal when shut, or their mounting has deteriorated to let water into the roof and cabin. Deck mounted hardware, especially the lifeline stanchions are a source of water entry and rot. Visual signs include crazing or depressions of the structure surface. But really finding the issues depends on the key to buying any old boat - Find the best surveyor you can! Start now, and collect references to make sure the surveyor is competent and honest. It's normal to make the sale contingent on the survey. And a good surveyor will find the water issues described above, and any other issues with the boat. The result of the survey is always confidence in your purchase, and a good start on your maintenance list (we are still working on Lady Lillie's list after three years, and over 100 days on Lake Erie.) Usually a price adjustment to account for the defects noted more than pays for the surveyors fee. Rarely, the survey leads you to the conclusion you don't want the boat - and the justification for exercising your right to get out of the contract that should be included in the survey language in your contract. Finally, the archives. It is really worth learning how to search them, because this subject has been regularly discussed in a lot of detail. Don't confine yourself to the 33 only. The Cherubini designed Hunters of that period all share design details, and manufacturing processes. Although our surveyor did find issues, none of them kept us from sailing first, and maintaining as we went along. These are great boats, and the 33 is one of the best. David Lady Lillie '77 h27
 
D

David Foster

Water, water...

Many boat maintenance problems are easily visible. The most common group that is hard to see are where the structure has lost the battle to keep out water: The mast step leads the list. Whether deck or keel stepped, the combination of a hole in the cabin roof (for the mast, or it's wiring) with the highest structural load on the boat result in decay of wood or metal pieces. The hatches and portlights are another source of water problems. Either they no longer seal when shut, or their mounting has deteriorated to let water into the roof and cabin. Deck mounted hardware, especially the lifeline stanchions are a source of water entry and rot. Visual signs include crazing or depressions of the structure surface. But really finding the issues depends on the key to buying any old boat - Find the best surveyor you can! Start now, and collect references to make sure the surveyor is competent and honest. It's normal to make the sale contingent on the survey. And a good surveyor will find the water issues described above, and any other issues with the boat. The result of the survey is always confidence in your purchase, and a good start on your maintenance list (we are still working on Lady Lillie's list after three years, and over 100 days on Lake Erie.) Usually a price adjustment to account for the defects noted more than pays for the surveyors fee. Rarely, the survey leads you to the conclusion you don't want the boat - and the justification for exercising your right to get out of the contract that should be included in the survey language in your contract. Finally, the archives. It is really worth learning how to search them, because this subject has been regularly discussed in a lot of detail. Don't confine yourself to the 33 only. The Cherubini designed Hunters of that period all share design details, and manufacturing processes. Although our surveyor did find issues, none of them kept us from sailing first, and maintaining as we went along. These are great boats, and the 33 is one of the best. David Lady Lillie '77 h27
 
D

Don Bodemann

How old and where?

Mike, Contact me at sailbode@gis.net for an option.
 
L

Larry Cost

Hunter Problems

I have a 78 H30. She is a great boat. The previous posts give you a good idea of what to look for. This site has been invaluable to me since I purchased my boat. I am currently looking at an H37C, I like these boats so much. If you know anyone who would like a H30. Let me know.
 
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Tim Dalton

what to look for

My father bought a brand new H33 in 1981. Last year he decided that he was too old for the boat and shipped it up to me. In order to insure the boat, I needed a survey. Let me just add that during those 20 years, maintenance wasn't my dad's strong point. Here's what the survey revealed. The wiring was the orignial and it needed replacing. Coverings were cracked, shorts, gronds broken etc. Some through hull fittings were cracked and need replacing. I bought a new main. Still working with the original lapper. The surveyor noted some areas of soggy deck around the stanchion bases. Also and area in front of the companion way hatch. Headstay and bacckstay needed replacement and I wil get to the others this year. Oveall, I was back in the water in 5 weeks (just evenings and weekend work) but I'll repair the blisters and the deck this spring. Overall, the surveyor's report was very favorable. He found the boat structurally sound and safe. I thought that I would have much more work. I should add that we did replace some of the lenses on the opening ports. I will also replace all other trhough hulls this year as I noticed some very worn ones on hauling this fall. So far none of the work is terribly difficult--just messy at times. Regards, Tim Dalton
 
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