New to Hunter 23- Any advice on supply retailers?

[Monoceros2]

All-

We just picked up our 1985 Hunter 23 yesterday. While we have previously only owned 1 other sailboat (A Sovereign 19), we are excited to get underway with a bit bigger boat. After checking many of the prominent brands, we elected to go with Hunter, and got what we feel is a good deal on a boat requiring just a bit of straightening out prior to putting in the water this spring.
First things first, I was looking for suggestions on parts warehouses or suppliers which folks have had success with? I need to give the boat a good scrubbing, polish the gel coat, and replace a couple of lines. Our local marina I used to use has gone out of business, so looks like I will be mail ordering many of the items needed. Any suggestions?


Thank you for your time-

Monoceros

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

First things first, I was looking for suggestions on parts warehouses or suppliers which folks have had success with? ?

The SBO store here is the official Marlow Hunter parts suppler.

Otherwise, stay away from marine supply stores like Waste Marine wherever possible i.e. automotive stores for engine hoses, belts, filters, oil; plastic suppliers for fiberglass materials and Starboard; lumber stores for stock teak; big box stores for adhesives, faucets. RV suppliers can also be another supply of similar products ........... lighting.

Be sure you know your products well before you buy and you'll save big bucks on the same name brand products.

 

[MrUnix]

What Ralph said.. as soon as you put 'marine' in the name (of the store or the part you are looking for), the price jumps up 200% from what you will pay from other sources

Cheers,
Brad

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

For specific parts for your boat, SBO or this site's store is a good source for parts and materials. If they do not have it, they will let you know. They know the boats.

If you cannot find supplies, then you may have to go to the marine stores but look at alternative sites like Ralph said. A good example, I use to buy stainless in bulk from Fastenal. However, never say never at marine retail.

There is another concern as to why stick with this sites store but will keep that to myself.

 

[twodzusfittings]

I am not in agreement with Johnstone and Unixand maybe they have not had success with many of the leading stores like Defender, Hamilton, West Marine and others, however, I get good information on products, what, how and when to use. Yes, maybe you pay a little more for similar product, but at the big box stores there's no one to really help you.
When it comes to Electronics, the best person to ask at a West Marine Store is the manager. At my local WM, the manager has a wealth of knowledge. And when you mess up, you can call and he'll walk you through it. Try getting that at your Auto and Home Depot Stores.
Its also seasonal and just like the tourist trade, in order to make it through the year, you have to set pricing to cover the year.
Brick and Mortar stores have employees too, trying to make a living and are open all year round. Its a little circle of life. I agree with previous statements made that not all employees are technically savvy. Think about it, everyone starts somewhere, just like you with your new boat. Congratulations and enjoy.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

twoduzfittings;

Good response. Many stores like West Marine do have experienced folks. I have always told everyone, it is not just price alone but I look for the service and experience as well and will pay extra for that. Just like in model trains, everyone who sells them does not have all the experience or knowledge either so I stick with those who do.

In some cases my quotes for bottom paint were a little higher but as one customer said to me, I used top quality paint plus it lasted twice as long as the past yard he had gone to. In time with me he saved money.

 

[carboman]

Crutch filed for marine stero needs and west marine brand speaker for 49.99 are a good deal

Iboats.com have competitive prices
I found a local salvage yard in my are called Dons Salvage. You can look them up and find a similar in your area
Defender.com has been decent
Pier supply is good as well

 

[twodzusfittings]

CPP bottom paint, two gallons for $139.99 at WM. This weekend only. March 19-22. Now that is a bargain. Inshore life vests, auto-manual inflation, two for $109.99. And lots more. Plus if you are a Gold member like I am, triple points which is 12% on every $250 I spend.
Now that's a good deal.

 

[Chris14830]

Hi, congrats on buying a good boat. For cabin lights I went LED from superbrightled.com, big current savings (less than 10% of original). See my album picture here:

http://forums.hunter.sailboatowners.com/picture.php?albumid=1534&pictureid=19022

I forget the size, just measure the old bulb in millimeters. I went with Warm White in the festoon shape. Very close to the original color and brightness.
-Chris
PS they only work in one direction, polarity sensitive.