Prepurchase advice 1988 Beneteau 432

[CHM]

I have a survey scheduled in a couple of weeks. This is an ex charter with the engine replaced in 2002. I am having a hard time finding real world experience with this particular model. Where are the weaknesses and pitfalls? Listed as the Beneteau Moorings at Merritt Island on Yachtworld. Thanks!

 

[Gunni]

I'm guessing that this is charter modified version of the Beneteau 430. So look at the 430 for additional concerns. The 430 was the early model Oceanis and had the grid-liner and bolted keel that the latest boats have. Made in France. Look for indications of groundings, integrity of the keel-hull connection, rudder, and the million-and-one things that inexperienced charterers can to do to a boat that they don't own. Unless someone has already done so, you can expect it to be a project boat.

 

[CHM]

Thanks. I appreciate your post. Thankfully, the boat been out of charter for a while and many areas have been refit or repaired. I will have more answers after the survey on the 19th, but am concerned about thru-hulls, plumbing, and electrical systems mostly as well as evidence of water ingress. The bottom was just done which included a new prop shaft and cutlass bearing (bent on haul-out, by report). There are also ports being replaced before then due to crazing and cracks. It all sounds good and I will post after survey and sea trials.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Try this: http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=102541

 

[CHM]

Just got back in town from the marine survey. Here are the major issues: keel bolts need to be replaced, windlass is inoperable for unknown reason, port lights need to be overhauled or replaced, water ingress in salon with some rot likely from fixed sidelight. Hatches need new lexan or also need overhaul. Lastly, most of the thru hulls need to be replaced and ball valves installed. Additionally, water tanks need to be cleaned/flushed, one head needs new mirror. I am on the fence whether or not to proceed with purchase. The good things include: gelcoat is in good condition with no signs of delamination, autopilot works well, engine seems to be in good condition with new prop shaft and cutlass bearing. New commode in forward head. New air conditioner, wind gen, bottom job, paint. Sails are in reasonable shape. Dinghy and small outboard in good condition. I do not have the marine survey report. I am interested in how much money I will need to spend to repair these issues and overall opinions about this purchase. The asking price is $59000. Thanks!

 

[CHM]

Well, it's been about 2.5 weeks and after much discussion, research, and anxiety, I have taken the plunge and purchased this boat. The previous owner has agreed to deal with most of the issues noted from the survey, and I will be overhauling/replacing the ports/hatches soon. Over the next few months, I will have a marine electrician inspect the electrical system more closely and do a few small things. I will also be in the market for a chartplotter - preferably one which will integrate with the Raymarine 6000 autopilot. I also plan to replace the faucets in the heads and see if I can get the windlass working. Overall, I feel like the boat was a decent value, and I look forward to spending time sailing her.