Purchasing an 86 Hunter 31

Status
Not open for further replies.
Sep 24, 2010
23
Hunter 31 RKYC
Hi there,

I am considering purchasing an 86 Hunter 31. The engine is a Yanmar Diesel and it's original to the boat. I am wondering if maybe anyone is aware of any issues that I should watch out for that may be particular to this boat.
 
Nov 8, 2009
537
Hunter 386LE San Fancisco
Diesel engine should last 10,000+ hr. In SF the annual engine hours is <50-100 hr. I purchased an 87 Hunter 31 last November. Engine is pretty strong. No issues but some components were pretty tired – sails, running rigging, lifelines, teak, rope clutches, canvas, radar, and boom vang (fortunately PO replaced the standing rigging and battery charger in 2008). I replaced the tired components, refinished exterior and interior wood, exterior fiberglass and canvas. The 18 hp water-cooled engine is strong and can last a long time unless abused. I change fluids annually and run engine weekly. Make sure the remaining components work – pressurized water, hot water, refrigeration, navigation, lights, auto pilot, wash-down system, ect.
 

Scott

.
Sep 24, 1997
242
Hunter 31_83-87 Middle River, Md
Get a survey!! Check the compression post, at that age find out if the mixing elbow was ever replaced. See if the nylon packing nut has been replaced. The 2gm20f is a fantastic engine, with proper maintenance it will never let you down.
We've had our boat for 21 years now and never any major problems. Its a great boat. Go to"owner reviews" on this site for lots of information.
 
Nov 26, 2006
381
Hunter 31 1987 Fly Creek Marina Fairhope,AL.
purchased a 87 31 abt 6 weeks ago or so and love the boat. definately get a survey prior to purchase . you will find the boat fast, roomy, and comfortable.


enjoy
 
Dec 2, 1999
15,184
Hunter Vision-36 Rio Vista, CA.
The engine is probably the least of your worries. The are really stong engines.

Read the owners reviews. The most prevelant problem is the compression post and possibly some moisture in the decks. If this is all good you should be good to go. We had ours from 1987 - 2007 and never had even a single blister. Very minor issues with a few leaks and the compression post (not cheap to repair).
 
Status
Not open for further replies.