Should I buy a Hunter 27?

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Jim Wasko

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Jun 3, 2004
21
- - New London
water problems

Generally with these 27's in the 79 erra, it appears that you can have leaks that previous owner/s just merely delt with rather than fixing them. I found out the hard way that the plastic thru-hull fitting for the sink in the head was cracked and everytime I was on a starboard tack, I would find the bilge full and rising with saltwater.. (10$ part) The electrical connections from the mast run thru the deck and I found that they didn't have rubber gaskets or caulk, hence my mast step problem which resulted in the rotting of the deck core in that specific area. (1.00$ part) The stuffing box was dripping about 20 drips a minute, with nothing running. (1 hour and 2 monkey wrenches fixed that) The portholes leaked when raining or washing and leaked the water into the setti storage area's, making for wet tater chips... luckily no rot there. (2 hours, cordless drill and a 10$ tube of caulk) The icebox.. The melting ice drips into the bilge.. (3$ valve and I just sponge the excess out, of course I don't have to worry about that anymore) All in all, these leaks have left the boat wet at all times for probably years and my cabin floor is starting to delaminate. But I'll fix that this coming winter. So looking back, for less than a 100$ and some manual labor, these problems would have never existed. Of course I wouldn't go through all of this trouble if I didn't fall in love with the boat. She doesn't mind the small craft advisories, the occasional squall, very stable and prdeictable. Sails great and I give the current new hunters a run a for their money if their under 35' and the only thing I can complain about is the previous owner/s maintenance habits. If you have any other questions, I'm sure everyone here will be more than happy to list any pitfalls or advantages and if you want, you can contact me at jimwasko@ampcast.com
 
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David11054

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Jun 2, 2004
425
- - Sandusky Harbor Marina, Lake Erie
Realistic Waterworks

Most of the older boats (of all makes as far as I know) have multiple minor leaks. The result is a little water in the bilge most of the time, and mostly no big deal. The standard is a dry bilge. And I'm convinced from discussions we have had that this is possible for the h27, and other Cherubini era boats. But for me, it's just not worth the effort. So every year I work the list of new and previous maintenance issues. Often a side effect is reduction of leaks. Right now, the next target for leaks is the cabin ports. But they are not on this year's list. In fact, I learned from a yard worker this spring that Lady Lillie had flood while in her stand! A burst cockpit drain filled the cabin and then froze about 8-10 years ago. He salvaged the boat, and did a fantastic restoration job. If he had not pointed out the remaining faint markings, I would never have seen them. So I assume the P.O. of the boat you are looking at let an issue get out of control. But the repair is straightforward, and preventing the leaks is mostly a series of small efforts that we are all involved in. Good Luck, David Lady Lillie
 
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mtc4180

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Jun 28, 2004
30
- - Pensacola
What a wonderful group of people.

I've probably said 'thank you' a lot in here in response to your stories, suggestions, experience, and just plain seamanship (no gender exclusion intended). As this will be my sixth sailboat, my time on the water has introduced me to a family of sailors who truly care, want to help, and just plain care. You here are no exception. When I boarded the H27 Swell Dancer, her energy met me with warmth one would expect from a young dog after hours of patiently waiting for me to arrive home after a day at work. That kind of welcome you could only get when the balance is right. This sailboat has that balance, from what I can see. I know. . . , check her out, make a logical decision, don’t get all emotional and cloud my judgment. But, after looking into a handful of boats, my eyes still come back to Dancer. David, you’re right - all the damage can be remedied. In defense of her current owner, we’ve all let some things slip at one time or another; I know I have. Though the repairs take time, violating the ‘fix or sail’ doctrine, we all know that anything’s possible if the energy is there. The tips, experience, recommendations, and suggestions offered to me on this site are so very helpful. I believe that those who know are those who have experienced. A great part of what you all have written about this vintage Hunter is the reliability, satiability, seaworthiness, perfect size, and most of all – good energy. What I like most of all is the friendly, sincere, caring sailing family you all represent collectively. Thank you for opening yourselves and welcomed my family. To all of you who took the time to help me out are gracious to spend a little time to assist another sailor – thank you (again). Michael
 
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Droopy

Sounds like a GREAT boat

.. When your in love it's the happyies time of the year!
 
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mtc4180

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Jun 28, 2004
30
- - Pensacola
Those checklists would be very helpful

if you'd be so kind. I'd appreciate the effort. Probably be a great deal of benefit. Email to me, please if you have a chance. Thanks. Michael
 
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mtc4180

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Jun 28, 2004
30
- - Pensacola
Sory, Bill from Carlyle, Il.

I forgot to mention the last response was to your post. Gras
 
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