Ok. I've pretty much eliminated the Catalina '27. It's just too small inside.
I'm focused on the Hunter '30. Spoke with the current owner today; took a closer look, and after some extensive online research; have a few more questions.
What I found out: I spoke with the widow of the PO. She knew very little; but I found out there is a possible family connection, so there may be a little wiggle room making it easier for me to get into this boat.
The year is not known exactly, she thinks it's a 1976. From my research it is no earlier than 1976, no later than 1978.
Ran my hand along the shrouds, no fishhooks, etc. they feel solid. Deck hardware is firmly set, no apparent looseness; but they do not
look to have been re-bedded. (no ooze, etc.) If they were, it was an A+ job.
All of the instruments look to be original and in need of replacement.
There are two things that I question. The first is the keel joint. See the two pictures below:
I have seen a LOT of boats in my area marinas with this same apparent issue. Any insights?
The other is a less common issue from my observations; but I've read about it in a number of reviews of Hunters of this era. Apparently the hull "works" around where the shroud chainplates reside; and it "dimples" the hull a little bit.
On either side of the hull, right where the chainplate would be for the lower shroud; ther eis a slight deformation of the hull.
It is approximately round, about 12" across, and dimples in about 3/8" at the deepest.
Take a look:
When I was there the other day I only noticed it on the starboard side, and I thought it was the result of a crappy docking job. After seeing the issue on a couple of owner reviews I went back and found it at the same place on the port side.
It feels solid. I have not been able to get below to look it over yet. I got to "look" down below; man what a mess.
One review I read suggested possibly moving the chainplates to the outside of the hull; with proper backing plates; any opinions?
I know, there are a LOT of '30 boats out there; but I'm pretty sure I can get this one for 1/2 to 1/3 the $ of comparables. I'm sorely tempted to get it and make the best of it in any case, we'll see.
Thanks again for all of your help,
Fred