2007 Tartan 3400 -- Considering Purchase

gms · #1 (**permalink**) 01-31-2010

I've read a bit about the epoxy hull problems, poor warranty service, etc. in this forum and it gives one pause. That said, I am looking at a 2007 3400 and am wondering if Tartan had figured out the epoxy issue by 2007 or if there is the possibility of cracked, checking etc. If the boat is inspected externally and looks fine, what kind of assumptions can be made? In other words, if problems haven't arisen yet, am I in the clear or would I still be waiting for the other shoe to drop, so to speak? (Wrong metaphor) Also, what other issues are common and should be looked at? Someone mentioned a rudder shaft bearing?

Anyone know how much it would cost to add a windlass to a 3400? What about radar/chart plotter? And a bimini?

Anyone own this boat and have an overall opinion for me? Know the PHRF rating?

Thanks!

Garry

Cruisingdad · #2 (**permalink**) 02-01-2010

I do not believe that there is a place/site I could send you to where a fair discussion and resolution of your concerns could be addressed.

- CD

fiberglass1 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-01-2010

GMS,
When considering any boat, it is often wise to search the internet for "pending law suits" or "pending legal action". In your case, this should be most enlightening.

JimsCAL · #4 (**permalink**) 02-01-2010

The Tartan 3400 rates 102. Pretty quick.

I looked at a 3500 this summer and liked it. It however was not an epoxy hull. I believe the issues with the epoxy hulls were on the larger boats where the hull was built in two sections and joined. Not sure if the 3400 hull is one piece or two. I'd check with Tartan.

monteh · #5 (**permalink**) 02-08-2010

I owned hull #19 ('06) and loved the boat. Never had a problem with the company following up on my warranty claims. If the boat/hull passes survey, feel confident there are no structural issues. With epoxy infusion, sometimes the resin doesn't fill all the cloth and you get dry spots. Easy to find with hammer tapping. Also very fixable. Jboats too are known for this.

I also added my own windlass. Purchased the unit from the store and hired someone to help me at $50 an hour to install it. It took us around 4hrs and I learned along the way.

Good luck with the boat purchase. And be sure to get a dingy with it, just in case it sinks. (just kidding)