1983 S-2 10.3

wcstorm · #1 (**permalink**) 03-28-2002

Looking at a 1983 S-2, 10.3. Would appreciate any comments or concerns.
Cole

paulk · #2 (**permalink**) 03-28-2002

The S-2''s I''ve seem generally seem to be well put together: sensibly engineered and solid without going crazy about it. The gelcoats seem to stand up well compared to many other boats of the same vintage. Layouts and finishes below are sensible, matter of fact, and practical, rather than flashy. The 10.3 is supposed to be relatively fast, too. My understanding is that the original owner/creator of Slickcraft powerboats (which apparently have a very good reputation) sold the firm. Part of the deal was a five year non-compete clause that kept him from building powerboats, so he started a second firm -- thus S-2 --to build sailboats instead.

Jeff_H · #3 (**permalink**) 03-28-2002

I am not sure that I would agree that the S-2''s are sensibly engineered and solid. They generally were a cut above many of the larger value oriented production builders but they are notorious for a variety of poorly engineered detailing, such a the use of wood for keel framing members such as maststeps and engine beds which are both located in rot inducing areas of the bilge. The mast steps are especially vulnerable because of the water carried down in the mast. There is an issue with keel bolt accessibility on the 9.1 but which I would also suggest that you investigate on the larger 10.3. S-2''s are especially notorious for deck core rot especially in the area near the mast partners. Other problems that I have come across on S-2''s is somewhat shoddy electrical systems as well.

The 10.3 was and IOR racing rule derived design. I have raced against one for several seasons and they are reasonably fast upwind in a moderate breeze but seem to loose out at the extremes.

It is funny with the S-2''s. They seem to have a very divided reputation with some people seeing them as high quality boats and other seeing them a somewhat under par. My own experience put them somewhere in between and would suggest that you go in with a very thorough survey especially of structural elements.

Jeff