Ericson 28 survey...your thoughts please.

[RobG]

Looked at an '87 E28 today. I did a complete survey sans the moisture meter because of weather. This boat is in good shape except for the bottom paint and cutlass bearing. I couldn't tell if the rudder has to be dropped to remove the shaft and/or the bearing can be replaced with the shaft in place since you couldn't score it to loosen it before removal.

The E28s are said to be "a bit tender". Please define that for me.

I was very impressed with the build quality I read about and witnessed. I like this boat and am a fan of a fractional rig as I currently sail one.

Oh...the mast needs some care and new paint. I would assume it is epoxy paint?

Thanks in advance.

Rob

[Faster]

Ericsons generally have a great reputation - several friends have or have had various models and they are all seem like pretty nice boats with satisfied owners.

A boat said to be "tender" is one that tends to heel easily (ie lean over in a lightish breeze) Some such boats heel easily initially but tend to 'firm up' as their ballast comes into play. Whether the E28 is, in fact, a 'tender' boat I couldn't say. A tender boat can be manageable, you simply need to reef a bit earlier perhaps than someone else.

A painted mast is most likely to be a two part paint, but not necessarily epoxy.. it could also be a Polyurethane.

Here's a link to some downloadable literature:

Links, Resources & Downloads - E28_Documents - EY.o Information Exchange

[Tanley]

Rob, check out this site for more detailed information and a very enthusiastic user base.


EY.o Information Exchange - Powered by vBulletin

[cio12]

Rob,

I own a 1988 Ericson 28 ft. I heard the same comment about the boat being a little tender. I just have not experienced it.

In 12-15 kts close hauled, the boat will heel to about 15-18 degrees and settle into a nice groove. At 20 kts, I am thinking about putting in the first reef, not because the rail is under water, but because the boat tracks and sails better at a 18 degree heel than a 25 degree of heel. At 30 kts, I have the second reef in.

The Ericson Exchange website mentioned in another post is a great source of information.

Be happy to answer any other questions. BTW: It is a great boat and fun to sail.

Bill

[RobG]

I've been down to the boat two more times and have a list of issues but nothing that would turm me away. I'm hoping to get some estimates for work I don't want to deal with. When I get those to use as deductions I'll be making an offer.
Thats a very nice accessment to hear Bill and thanks for the offer. I'm sure I'll have more questions.

Rob