buying first boat - need advice

dub420sailor · #1 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

Hi Everyone,

This is my first post, so hopefully I put it in the right place. I am looking at buying my first boat, and I heard about a Lightning for sale in good condition hull, sails, and trailer, but no mast. Apparently current owner snapped it in a regatta. The boat is super cheap, but after looking around for awhile, I haven't been able to find a mast. I know people build these boats all the time, so I thought the masts would be readily available, but where and for how much?

Even if I find a mast, is $500 a good deal for the boat, sails, and trailer? I haven't seen it yet, but all I know is that it is older with fiberglass hull. Everything is of course hypothetical right now, but I want to see if it is a viable purchase assuming that the boat is in good condition.

Thanks,
Andy

QuickMick · #2 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

whats the old addage.... if something is too good to be true....
if you go look at it, its obviously not good fiscal policy to get a survey, but i would at least bring an experienced sailor with you to check it out.

good luck, have fun

sailingdog · #3 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

Well, it isn't a sail boat without the rigging and the mast. Of course, the trailer alone might be worth the $500...so it is worth taking a look at. If the boat is in good shape, then you're probably home free... good luck, but as Quickmick said, take an experienced sailor with you if you are friends with one.

QuickMick · #4 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

Sailingdog is onto something. when you inspect it, make note of the winches/deck hardware/etc. then check ebay for going prices. combined with the trailer you may be able to get the thing, with time/tool/sweat/and bloody knuckles part it out for a decent return on your outlay, and parlay that into a boat with mast intact.... just a thought

poltergeist · #5 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

Lightnings are nice boats. Keep in mind, though, that if he lost his mast, the po may well have done damage to the standing rigging at the same time, which could be a much bigger deal than simply replacing the mast.

Kurt

poltergeist · #6 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

Here's a link to Lightning parts. Don't know if Nickels is the only current builder ... poke around.

https://www.fpcmall.com/store/nickel...art/index.html

Kurt

dub420sailor · #7 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

Hi Guys,

Thanks for the great advice. I still haven't found the mast, but the rigging/shrouds look pretty pricey. After I go see it, I will post some pictures. If anyone sees a lightning mast for sale please let me know! It's doubtful that I will make this purchase, but it seems like one to keep my eye on since I found it through a reliable source (not Craigslist).

Thanks,
Andy

peikenberry · #8 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

You might want to check with the Lightning Class Association Welcome to the International Lightning Class They might have sources or know of used masts.

sailingdog · #9 (**permalink**) 03-29-2010

The OP didn't mention rigging of any sort, so I'm guessing the standing and running rigging need to be replaced.

Quote:

Originally Posted by poltergeist

Lightnings are nice boats. Keep in mind, though, that if he lost his mast, the po may well have done damage to the standing rigging at the same time, which could be a much bigger deal than simply replacing the mast.

Kurt

dub420sailor · #10 (**permalink**) 04-11-2010

Just talked to the owner, apparently the boat was just redone. Mast is still with it. I am bringing my friend that knows alot more than I do about boat buying to take a look soon. My main concern is the standing rigging. I guess I will find out soon. Anyone know how much that costs on a lightning?

I found new masts for $700 machined and unrigged at Nichols. Don't quote me, but I believe that was the price.

Thanks so much,
Andy