Helms 27

marsaw92 · #1 (**permalink**) 04-07-2004

Is there anyone with knowledge of or experience with a Helms 27? I am considering purchasing a 1981 model w/hanked-on headsails, OMC saildrive, and tiller steering.

Jeff_H · #2 (**permalink**) 04-07-2004

Unless the boat is a near give away, the OMC saildrive should be the deal killer as you can no longer get many of the critical parts.

Respectfully,
Jeff

aflanigan · #3 (**permalink**) 04-08-2004

Join the Helms email list for your best bet to talk to Helms 27 owners. I know one mentioned retrofitting his boat with an OB since the OMC did not work; if you''re comfortable doing that kind of modification and the boat is otherwise what you want, it may not be the "deal killer" Jeff suggests.

Allen Flanigan

tomsmyth · #4 (**permalink**) 05-12-2004

I won a 1982 Helms. In the past 10 years of ownership, no porblems and sails well. Above average workmanship and well balanced.

Outboard version and considering your omc situation you might consider hanging an ob off the transom.

I have seen several 27''s and 30''s and they all looked pretty good for their age.

Good luck!