new sailor-old boat

[cphtima]

New sailor looking at a 1980 Mariner 28. I like the more traditional looks, boat appears to be solid.
Welcome any and all experiences and opinions. I have heard that the cabin sole is prone to rot. This would be lake sailed
Thanks in advance
Tim

[BigRed56]

If you like it and you understand that every boat requires constant upkeep and yes even chasing rot through any boat beats the heck out of sitting on a dock wondering what sailing is like.If your really worried get a professional survey done to find the extent of the boats problems.Most first time sailors and boat owners become quick studies at repairs and I have always been just as pleased to work on my four sailboats almost as much as sailing them. My glass over plywood 1958 Glen marine design catamaran is a constant source of work but man what speed.Go for it and and you''ll either be a sailor for life or you can take up golf. Mike

[manley]

Im looking at purchasing a 52'' Irwin and had a survey done recently which shown signs of thru hull problems due to stray current. However, when surveyor tried to find stray current location he was not able to find any. Any suggestions or should I stay clear of the boat?

[mauricefrompolo]

Thru hull deterioration as well as anodes is a by product of having shore power connected to your boat "without" the use of a galvanic isolator. Normal routine is to replace any suspecious metal work below water at haul out time. The reason that the surveyor probably could not find a reason for the stray current is the fact that this is generated by any and all boats in close proximity to yours that are also connected to shore power. Salt water is a much better conductor of these stray currents than fresh water. Have him give that a go.