How old is too old

[bljones]

Charlize Theron is 37.



So is Russell Brand


the right question to ask is, "How neglected is too neglected?"
cc has the right idea- break the boat down into it's systems and evaluate each system.


Then gut-check yourself, and do an honest appraisal of your current skillset and your interest in short-term and long-term projects AND your current financial situation.
Then ask someone you trust to evaluate your skillset and attention span.
Then, refrain from yelling at them and/or hitting them.
See all those boats in the back of the boatyards and marinas going for a song?
Their owners didn't do this part. They overestimated their ability, funds and attention span and underestimated what the boat needed.

[Mity]

Good afternoon everyone. I have to agree with you, it is not the age mur rhe care provided. Last year i bought a 35 years old MacGregor Ventire 25. She was well maintained but need few fixes. Since my wife and I love doing manual work, we negociated a good price and took over this project. I would say find your boar, get her evaluated and evaluate how much time you want to spend fixing her to bring it to your needs and enjoy All this time learning your new boat!

[msmith10]

My boat's 35 years old now and in better shape than when I bought it 10 years ago. I, on the other hand, am also 10 years older and definitely not in better shape.

[Carl W]

Thanks for all the replies. I feel better. I agree that it is a combination of systems and each should be looked at. I will be sure to be there during the survey, hopefully all goes well if not there are others.
Carl

[TQA]

One plus for an older GRP boat is in those days the lay ups were often thicker. I have seen the plug that came out of bottom of a 77 CSY - it was 1 1/2 inches thick.

[SloopJonB]

Originally Posted by TQA

One plus for an older GRP boat is in those days the lay ups were often thicker. I have seen the plug that came out of bottom of a 77 CSY - it was 1 1/2 inches thick.

I daresay, in most cases they were a lot thicker than now. When I did the keel on my 1970 Columbia 43, the bottom in way of the keel bolts was 2" thick and that was from the bilge to the top of the recess the keel fit into - alongside that recess it was at least 2" thicker.

[sww914]

I'm 47 now and it feels like 50something will be too old.

[LinekinBayCD]

There is not much on a well made boat that can not be repaired or replaced. It's more a question of whether the cost of any repairs needed exceed the value of another boat.

[smallboatlover]

my boat was made in 1973 and neglegted for many years i trust it. Don't worry about age unleess its junk

[Far Side]

I concur with CCRider. Be there when the surveyor arrives. And if possible hear what the owner says about his experience with the boat. Keep known issues to yourself till the surveyor completes his task. Once he sends his report collaborate your findings. Even then the both of you will more than likely miss a few issues.
Old boats are fun but challenging, find a few good books on maintenance. Likely you will expand your knowledge base.