Picking up an O'Day 30 (1984)

[DallasODAY]

Hey -

New to sailing and this community. I am picking up an O'Day 30 (1984) this week. I know the head needs to be replaced. Any suggestions for replacement? Also, I am not very handy, so the least amount of work possible. My guess is that they don't make the head any more.

[DonScribner]

Dallas,

I can't help you there. My head comes out every time we stop. But welcome to the asylum. You've got a really nice boat there. The "not handy" thing is going to cost you though. Boats are so expensive to maintain that being able to X, Y or Z is always a good thing. But, there's lots of great folks here that have been doing this madness for a while so , like you've don, just ask.

If you can't get quite the right answer here, there's always Peggy, the Head Mistress, on Sailboatowners.com. I'm sure there's a joke to be made there, but she's a sweet girl and I'll steer clear for a change.

Fair Winds and inexpensive repairs,


Don

Biddeford, Maine

[DallasODAY]

Thanks -

I can probably manage this one, just didn't know the replacement head. Seller is giving me a brand new Port-o-pot as well (have three kids). She is in really good shape and have already sailed her - engine runs well, sails are probably a 7-8 on a scale of 1-10 and needs a bottom pain in the next year or two. Father had an Erickson 30 and now has a motor boat at the same marina so he will help.

Looking forward to chatting with all of you sailors.

[CalebD]

Dallas,
Welcome to sailnut.
I agree with Don Scribner that Peggy Hall "the Headmistress" is likely your most informed source for information.
Jabsco makes some of the least expensive heads. Groco makes some better and more expensive models.
Now might be the time to consider replacing your holding tank and a few hoses if they have any stink associated with them. The smell might not bother you but your wife and kids may be sensitive to it.
Not a really fun job but once it is done it should be good for quite a while.

What engine is in your O 30'?

[DallasODAY]

I don't know the name, but it is an inboard 18 hp according to the title. I am told that the head has not been used in years.

[DallasODAY]

Here is a pic of the current head

[LandLocked66c]

Originally Posted by DallasODAY

Also, I am not very handy, so the least amount of work

Do remember that you just purchased a BOAT!

Welcome aboard! Post more pics of the new Lady, the boat of course...

[DallasODAY]

Some pics of her

[jameswilson29]

Nice...and the boat looks pretty good, too!

[DallasODAY]

LOL - don't know which one will cost more.