How to determine the condition of a used fiberglass hull?

Question

I've been looking for a used boat for a while. I've recently come across one that seems like a good deal. The one issue with it is that it is old (1977)

With regard to the hull condition, what should I look for that would be a deal-breaker?

Answer 1

hull can be repaired..make sure there aren't any soft spots in the floor, and that old repairs aren't hiding any hole throughs....take your oldest clothes and climb under it and look on the trailer...never buy a boat you can't see in dry dock.....

Answer 2

If this is big money you want a professional survey. Before you spend that money do a couple of things. Looking at the hull from angle to create a "horizon." Walk along each side watching for abrupt changes in the line that will indicate dents, repairs, or other "stresses." Do an exam for blisters. If they are present break a few and see if things are ugly underneath. Finally, using a plastic headed hammer or the handle of a screwdriver, tap the hull, especially around any fittings. If the hull is sound you will get a "sharp" return sound. If moisture is present the return will be "dull." The general opinion is walk away from a hull problem.

You might also do a web search for info concerning the boat. Often there are owner's groups with forums and in a short time you can pick up a pattern on particular problems or join and ask. There are books, of course. Hulls are often not a problem with older boats as they were heavily glassed although blisters are not uncommon and can be treated. Later hulls were cored with a lightweight material sandwiched between layers of glass. If this is wet it is a large problem.

Answer 3

Don't write it off because it's old- sometimes, like with a fiberglass boat, that can be a good thing. I'm not sure if blisters were a problem back then, but check for them. There weren't too many cored hulls- avoid them like the plague unless you KNOW they're good. A solid glass hull can be professionally repaired as good and strong as new. Check for separated bulkheads, separated keel joint (keel bolts if you have them), hull to deck joint (don't want THAT leaking) deck condition (cored decks- jump around and see if they squish), and mast step area (compressed to the point of damage?). To be sure, you can have a survey performed (Your own surveyor- don't use theirs).