[C320-list] Post 2004 320 inspection

[warren updike]

Brad, by now I presume you will think a survey necessary. This year, I could
not even change my insurance because the new company wanted the survey. The
survey cost would have consumed the savings for the first two years. 

Bear in mind that most marine surveyors do a hull and rigging inspection.
That will include most onboard systems; but, will often exclude the engine.
They may start the engine and do a general inspection; but, they will not do
compression testing or other internal inspection.  If the engine has less
than 1,000 hours, starts easily, runs well without smoke there is likely not
a problem. If pushing 2,000 hrs, you might consider having and engine guy
check it out, adjust the valves, check alternator, check injectors, etc.

Good luck,
Warren

-----Original Message-----
From: Brad Kuether [mailto:bkuether at comcast.net] 
Sent: Saturday, May 16, 2009 11:40 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Post 2004 320 inspection

Hello everyone,

I just got back from Chicago, after having taken a look at very nice 2004
320.

As far as the overall design, layout, systems, and amenities, I was very
impressed with the 320...  Would I like a little bigger head and more
storage, sure but every boat is a compromise.  If they sail as well as
everyone says, well I can see why everyone seems to really like this boat.
Its practical and smart.

Here are my questions to the group.....

Stern had two areas were I had a bit of concern.

  a.. Where the hull met the stern there were gelcoat cracks along what
would be the joint.  This was conveyed to me as "normal" given the way it
was built.  Is this true?
  b.. Also on the stern, on the vertical part below the scoop an area
between the two "vents" had some gelcoat crazing.  Is this normal?
Owner removed the galley "storage area" aft of the icebox/fridge.  Anyone
know how deep that is?  Think it was removed for storage considerations as
all the "stuff" was in the locker.

Owner installed an anchor washdown that was run from the waste through hull.
Basically using the through hull for overboard discharge as a way to pick up
seawater for anchor wash.  Anyone else have or know of this modification?

Final question, and its theoretical and something I would likely not do but
I have to ask the current owners...
But said that the boat has been in production for so long , that a survey
may not really be necessary.  Would any of you take the boat just based on a
visual knowing what you know about the boat now?

Thanks and look forward to discourse on any of the questions above......

-Brad, Mary, Monica, and Jarod
"Scholar"
C&C 29 Mark II
Middle River, MD