[C320-list] Documentation number location

[Karl Mielenhausen]

Doug,

I am a vessel examiner for USCG vessel safety checks. We are taught to look
for the visible documentation number as you have described the regulation
below. Usually, we (I) don't get that hung up on the "block-type Arabic" or
3". An example (my boat) can be seen in this link...
http://www.catalina320.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20081116142212466
Note that I don't have the "No." preceding the numeral either... no room.

We do, however, recommend that the documentation number also be placed in a
less noticeable, even hidden, location. That might aid in identifying
and/or recovering the vessel should someone chose to grind out the HIN.

Frankly, with all the environmental and safety items we inspect for, we
tend to get a little lax on numerals. Just look at all the state
registration number violations (color, font, size, etc) that get overlooked
during vessel safety checks.

Karl


On Thu, May 23, 2013 at 12:38 PM, Doug Treff <doug at treff.us> wrote:

> All,
>
> I am the third owner of my 320. The first owner documented her. Second
> owner went with state registration. I went with documentation per my
> lender's requirements. I cannot find the numbers ANYWHERE inside the cabin
> or hull. Looking at my options to see where I want to place the numbers.
>
> The rule says: "The official number assigned to documented vessels,
> preceded of the abbreviation "NO." must be marked in block-type Arabic
> numerals at least three inches high on some clearly visible interior
> structural part of the hull. The number must be permanently affixed so that
> alteration, removal, or replacement would be obvious and cause some
> scarring or damage to the surrounding hull area."
>
> What I want to know is how many of you have opted for the "clearly
> visible" approach, as in out in plain sight. A lot of boats that I've been
> on have the numbers inside a locker or in the engine compartment.
>
> Where do all of you have your numbers?
>
> --
> Doug Treff
> #350 - September Song
> doug at treff.us
>
>
>