Association Forum - 83 Catalina 25 Purchase

Assn Members Area · Join

Home.

Association Forum

Ships Store

Cruising

Racing

Technical Tips

Photo Gallery - New

Boat Search - Updated

Manuals & Brochures

Swap Meet

Links

Officer Flag Line & Staff

Bylaws & Constitution

Members Area

Join the Association

Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.

Association Forum

Username:	Password:
Save Password
Forgot your Password?

All Forums

Catalina/Capri 25/250 Sailor's Forums

Catalina 25 Specific Forum

83 Catalina 25 Purchase

New Topic

Topic Locked

Printer Friendly

Author

Topic

Page: of 2

GaryB
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
4304 Posts

Response Posted - 03/02/2014 : 21:58:46

I'd ask to see the title and other paperwork. Check with the state where it's registered and make sure the person selling it is the actual owner.

I had a situation when I was looking for a boat in which I went to look at an O'day 23 and was ready to buy. I called the state and ask them who the boat was registered to and it did not match the name of the person selling it. When I confronted the guy he said he had bought it from a "friend" and had just never gotten around to changing the title over to his name. I told him no thanks!

Edited by - on

Stinkpotter
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Djibouti
9081 Posts

Response Posted - 03/02/2014 : 22:55:36

Two things off the top of my head... A full new set of interior cushions will run you somewhere around $2K. And Mercury outboards before 2000, to my knowledge, were not available in "extra-long-shaft" versions, which are heartily recommended on these boats in "big water" like Long Island Sound. You really want the anti-ventilation plate above the prop to be at least 4" below the static waterline to help keep the prop from popping out of the water in big chop. (Even then, it will in some situations, but not enough to endanger the motor or you,)

But I'm glad you're not rushing--as said in my First Rule. Make your decision based on some other available boats. Everything is relative.

Edited by - Stinkpotter on 03/02/2014 22:56:44

Davy J
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
1511 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 05:33:53

<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">And Mercury outboards before 2000, to my knowledge, were not available in "extra-long-shaft" versions, <hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">
Mercury did, in fact, make extra long shaft outboards before 2000. I have the original 1987 Mercury "Sailpower" XL shaft sitting in the garage.

Just my advice, if you buy a boat with an older motor, budget in a new 4-stroke outboard right from the start. The 2000.00ish will be the best, piece of mind, enjoy the boat on every outing, you will ever spend.

Edited by - on

islander
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
4024 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 06:10:37

Do I know the boat? No but while you were there I came across this one http://longisland.craigslist.org/boa/4355628742.html My take from the photo's Looks to have cushions, Early 80ish (motor on the starboard side but the older framed windows), newer sails, roller furling, cockpit cushions,Honda(year?). Needs bottom paint and a good cleaning. Appears to have the standard window leaks that plague the framed windows.

Edited by - islander on 03/03/2014 06:22:03

Larman
Deckhand

Members Avatar

10 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 06:25:27

Islander saw that one also. Should I assume when it gets warmer more boats will be hitting the market?

Edited by - on

islander
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
4024 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 06:54:05

Maybe, Like it was for me finding a decent boat within range can be difficult. I was lucky that I found mine rather quickly in Clinton harbor CT and it met all the things I was looking for (86 or better, Wing keel, RF,No major problems) And I could get it home by water within 2 days. Did it in 1.Did you see this one http://www.sailboatlistings.com/cgi-bin/saildata/db.cgi?db=default& uid=default& view_records=1& ID=9278& mh=1 Judging by the newer frameless windows I don't know how this could be an 81. Good price. I'm guessing no RF though but it is local.

Edited by - islander on 03/03/2014 07:18:25

pastmember
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

2402 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 11:39:44

A broken stanchion could be an indicator of deck damage, if you go back look hard at the deck to see if it is sound.
As has been said before a $10,000 boat is a $10,000 boat you can pay now and sail or pay in pieces and sell less or more poorly. I suppose in 2014 it should be adjusted down as Dave suggested but the bottom line is if you want a great project boat, start with a great boat, then everything you do is an improvement and money well spent. I love old stock boats that are clean, sound and original.

Edited by - on

Stinkpotter
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Djibouti
9081 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 11:46:01

<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">Originally posted by Davy J
 Mercury did, in fact, make extra long shaft outboards before 2000. I have the original 1987 Mercury "Sailpower" XL shaft sitting in the garage...<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">I guess that was true for 2-strokes. When I was in the market around 2000, the "new" Mercury 4-strokes came in 15" and 20" only, as did the '90s Honda 8 that came on my boat. But my point was merely to be aware of the importance of the XL shaft in "big water." And I agree a 4-stroke is worth budgeting for.

Edited by - Stinkpotter on 03/03/2014 11:57:40

Larman
Deckhand

Members Avatar

10 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 13:50:33

Stanchion was snapped above the base no deck damage evident.

<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">Originally posted by pastmember
 A broken stanchion could be an indicator of deck damage, if you go back look hard at the deck to see if it is sound.
As has been said before a $10,000 boat is a $10,000 boat you can pay now and sail or pay in pieces and sell less or more poorly. I suppose in 2014 it should be adjusted down as Dave suggested but the bottom line is if you want a great project boat, start with a great boat, then everything you do is an improvement and money well spent. I love old stock boats that are clean, sound and original.
<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">

Edited by - on

Merrick
Navigator

Members Avatar

USA
192 Posts

Response Posted - 03/03/2014 : 14:49:22

A boat owner who never went into the cabin? Sounds a little suspect to me. It's also an easy way to "non-disclose" issues...As stated above, check ownership.

Also consider how much time you are able and willing to spend on boat projects. They can be an enjoyable part of ownership unless you don't have the time (or the money). Then the big leaking hulk in your back yard is not so fun anymore.

Edited by - on

kc5dlo
1st Mate

Members Avatar

USA
71 Posts

Response Posted - 03/04/2014 : 08:24:08

I looked at boat before purchasing the current boat and Every time I asked about equipment or systems, The answer was something like " I assume it works. I just never used it" My assumption from that point was that it did not work.

Edited by - on

azguy
Deckhand

Members Avatar

USA
6 Posts

Response Posted - 03/04/2014 : 08:33:17

Looking at the pictures via the link it look like a good deal IMHO.

If the hull and deck are not soft and the sail are decent, the rest looks like soap and a bucket. Keep in mind nothing is cheap, I've heard quote of up to $2,000 to replace and recover cushions. The biggest concern I would have is water intrusion and for how long....

But if you were going to drop $5,000 in her over the next few years while sailing I think you'd be happy as long as everything is structurally sound.

Edited by - on

Stu Jackson C34
Admiral

Members Avatar

844 Posts

Response Posted - 03/05/2014 : 16:10:45

Only masochists buy "project" boats.

We looked for our C25 for a year. We saw some that evidenced severe neglect, but nothing that elbow grease couldn't, initially it appeared, clean up.

But then, we started thinking: if the boat is so dirty, what about all the moving parts?

We ended up finding a really good clean boat. But STILL put a lot of effort into getting things cleaned up our way. But everything worked.

We did the same yearlong search in 1997-98 for our current boat. Same deal, only bigger issues 'cuz of all the more complex systems (inboard, pressure hot water, marine head, more sophisticated electrical system, etc.) Saw many dogs, even put in an offer on one that didn't pass a survey: the owner lied outright about the fridge! How stupid of him.

I agree, go see more boats, and when you find "The ONE!" you'll know it. How? You just sit down below with this big $hiteating grin on your face!

Happy hunting, good luck.

Edited by - on

clark1962
Deckhand

Members Avatar

USA
18 Posts

Response Posted - 03/05/2014 : 16:43:26

Am selling my boat. Come take a look Its clean & Dry. Re-gel coated the topsides last year. Don't have to sell but would entertain any reasonable offers
http://newjersey.craigslist.org/boa/4325854259.html

Edited by - on

Stinkpotter
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Djibouti
9081 Posts

Response Posted - 03/05/2014 : 18:46:53

<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">Originally posted by Stu Jackson C34
 We looked for our C25 for a year...

I agree, go see more boats, and when you find "The ONE!" you'll know it. How? You just sit down below with this big $hiteating grin on your face!

<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">That was the couple who bought my C-25... They couldn't hide it. (Probably strengthened my bargaining position!)

The search is instructive, productive, reaffirming, and FUN! Don't cut it too short.

Edited by - on

dasreboot
Admiral

Members Avatar

804 Posts

Response Posted - 03/05/2014 : 19:00:56

hey clark your draft board up is 2' 8" not 3' 10" :) you might get more buyers.

Edited by - on

Merrick
Navigator

Members Avatar

USA
192 Posts

Response Posted - 03/05/2014 : 19:55:57

if you end up buying it I have a setof used cushions for $100. (plus ship)

Edited by - on

islander
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
4024 Posts

Response Posted - 03/11/2014 : 08:24:10

If your still looking..http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/boa/4361395976.html

Edited by - on

Stinkpotter
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Djibouti
9081 Posts

Response Posted - 03/11/2014 : 09:02:32

<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">Originally posted by islander
 If your still looking..http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/boa/4361395976.html
<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">A few unanswered basic questions there (like vintage and mast)... Looks like 1987 with a tall rig. If he keeps it in the water year-round, as implied, the keel might very rarely be raised--its maintenance is another question. BTW, I wouldn't buy a swinger unless there was a specific need, and even then I'd look hard for a wing, especially in salt water.

One thing that needs immediate work: the name.

Edited by - Stinkpotter on 03/11/2014 09:08:38

islander
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
4024 Posts

Response Posted - 03/11/2014 : 11:12:08

<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">I am selling my beautiful 1986 Catalina 25,<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">
First line in the add, I agree on the swinger. I wouldn't touch one but I'm not the buyer and I just saw the add and knew he is/was looking so I thought I would point it out.
<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">One thing that needs immediate work: the name<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">
HaHa..Yea, Like you don't see that to often (Sarcastically)or the guy with Carpe Deim, Another one

Edited by - islander on 03/11/2014 11:20:59

Dave5041
Former Mainsheet Editor

Members Avatar

USA
3758 Posts

Response Posted - 03/11/2014 : 11:16:04

Wow, that one is tempting me.

Edited by - on

Page: of 2

Topic

New Topic

Topic Locked

Printer Friendly

Jump To:

Association Forum

Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.