looking at used CD 25--need advice

[Megunticook]

I'm going to look at a CD25 that's been stored outside, under a tarp for 7 years. The owner says they bought it and never sailed it. What sort of problems should I be looking for?

They're only asking $1,600. I don't mind doing some work, including some fiberglass repair, but I have a job and a young family and am not looking for a project that will take years. Kids are growing up fast and we want to have it in the water next May.

I'm guessing this boat is going to need major TLC, but would appreciate any and all advice on what to look for, any considerations. I understand that it's not good for a boat to sit unused year after year, but don't know the specific issues to be looking for.

We don't have a huge budget and would probably do better with a less expensive purchase that requires some time and elbow grease over the winter--anything over $5K is probably beyond us at this point.

Thanks for you help.

[NateHanson]

Obviously you'll have to take a look at it to see how things look under the tarp. Certainly it will require a bunch of cleaning.

Check for sponginess in the deck. Also consider the condition of the equipment on the boat, such as sails, motor, electronics (if any). If the boat has good sails, a serviceable furler, and some basic electronics (depth at least) then that's $5000 worth of stuff you don't have to worry about purchasing. Much of the rest is just a matter of labor. If the decks are rotted, you're looking at a big project, but not necessarily an expensive one. If they're not, then you might just be looking at a lot of cleaning up and some painting and varnishing to get the boat to a point where you're out enjoying it next summer. Other members specifically familiar with the 25 can advise you about how to inspect the chain plates for potential problems.

I'd go inspect it with $1000 in my pocket, and if it isn't too much of a project see if they'll take $800. Sounds like they're in a hurry.

Good luck!

[Neil Gordon]

There are two categories: (i) Safe and ready to sail. (ii) Everything else.

If the hull is sound, the rig and standing rigging are sound, the sails are okay and the motor is okay, you're most of the way there.

See if there's someone here who might go over the boat with you in exchange for a beer or two. (Where is the boat located?) That might identify the obvious. After that, I'd invest in a survey.

[pete faga]

Looks like the boat is in Falmouth Maine.
Maybe someone on the board that lives in the area will take a look for you?
$1600 asking price is worth taking a peak
Good luck

[Brian2]

We used to have a 25. They are a much different boat than a 25D, and I am not sure the 25 is an Alberg design.

Look for gate valves they don't work, and a reverse camber to the gunwales, which means water flows towards the cabin top instead of away from it. The jib may be hank on and small, but that is OK for the 25. We used to have problems with exhuast fumes and smoke collecting in the motor well, as the area dosen't breathe well. Of course, our 25 came with a 9.9 electric start with altenator, so the motor was big for the boat.

[Gary M]

Excersice caution. A boat owner who left his boat on the hard for 7 years under a tarp doesn't sound like a boat owner who ever took good care of his boat.

Since it has been sitting for 7 years, the owner will take a lower offer because he is done with the boat.

If this boat is sitting in a boat yard it is costing him money and he will take a lower offer.

If it sitting in his driveway you will have to pay to transport it, unless it is on a trailer that you didn't mention.

When I buy a boat, I have found I can learn a lot from the owner. Ask direct questions. Listen to the answers.

In my experience the cheap boat can end up being the more expensive boat.

Water in the bilge that freezes can be a major problem. Look for any sign of hair line cracks in the hull.

When deck fitting come loose and are not re-bed correctly, water can seep in to the deck and saturate the wood core and cause soft decks. The boat could still be usable but hard to resell until corrected. Check all deck fittings.

Make sure winches work.

Make sure the sails are in good condition and fit the boat.

The running rigging will need cleaning and maybe replacing.

Check the thru hull valves to see if they open and close.

Will the interier cushions need to be replace before your wife will sit on them?

Does it have a motor and does it run and fit in the well?

You'll need some safety equipment of course. Life jackets, flares, horn, VHF radio, and such.

You didn't mention your boating experience but boats can cost money at unexpected times, so don't cut it too close on you budget.

Check the boat yourself first and see if anything stands out as a deal breaker. If you are still interested, a survey from some one with sail boat experience can give you a lot of information and peace of mind.

Good Luck with it. The CD25 is a fine boat. I've heard nothing but good things about them.

Gary

[Megunticook]

Thanks everyone. Looked at the boat today and met the owner.

One concern is the sails--they need to be replaced. What would a new mainsail and jib run, ballpark?

Overall boat seems to be in decent shape. Hull looks decent from what I can tell. Not sure about the electronics--things looked good but can't confirm that they work since current owner didn't sail it.

I'll try and post some pictures when I get a minute.

[Jdpmus]

Purchased new furling genoa and main in 2011 for our 1974 CD25. Cost was around $2k including installation.

[Megunticook]

Thanks. I'm waiting on a quote from a local sailmaker. I see stuff online for around 1K for the 2 sails but gather this is made overseas and "you get what you pay for."

How about a 4-stroke that will fit in the motor well? Would a honda 5hp do the trick? Sounds like that's another $1,700.

So that's almost 4K in post-purchase expenses to add to the purchase price.

Am waiting on a quote to haul it 180 miles to my house, guessing that will run another $400-500.

Hmmmm. . .that asking price is starting to seem pretty high now.

Also, talked to a guy who owned it before the current owner, loved the boat but did mention that he repaired the cockpit sole which had gotten soft.

[pete faga]

Sounds like you get no motor. Maybe that's a advantage for you!
Is there a furler or hank on sails.
you can always get a good used motor and some sails
Hopefully the owner will reduce the price and make it more comfortable for you to purchase.
Let us know your progress
Pete

[tartansailor]

There are two categories: (i) Safe and ready to sail. (ii) Everything else.

If the hull is sound, the rig and standing rigging are sound, the sails are okay and the motor is okay, you're most of the way there.

See if there's someone here who might go over the boat with you in exchange for a beer or two. (Where is the boat located?) That might identify the obvious. After that, I'd invest in a survey.

My sentiments exactly.

[Maine_Buzzard]

Double that quote for hauling, and it's the busy season. I pay $300 for a haulout and transport to my yard that is 10 miles away.

Call Buck and Roberta at Dayton Marine for great service. 207 541 3802

[Megunticook]

Boat hauler here in midcoast Maine quoted $450.

Has a "Furlex" from '95.

Agree about the motor, would rather buy a new Tohatsu and maintain it diligently.

Bohndell in Rockport quoted $2400 for new sails.

So we're talking $4450 in expenses beyond the purchase price. That leaves $550 in the budget. Don't think the owner is going to take an offer like that.

Here's some quick cellphone pictures I took:

[Neil Gordon]

So we're talking $4450 in expenses beyond the purchase price. That leaves $550 in the budget.

I'm thinking you're getting into the range where you could find a 25 with acceptable sales, motor and more.

[Stan W.]

I agree with Neil. You should have no problem finding a CD 25 in sail-away condition for less than $5,000.