Caught the Bug and would like advice.

[jkindredpdx]

Originally Posted by maestrowilldo

Thanks for your insight jkindredpdx. I get most of what you suggest, but what am I supposed to use the ice pick or screw driver for in the bilge? I'll put the stuff you mentioned in a check list for when we go see the PO. It was exactly what I was hoping for.

I don't think the boat you're looking at (it looks clean in the pics) would have an issue, but some older boats get soft spots in the hull (I think more common with wooden boats, wood deck, or a trailered glass boat that had signs of water pooled in the bilges over the winter).

So I wouldn't reenact Psycho, but if I saw a suspicious stain or place that looked weak or flaky, I'd gently poke to make sure the hull isn't soft or punky. Someone else could give you better opinion on etiquette, and if I'm nuts.

[maestrowilldo]

Sounds legit, I get it now, I would be checking for soft spots like from water damaged fiberglass core. I will certainly do so, in a circumspect none Psycho manner. Thanks for the clarification.

[CaribbeanCraig]

Larry Pardey Details of Classic Boat Construction is a great read . check it out .