Being your own surveyor when purchasing a boat

[NiceAft]

From time to time, a post will pop up inquiring about buying a Mac, and what to look for. I saw this article in the latest B.O.A.T.U.S. magazine on being your own surveyor.

I thought it would be of assistance to those who may be lurking in the shadows, but have not yet stepped forward. A starting point, so to speak.

https://www.boatus.com/expert-advice/ex ... n=magazine

[dlandersson]

Very nice, thank you.

From time to time, a post will pop up inquiring about buying a Mac, and what to look for. I saw this article in the latest B.O.A.T.U.S. magazine on being your own surveyor.

I thought it would be of assistance to those who may be lurking in the shadows, but have not yet stepped forward. A starting point, so to speak.

https://www.boatus.com/expert-advice/ex ... n=magazine

[Clipster]

The boat has no thru hulls aside from the sink drains, so hull inspection is pretty basic. Ya gotta get under there for centerboard inspection, so there's that. Otherwise its the dangly bits (rudders, outboard, mast, rigging) that needs to be inspected after that. Finish it off with tanks, gauges and electronics, and you're good to go.

[Inquisitor]

Reading this forum extensively, I'm familiar with the problems areas. No matter what condition people find their used Mac... meaning going into the purchase thinking they know the level that they need to fix/refurbish... be it just a thorough cleaning, remove mold, etc. OR... even someone recently got a storm damaged one with the pulpit and bow severely damaged. (He's got game! to take that one on! More power to him)

I'm wondering... how many LATER found a lot more than they bargained for and what was lurking that they or even a surveyor missed?

[Be Free]

While not technically through-hulls, there is a drain in the engine well and one in the anchor locker. Both drain through plastic hoses that can degrade or come loose and allow water to enter the boat. The anchor locker would leak onto the v-berth cushions while the engine well will leak into the bilge. Neither is large enough to allow a great deal of water to come through but they can make a mess. Of the two I'd be more concerned with the engine well. If it is leaking you will not know about it until the water starts coming out through the hole under the companionway.

Another common source of water ingress on a Mac is the chain plates. Look for any signs that bedding has been disturbed, is missing or has been replaced in a sloppy manner.

Another item to look for in a Mac is the wiring. The original wiring was very basic but technically sufficient. With age the insulation on the lamp cord wiring becomes brittle and connections may have begun to corrode. Any modified or added wiring should be examined. It's honestly a toss-up whether it is going to be better or worse than what came with the boat. Anything better is cause for celebration; anything worse is likely to be dangerous.