Sea Trial Recommendations

[trpsurf]

I am nearing the purchase of a 22' C-Dory Cruiser and have a sea trial scheduled in about a week.

I thought it would be great to tap into the knowledge base here on what to look for while on the sea trial. My plan is to create a check list of sorts, which I would be happy to share back c-brat community for other potential owners.

Does something like this exist, or do you have any recommendations on what to look for, questions to ask, etc. while on this critical test drive.

I am a first time boat owner and would love some thoughts and advice.

Thanks
Tim

[hambone]

For me making sure the motor or motors are in good running condition. If the motor is new your good to go, if not get the maintanace records done on it.

H

[Will-C]

I would try to find someone to go along with you that knows boats. Maybe someone from a local authorized dealer that deals with the motor that is coming with the boat. Maybe a C-Brat that is nearby could ride along. I don't know what a marine surveyor would cost but I would try to have someone along on your side to ask questions and help you poke around. The motor should idle smoothly and be run at all different RPM levels. Ask for service records and a garden hose can add some water to the cockpit to see if the bilge pump functions. If it has a stove ask to have them fire it up. Check the batteries see how old they are normally five years is the time they should be changed out. See when the last time the water pump impeller has been serviced and if the thermstats have ever been changed in the motor. Is the prop in good condition. After the sea trail check for water in the boat. If canvas included is that in good shape. The trailer is part of the deal includes one check out the tires,brakes and roller or bunks the boat sits on while the boat is off the trailer and in the water. Look for excessive rust and corrosion anywhere on the trailer Get a list of items that will be included such as anchors anchor chain and rode, bumpers, lines, life jackets etc. Look at this site for a comparable boat that is for sale to see if the cost is in line. Ask for keys for all locks, I'm sure I misses a ton of stuff others will chime in sooner or later. Good Luck
D.D.

[JamesTXSD]

Since you haven't owned a boat before, the sea trail can be a sensory overload, trying to take it all in. If you have a trusted friend who knows boats, invite them along. What you want to see is how everything works, and does it "feel right" to you. The C-Dory hull is a different animal, and gives a great ride as long as you match your speed to the conditions. Be sure to see how the boat feels at speed and at whatever speed you think you'll be running the most.

Start with a walk around - does the hull look like it's in good shape? Look down the sides to see that there is a smooth flow to the surface. Look where anything is through-bolted to see if it looks tight. Open the motor cowling and see if it looks clean. Check the oil level. Does the oil look clean? When you start up the motor, does it run smooth in idle? Turn on all electronics to make sure they work. Look around at the wiring - is it bundled nicely or a rat's nest (not good)? Turn the wheel lock to lock to see if it feels smooth through the turn both ways.

Climb into the v-berth to make sure you fit. See how the coverings are on all the seating surfaces (if the boat isn't new, has the foam broken down?). Look into all the corners - is it clean? It's pretty obvious if an owner has done a quick "once over" or if the boat is thoroughly cleaned... may give you a feeling on how the owner has cared for it. While you're at that, see what kind of shape the owner's truck and/or house is in.

Out on the water, make sure the engine feels smooth all through the different throttle settings. Run the steering full rack side to side. Run the trim tabs (they won't be effective at slow speeds). Make sure the engine trim works. Ask for a radio check on the vhf. Double check all the other electronics while underway. Make sure the engine is peeing properly (water stream coming out of it).

Look at the tires on the trailer, as well as the wheels and bearings. If you can, jack up each side of the trailer and give the wheels a spin to make sure nothing is grinding. Any rust anywhere on the trailer? Bunks in decent shape? Does the boat fit well on the trailer? Check the lights to make sure they all work. If the trailer has surge brakes, make sure they are functioning.

When the boat comes out of the water, pull the plug on it to see how much drains out. Make sure the bilge pump(s) work. Any unusual water draining anywhere when it comes out on the trailer? Thump along the hull to make sure there are no "dull" spots... you may notice a different sound where bulkheads meet the hull, but not an issue as long as it doesn't sound dull when you thump it. Look at the transom as you run the motor up and down, to make sure there isn't unusual flex.

OK, that should get you started. A good marine surveyor is a sound investment if you have questions.

Have fun. It's a boat, and there isn't anything that can't be fixed - you just want to minimize additional $$$ outgo right away.

Best wishes,
Jim B.

[thataway]

Lots of good suggestions. I don't always suggest a surveyor on a C Dory, but in the case where you are a first time owner--I would suggest one. Where is the boat located, and what body of water and time are you going to do the trial?

The boats have a cored bottom of the hull, and transom is either balsa, ply or foam--depending on the year. These need to be checked with a moisture meter. A good surveyor knows how to do this--and there are some tricks to avoid errors in the results.

I agree with Jim, on the ride. You do have to know how to run the boats. I like to sea trial a boat in rough conditions--but for a first time boat owner in a C Dory, that could be a big turn off!

I reviewed your other posts, and it looks as if you are buying in S. Calif, and have a surveyor lined up. Take the surveyor for a ride-It is often done--may cost a few more $$. I know of a good surveyor, who I believe is still in business in the Long Beach area.

If the boat is trailered--also check the temp of the hubs with an IR heat sensor (you will want one anyway, and they are cheap).

You will want to take a CG Aux or Power squadron course. Also buy "Chapmans" Piloting and Seaman ship.

I spent most of my life in Long Beach and nearby communities--thousands to trips to Catalina and the channel Islands over a period of over 65 years. You want to head out early in the day in the C Dory--it is not a boat for running into the chop after 11 AM. You can safely come "down hill" later in the day--but best to be back in the harbor by mid afternoon, or snugged down at the Island. You can work your way around the coast line of Catalina during later times in the day, but probably not want to go around the West end after noon.