Hi Robbin,
Of course there are lots of things to look for, but I'll just mention a
couple here to get you started :-)
1) Deck core.
Wet deck core can be fixed, but it's a pain (ask me how I know...). On
the off chance that the present owner doesn't want you drilling
numerous test holes in the deck ;-), you can get a pretty good idea by
looking inside at the areas where the various deck hardware items are
attached (bow pulpit, jib tracks, traveller, etc.) If you see rusted
bolts, orange staining, or any other signs of water having leaked
through in those areas, it might be prudent to remove some hardware and
check the condition of the deck core.
You can also "sound" the deck with something like a plastic mallet, or
a screwdriver handle. A nice "ring" sound is good; a dull thump can
indicate moisture. On my 1981 (which I had surveyed by a professional
since I was halfway across the country - a lot of good THAT did), the
rust was there, and after I got the boat home I ended up with a bit of
a re-core project (quite a bit of the bow under the pulpit, large areas
under the jib tracks, the area under the mast step - which was crushed,
not wet - and some places under the traveler bolts.
2) Transom.
On an older-style M-17 (pre-1981), I would check over the
transom-to-hull area. On that style M-17 the top of the transom does
not have the (stronger) out-turned "lip" at the top edge of the
transom, and on several I looked at I found cracking on the transom
about a half inch in from the edges where they joined the topsides
(sides of the hull above the waterline). In other words, where the
hull planking would join the transom planking if it were a wooden boat.
Happy shopping!
--- Rachel
Fatty Knees 7' #302
Former owner, M-17 #334
Former owner, M-15 #517
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