Messages

Mike - Just sold mine and I can't agree more with the advice given.  My best advertisement was right here on the web site, getting inquiries from Alaska, Canada here in the Chesapeake.  But I believe my best asset was not only using a broker, but one that specializes in Catalina's.   Catalina people tend to stay Catalina people, and therefore, will go to a Catalina dealer first.  The dealer will be able to provide a print-out listing asking and sales prices for every equivalent boat in North America.  Once that is done, you'll be able to see where your true price will land.   In addition, a broker knows 27 or 30 owners who may be looking to upgrade.   

One PR move that I believe helped was a youtube video my broker made.  The link was right on the Yachtworld ad and my broker could track who was viewing it.   I think that attracted more out-of-state folks.  ( I can't prove it.)

Also, divorce yourself from the boat a bit.  We all get a little teary eyed when we value our own boat.  Step back a bit.  I know, I know - its years of blood, sweat, tears, and more than a few expletives you've put into the boat, but the buyer doesn't see that.   The folks that buy are not unemployed, but they understand that it's a buyers market.   If you were in their shoes, you would feel the same way.

I just put new batteries and S-1 auto-pilot on the boat as I did not know I would be selling this year.  It was a bit tough. But in the end, I think the buyer got a good deal and I got fair price. 

Thanks, Stu

Hey Ron - I now know what you are referring to.   However, I've searched for about 45 minutes and cannot find any of your articles.  The search function in the tech notes just keeps sending me back to the forum discussion and the wiki says its only for group users, whatever that is.   

Could you do me a favor and email me at sshnitzler@yahoo.com?

Thanks

2 seals?  Maybe mine is different but the only seal I see is the paper gasket.  (which I have).  Am I missing something?

Any one have the part number handy?  I've searched the site and can't seem to find it.  815?

Thanks

Put the flex o fold in about 4 - 5 years ago.  Can't agree more with the posts here.  Better sailing speed and the best benefit was less prop walk in reverse.

Just wanted to let folks know that I installed new injectors last year and it took care of the issue.  The job was easier than I thought it would be.  Engine runs a smoother now too.  Thanks

Makani - Don't know if you have started your project yet, but I used liquid orange stripper to remove the old shellac and then lightly sanded with 300+ grit.  Worked liked a charm and I didn't have to worry about sanding thru the veneer. 

Just my two cents.  I've been using NuFinish for years and couldn't be happier.  Two coats every Spring and its done for the season.  I haven't seen a Chesapeake mustache on the bow since I started using it.

Hump is right, there is alot on this already.

I put the compass in the starboard side storage compartment, which puts it just forward of the mast.  The control unit in in the rear salon locker.   I like it there as the control head is on the starboard side coaming just aft of the wheel.

The pump out at Herrington Harbour is free also.  They used to charge $5 bucks but went to free when they rebuilt after Isabel.  I guess some marinas do use taxpayer money wisely.

Tony - All I can say is - Yikes!

I'll keep you all posted.   Thay gave the test in English in October of this year, I'm just hoping they do the same in 2010.  I understand they will only give the test if they have a minimum of 10 people.  If not, I can bring a Japanese interpreter to the Japan language test. 

Ron and Steve - thanks for the size and the tips from others.  And yes, Chuck, unfortunately, the boat is still for sale.  I just told the marina I won't be renewing the slip. 

I'm moving to Japan next August and hope to buy a boat there.   I've learned that boats in the 25-35 foot range are readily available but a slip or mooring can be expensive.  Up to 3,000,000 Yen a year ($35,000).   Also, all operators of boats with engines 2 HP or larger must be licensed.  This includes passing a written exam (they give it in English once a year) and taking a practical sail (not sure how that works).  Luckily, there is a Tokyo Power and Sail Squadron that is part of the US Power Squadron that gives lessons to prepare for the test.   Hopefully, I can figure it all out.  In the meantime, the US Naval Base at Yokosuka, which is at the mouth of Tokyo Bay and only about an hours drive without traffic, 3 hours with traffic, has sail boats to rent.   So I can always feed the sailing jones that way for awhile.   

Well, it happened.  Every year, some critical part slips out my hand and falls into the water.  This year, while de-commissioning the boat and removing the sails, I dropped the gnurled bolt that screws into the mast to keep the mainsail from falling out of the mast.   

I looked on Catalina direct but could not find it.  I believe its a standard size bolt.  Anybody know the screw size, offfhaned?   

I got'em - They support the propane locker and the butt ends act as rudder stops.