[rwilson]

Am having problems deciding between two boats and was considering between 1974 Trojan F-32 and a 1987 Cruisers Inc 33. Trojan is very nice well kept on fresh water, Cruisers is a salt water boat with very few hours. How much damage does salt do over time and ' sitting' and does fiberglass disintegrate over 30 years? Thanks in advance ... Paradox

[POINTER94]

To the best of my knowledge salt water doesn't affect fibreglass at all. It is the rest of the materials that take the hit. Anything steel, the engine, increased electrolsis, (drives, shafts and rudders) wiring, and on... Years ago Pearson yachts was one of the pioneers of fibreglass and the pearson commander I think was one of their first efforts. They took a core sample from one 30 years later and showed no remarkable change in the laminiates or their strength.Comparing the two without being there is very difficult.

[rwilson]

Thanks, the Trojan is at my marina and is a sweet looking boat, the others will have to be shipped so that plays into it, I worry about mechanics that sit for years too.....

[POINTER94]

Sorry Paradox,I was interrupted, and had to walk away for a bit. I currently own a cruisers (25ft) and I am very happy with the level of assistance I have recieved from the factory here in Wisconsin. The build quality is very high, and the design is good. The materials are outstanding and the boat itself has worn well. (15 years)Trojan as well has a good reputation, but I think they are no longer mfg'ed. That in and of itself doesn't really mean anything but getting tech support from the factory has been real nice as I am trying to update the boat. I am confident that some of the more competent mechanic's of this forum can give you some direction on what to look for in an engine run in salt. The only salt my boat in Wisconsin see's is when someone drops a marguarita. I think your search has narrowed down to a couple of excellent mfg'rs and hopefully you can get into one before the summer grows short. Keep us posted as to how your search goes or concludes and good luck.

[Luna Sea]

Wow, 14 year difference. I had a 1972 Silverton, it was a tank, wood house on it though. This "could" be a potential boat to find stringer problems and/or gelcoat blistering. I know the particular boat and it's nice, but I'd go 14 years newer. Cruisers hull's less likely to show any damage/stress cracks for another 14 years where the 74's just about pushing the "how long will these boats last" era.Good luck either way, sure to be a good summer for you (hopefully)