blkipeaz
Junior Member
Posts: 2
Joined: 01/04/2008
I have owned 2 sumersets, but I am now interested in looking at
older Harbor Master or Gibsons. Late 80's, early 90's.
Can anyone let me know major issues to look for in these
specific boats.........etc window leaks, stringers, etc.
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Blkipeaz on the Tennessee River
Both vessels are good ones. Watch for deck cracks in the Gibson. But do follow the basic rules:
1: Seatrial
2:Mechanic Check
3: Out of water survey
But as you have owned boats before, I am sure you know this.
Those items do cost, but are well worth the cost once you have selected the boat, there are many out there right now, a great time to purchase, as it is a buyers market.
I bought my 1986 Harbor Master 47 about a year ago. It had been gently used. 750 hours on twin Crusader 350/270s, 150 on 11KW genset. Interior was very good but dated, and the Admiral didn't like the colors (that's spelled 'new carpet, vinyl, drapes'). Structurally sound with a few gelcoat cracks on the port catwalk, and some gelcoat stains that just won't come out. Bottom had been neglected and had numerous small blisters, 2 large blisters on transom. Mild odor in the bilge. All revealed in the survey. NOT revealed in survey: Prep for bottom paint revealed numerous blister repairs that needed rework, and large transom blisters were deep but not structural. Bottom prep and paint cost $1750 more than expected. After I replaced all the sewage drain lines, I discovered that the odor was from the bilge itself. At some time, the aluminum holding tank had failed - apparently while full of @#$%. Much cleaning required - very difficult and nasty. Aluminum potable water tank was still in service and had taste issues. While the carpet was being replaced, I took the opportunity to oversize (double) the deck hatch so that I could R&R that tank. The Admiral couldn't get a full shower out of a 12 gallon water heater, so I put in a 19. I would have preferred heat pump over roof air, and some insulation in the walls, but its a pretty good boat.
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Harbor Master 47 Watts Bar Lake - TN River
Peaz Last year we purchased a 1985 Gibson 44 with twin 270's. Low hours on engines and gen set 7.5 kw. We were instructed to check the stringers aft of the cabin as that seemed to be a weak spot or at least a place to break down. We have a bilge odor also, but nothing too bad, it gets worse when the boat hasnt been used for a period of time. Decide what size you need, then look at as many as you can before you buy. We love ours and have never regreted the purchase. Good luck on your quest. PS This is a great site to ask any questions as these folks are full of great advice. Hidro
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1985 Gibson 44 Twin 270 Crusaders Defeated Creek Marina Cumberland River TN
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01/04/2008 10:45:48 AM
