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« on: August 28, 2011, 11:59:52 AM »
I like your choice of boat :-)
From the description I think the survey (2010) was not as thorough as I would like to see, and appeared slightly biased. I was bothered by numerous spelling mistakes; It was also very interesting to see the keel reported as external, with keel bolts; every model I am aware of has internal (encapsulated) keel; from the photos it looks like mine.
The photos and description do not appear to support the assertion of it reflecting "the care of a conscientious crew"; rather, I saw signs of neglect...how long has she been shrinkwrapped - or rather, how long since she was regularly sailed? As you may know, of things have not been used for a while, they tend to age...as shrinkwrapped, why is there still moisture readings at base of stanchions?
The engine is very common, but seems like a lot of hours; I would definitely ask around, and get it checked, as a new engine is expensive. The leak in the salon is bothersome, not because it is difficult to fix - it should be straightforward - but because it could indicate neglect. The old datamarine instruments may be okay - I still use them, and a company (DMI) can repair and refurbish for less than replacing them all. Water heater - easy to replace, my original one still works fine - or rather did hen I replaced the heating element. BTW, if you do replace it, set it up so the engine coolant circulates into the water heater - so the engine heats it up when cruising - nice to have.
The real question is how much time and money are you willing to put in to get her to the condition you want. The P323 is a solid, well-build boat, so the "foundations" are probably solid; if the key expensive systems (engine, mast/rigging,no sodden core) are sound, other items are generally very accessible and relatively inexpensive to fix. If you can negotiate the right price, and have the budget for repairs, I would strongly suggest you get your own surveyor to do an unwrapped survey and sea-trial.
BTW, I have a full-batton loose footed main and love it.