Deck joint leak...

[Bayrat]

A friend of mine asked me to go look at a boat with him a few days ago as he is totally unfamiliar as to brands etc. He has his eye on a 1998 Wellcraft Martinique 3000 with twin Volvo power.

We found at least two areas where the deck/hull joint was leaking. I was able to inspect the joint with the access panel for the electronics removed. It is a typical shoe box style connected with caulk and screws, not even a wood strip for a backer. I would assume that is why the leaks are occurring.

His family really loves the layout of that boat. I told him that I would not buy it after seeing what I saw, but if he can purchase it right he could remove the rub rail, dig out the old caulk, seal with 5200 and install new fasteners.

I also suggested he hire a surveyor prior to purchase.

I felt really bad about knocking this boat, I know they wanted it. Was I too hard on the Wellcraft, placing too much emphasis on the hull to deck issue?

 

[PascalG]

you feel bad knocking a boat that the manufacturer didn't think was worth more than screws to hold the hull/deck joint ?

the hull/deck joint is one of the first thing a buyer should look at... not the drink holders or the damn flatscreens !!!

 

[Bayrat]

Pascal G,

It was a double edged sword. The family looked upon me to reassure them the boat was good and when I pointed out some problems they were sooo disappointed. The salesman at the marina was not happy with me and feels I am too picky. But I agree with you 100%.

 

[Liquid Diet 2]

I agree with Pascal on this issue. Wellcrafts have had good years, but IMO too many bad ones.

 

[Al_Prisco]

Donald, You gave them good advice and should feel good about helping out a friend. I have seen alot of problems with these boats in relation to moisture contamination.

 

[David M]

Donald,

If they insist on buying the boat, would you feel worse now or later had you not told them.

If that is the ONLY problem and they do buy the boat, rubrail R/R is not that big a deal. As a matter of fact, with the material available today, it can be made better than factory.

 

[Crossroads]

If you are a DIY'er type person, the task and cost of replacing the complete rub rail, resealing, replacing/adding screws and adding backing at selected points is not that great and its a nice winter project. I have done it before and I wouldn't back away from a boat over this issue but I would expect to hammer the seller when negotiating price.

 

[Bayrat]

Thanks to everyone for the remarks and information. David, I sent him your link to the job you did. I just received an e-mail from them, they are looking at a 322 Meridian today so hopefully this boat is better constructed than the other one.