Dart 15 Forums

Mike Krayenbrink wrote:

Hi,

Being new to the Dart 15 world can anybody give me some advise on what to look out for when buying a second hand boat(apart from obvious defects!). I am hoping to buy an older boat to get me started and am happy to give it some TLC but don't want to buy a "pup". The max I could afford is about ?2k. Will I be able to get something reasonable or am I kidding myself! Does anybody know of any good old boats out there?

Thanks

Dartful Codger 3 replied:

Hi Mike
There are currently 3 boats on our web-site in your price range.
Things to look out for :-
1 Sail condition ( as opposed to sale condition!)
Dart 15 sails are generally very robust, and can can last 10 years or more, whilst remaining reasonably competitive for racing. However, places to check are between the luff rope and the plastic batten pocket for tears or repair patches, wear at the bottom of the bolt rope, scuffing where the sail hits the shrouds, and condition of battens - check for splitting or de-laminating (@?100/set to replace).
Hulls - Obviously check all along the bottom , particularly in the skeg area for splits, repair damage etc. and the sides / top for stress cracks.
Mast - 1 or 2-piece check for dents / kinks - should be generally straight .
Trampoline - very important piece of kit as it holds the whole boat together and helps prevent the hulls twisting independently of one another - check the stitching and bolt ropes. Also check that the boat has a full cover with it, as boats left out in the elements will be exposed more to sunlight, which ultimately will have an adverse effect on the fabric ( @ ?200 to replace)
Rudders - Check blades for damage, repairs - these are made in 2 halves and can split down the edge. Lifting the tiller arm allows the rudder to pivot upwards when in shallow water, so check that the mechanism works properly .
Rigging - Check for broken strands / rusting , although you can replace it all for around ?35 .
It would also make sense to check our web-site for the nearest club to you, and pay them a visit one weekend. You will find us all most helpful and willing to chat to ensure you find a good deal.
Happy hunting
Paul Smith 1961(Beaver S.C) Yorkshire

Mike Krayenbrink replied:

Paul,

Many thanks for the advice much appreciated. Hopefully I will become a proud owner soon!

Mike.