Help buying a 89 Macgregor.

[dwatchous]

I currently own a 1972 Venture 2-22. I have come across a 1989 26 ft Macgregor that I am interested in moving up to. The price on the boat seems very reasonable but I noticed a couple of issues I would like help with. There is a crack about 24 inches long, running from the mast to the bow. It appears to be cosmetic. Would a crack like that be a major concern? Also, on the outside of the boat, there are a couple of spots where it looks like the finish has been buffed off. Is that a concern and what should be done about it? The current owner says both of these issues are cosmetic and of no real concern. The boat has not been in the water for nine years. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, dwatchous

[Catigale]

If the crack is just in the gelcoat (outer layer of the skin) it isnt material. If the deck is cracked its a major FG repair - not too expensive in materials, but expensive in labour.

Faded exterior is to be expected, not a concern.

You should have the boat surveyed professionally if you are new to it and dont want to take a chance with your money

[impinnacr]

I too purchased an '89 mac classic a couple years ago. This was my 2nd Mc. I bought brand new in 87 and sold it in 92. (school tuition, etc, etc. ) Anyway, I got this boat on ebay and went to see the boat before buying. It had several gelcoat cracks in the deck in the cockpit and on the foredeck. The integrity of the deck itself is good so I am sure its just the gelcoat. The hull is ok but has several gelcoat blemishes that were fixed by the PO.

The thing is, I am not into this boat by much $$. So, month by month, year by year I put a little into it here and there. To me, its my hobby, so I don't look at it as investment money, its just hobby money. There will probably be a day when I'm done with it and I'll move on with no regrets.
My advice is check the integrity of the deck and hull. If there is a structural problem, then move on. If not then get it for what you want to spend and have fun.