Fair price for mid 80's 18

I found this 18 posted to craigslist in my area and trying to gauge what is a fair price. Still have little information, such as the year, but he sent me a photo of the sails with the sail number which 10520. Does anyone know which year this would line up to? http://cincinnati.craigslist.org/boa/5196729077.html

I owned a Hobie 16 as my first boat, I knew what to look for there. Do you look for the same issues on an 18? Is hull delamination an issue on 18's as it is on a 16?

Pretty much looking to get onto a cat for as cheap as I can so I can mess around during the week since my other boat is docked an hour and a half from me. Just don't want to insult the guy with a lowball offer.

I bought a boat in nicer condition with wings for $1200 and thought it was a pretty good deal. I wouldn't offer anything over $750. Probably throw out $500 cash or something depending on the sails.

May need new lines and rigging so factor in that expense (> $400)


Best luck

JS

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Justin


H18 Magnum
Contour 30MKII Trimaran

All Hobies can have soft spots! This boat looks like owner really does not care about it, looking at how they are stowing the standing rigging and the moss growing by the crossbar. I agree with jds0912 start at $500. you might increase your offer if the sails are in good condition. If the hulls are solid it looks like it could be a good builder. The pluses are the New Style Rudder Castings, EPO's (the EPO's can be cleaned up) plus a cat box.
The trailer has rollers so inspect the bottom of the hulls for any damage where they are making contact wit the hulls.

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Corkguy H18, Tiger, Wildcat

It is a 1984/1985 vintage H18. This is based off of the hull stripes and the Coleman sticker. This is likely a "red line" boat which would mean lighter construction than prior boats. If the hulls are in good shape, this can be a good thing.

The main thing to look for is up under the hull flange, on both the inboard and outboard sides of the hulls, where the crossbars bolt up, you wan to check for hull cracks. These boats were very susceptible to cracking. If not already installed, you would want to add the crossbar reinforcement kit and possibly even add some fiberglass inside the hulls to add strength.

These can be highly desirable boats if they are in good shape due to the light weight. I would not be deterred by some moss/mold growth. The hulls can be easily cleaned up with soap, water, polish, and some elbow grease. Based on the sail number, it is the original sail, so could be pretty beat after 30 years. Check for cracks, soft spots, corrosion, and any damage to the big ticket items. If i is overall in good shape, this could be a nice find.

sm

Alright, thanks for the help guys. $500 was about what I was thinking as well because that's all I want to spend right now. I'll take a look and let you know what I find.

my '78 H18, $500.00 boat took another $500.00 in lines and parts, $200.00 into trailer, to be able to sail. a lot of elbow grease. but it is all worth it. that was 15 years ago, buying quality stuff and proper storage, was a good investment. this year, i can move forward, rather than replacing stuff i have already replaced.