1989 CS 36 Merlin

[robfuse]

Dear owners of CS boats , need advice.I'm seriously considering (found one)to purchase 1989 CS 36 Marlin.Boat is in the very good shape only freshwater use. What I should to look for?After reading some reviews and few owners comments they point out to difficult access to the engine for maintenance, oil, filter change ( they described that " acrobatic ability required) . Also one or two owners complained about shallow bilge and difficulty to keep them dry. Do you experienced some of the same issues ? What do you generally think about this boat model? Thank You. I'll appreciate it any comments and insights.
Sincerely, Robert M.

[Vasco]

I have hull #36 built in 1988. Have had her since new. Still going strong. Didn't like the Volvo 2003, the worst thing about the boat. Got a Yanmar now. Absolutely no complaints about the boat except the shallow bilge but I can live with that. Gone south 8 times in her. Sitting in Georgetown, Bahamas right now and two Merlins sailed in. Nice looking boats.

The fixed glass in the sides will leak. The fix is aluminum frames and then it's fine. No other water or leak problems.

As to engine access, no problems. Easier on the Volvo than Yanmar but not a problem. If you want access problems try a Yanmar 4JH3E in a Beneteau 393.

[robfuse]

Thank you Vasco for quick reply. Could you tell me in which way the shallow bilge is a little "dissatisfying"" (collecting water , doesn't drain it, etc.) .
Best regards.
Robert Mroz

[Vasco]

Sailing on the wind the bilge water will go to the low side and never activate the bilge pump. No sump so difficult to keep a dry bilge.

[robfuse]

Thank You Vasco.
Robert

[6227]

And to further irritate you... when heeled over even 1/2 gallon of water will slosh over the floorboards and eventually ruin them. Ask me how I know...