Buying second-hand steel yacht: What to watch out for?

[yr2030]

Originally Posted by Reefmagnet

Due to where it sits on the galvanic scale, aluminum easily turns into a sacrificial anode for most common metals used in construction. Very important to protect it from electrolysis.

There aren't enough zincs to protect aluminum. Only place for it is in freshwater

[yr2030]

Originally Posted by Wielingen

Hey All!

I'm planning to buy a steel sailing boat (+-30 ft). The boat was built in the early 1950s. On first sight, it seems well maintained but I've already bought and sailed two second hand polyester yachts and they too have their issues.

I'm going to visit the boat and take a look. What should I watch out for? What are typical steel yacht issues?

Thanks for your input and Merry Christmas!

Wielingen

Sounds like a Sutton Ketch I've been scoping out in upper Michigan. Steel is a great materiel. It just takes plenty of time to care for. Now there is a new steel made in Japan called R41 which is seawater corrosion-resistant plate produced by Kawasaki Steel. It's used on exterior hull and super structure from bilge up. Doesn't need the annual paint job, just touches here and there.