Most importantly, the Mod 3s are stronger, more durable, and lots more user-friendly than the Mod 1s and 2. What to look for when evaluating a boat?
Condition of Hull – Look for gel-coat cracks. A few are okay, but an extensive pattern of cracks could indicate structural damage. Mod 1/2s often have a lot of cracks on the seats. These can get worse – a heavy crew could be be a problem. (Don’t laugh!) The Mod 1s have some plywood braces between the hull and the cockpit floor. If you can squeeze your upper body into the cuddy, shine a flashlight back there and see if some look like they are deteriorating. If so, that’s not good. How is the finish? Some older boats with colored hulls will be faded. Some can be buffed out, others are hopeless. Was the boat pulled up on beaches? Look for scratches and gouges on the bottom. Minor scratches can be wet-sanded out, gouges must be filled and sanded. Rudder and Centerboard – Older boats (Mod 1/2) used foam-filled blades that can be easily damaged. Look for cracks or chunks gouged out of the edges. New blades run about $200 each. Make sure the rudder works okay, without bent pintles or gudgeons
