Buying a DS2 - What to inspect

[DavidF]

I am going to look at a 1977 DS2 tomorrow. If it looks good, I plan to buy it.

I plan to inspect it, look at the mast, sails, hull, etc. As DS2 owners, do you have any specific recommendations on areas that should be inspected, common issues, etc.

Thank you,

David.

[TIM WEBB]

One thing to look for is to check whether or not the centerboard uphaul through-hull grommet mod has been done. DS2s are notorious for leaking water into the bilge from this area. It's where the wire comes through the forward edge of the CB trunk and leads toward the mast base. The factory installed grommets had a tendancy to not completely fill the void between the inside of the CB trunk and the bilge, allowing H2O ingress. If it hasn't been accomplished, it's not a deal breaker, as it's a pretty easy, straightforward fix if you do decide to buy the boat all else considered.

Also, if you do buy, you might consider purchasing Roger Conrad's book which is specific to the DS2 version. Check the sticky at the top of the list in this section of the forum ...

[jdubes]

I second what Tim called out with one more. DS2's have a cable system for raising and lowering the CB, DSI's don't have this setup. Search the site for things like "Cable" "CB Cable", there are numerous threads that discuss this setup. These boats easy and fun to work on

Also, I'm not sure of your situation, but if it has a mast tabernacle I would use it as a negative to get the price down. And depending on your plans, the age of the sails are important. You'll pay a minimum $500 for non-competition sails.

[jeadstx]

Probably has a hinged mast tabernacle, I think all the DS2's do. Check the plates on the tabernacle for tightness and being on straight. Check the standing rigging. 3/32" stays were original. Most owners replace them with 1/8" stays. D&R Marine has all the replacement and repair parts for Day Sailers. I got my replacement stays from D&R. Check the sails. When I got my DS2, I didn't check the sails close, that was a mistake. The first time I took the boat out I found problems with the sails. The previous owner had sewn all the batten sleeves shut, without battens in them. I had my sails worked on, but also have replaced them with some I found on eBay. Check halyards and sheets. Check the cockpit and hull drains in the stern. Find if they have thier plugs. Check the trailer.

Also check the cockpit inspection ports located at forward end of the cockpit. These will allow you to check the centerboard bolt and the condition of the flotation in the inner hull. Additional inspection ports are a plus as you can check more interior areas. I've redone all my flotation with pool noodles. Another place to check would be the jib sheet tracks on the inside of the rails. Check for tightness. Check the chain plates where the stays are attached. Check the condition of the spreaders.

I bought my DS2 with several problems including a cleat pushed through the deck on the bow. All easily repaired. Some things I had planned to upgrade before I bought the boat, so they weren't a problem. I've sailed my boat in 2011 Texas 200. Texas 200 is a 200 mile sail up the Texas coast. The Day Sailer is a tough little boat.

The above are not deal breakers, just would allow negotiating. Check out D&R Marine for parts if any thing looks like it needs repair or replacement.

John

[TIM WEBB]

Not all DS2's had/have mast hinges - The Red Witch didn't have one until last Summer, and someday I'll look back on that, laugh nervously, and change the subject ...

Anyway, I think it might be useful here (and this is just general sailboat info) to come to some clarification about what the difference is between a mast hinge and a tabernacle, because I think a lot of folks get the two confused:

A mast hinge is usually just that: simply two plates that are bolted to the bottom of the upper part of the mast and the top of the lower part. The mast is cut at some point not too far above the partners (where it comes up out of the cuddy roof), and the hinge is attached. The upper part is connected to the lower part by means of a pin or pins inserted through both to hold them in place, and the mast is raised.

A tabernacle is like a hinge, but is usually affixed right at deck level, and may or may not incorporate any below deck support. Also, it has slots, instead of just holes to accept a pin(s), that aid in the setting of the butt of the mast into it and raising same. There is no plate on the upper part of the mast, rather usually just short pins protruding from the sides of the mast butt, and once it's up, they're locked into place in the slots.

OK, so that's my lesson for tonight! Sorry, just thought I'd clear that up - any questions, just see me after class ...

[DavidF]

Thank you for all of the great advice!

David.

[Skippa]

David,
The advice you have gotten so far is accurate. Remember that you are looking at a boat that is over 30 years old. I'am comming to the end of my second season in my 1980 DSII. Mine sat in a garage for 17 years before I took it home. A partial list of upgrades.....
Trailer tires, wheel bearings, Intensity Sails, ($470.00) Halyards, Jib sheets, Upgraded Jib sheeting to centerboard trunk arrangement. Three addtional inspection ports, One can of spar varnish, One bottle of fiberglass rubbing compound.
I am sure there are a few additional items but all that being said, I love this boat. I love it more every time I take her out. You have already found the best place to find reapir advice.
If the hull is sound and the mast is straight, find a price that makes you both happy, You will be the happier of the two.
Kevin