Which years for solid fiberglass under deck hardware?

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Splendid Isolation
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Joined: 9/13/20
Posts: 30
Which years for solid fiberglass under deck hardware?

Hi everyone, I'm new here, and apologies if this has been answered before. I'm in the market for a used Catalina -- trying to choose between a 30, 34 and 36 to sail on SF Bay. My last boat was a 2011 MacGregor 26M, which I bought new. I grew up sailing a Cal 39 on Chesapeake Bay. I'd describe myself as a day sailor/crusier who would spend the majority of my time inside the Gate, but might be tempted to trek down to Half Moon Bay, Monterey or up to Drakes on occasion. 

I've made 1988 my first cutoff year, since that seems to be when Catalina addressed the smile issue (though I realize many people consider this cosmetic), as well as the block under the compression post on the C-30 failing and causing the cabintop to bow in (a fix I don't want to have to attempt myself). 

As I'm trying to avoid deck surgery in the future, as well, I'm also wondering if anyone knows when Catalina started using solid fiberglass (instead of a balsa core) under those areas of the deck where hardware or fittings are attached. I've noticed on newer models, for instance, that shrouds connect to and pass through the deck on a raised molded rectangle in the deck, that presumably holds some kind of plate that's glassed in or embedded underneath it. 

I appreciate any insight anyone can provide. I've spent a good bit of time lurking on these boards, and have been duly impressed with the amount of collective knowledge you all have.

Also, of course, I am open to hearing arguments for any of my target sizes, though that may open up a larger discussion, and I know it is a wide range of boats. Thanks, Joe
 

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Haro
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Joined: 11/7/14
Posts: 403

Joe, those are good questions.
I decided on fin keel C36 since it can point higher into the wind. I too wanted to get out of Golden Gate and Bay area and see what it was like sailing on California coast and for that you need at least a 36 foot sailing vessle.
I now have been to Half Moon Bay multiple times, free anchoring, and continue down to Santa Cruz and Monterey. Very much qualified for this trip.
My home port is Coyote Point Marina, San Mateo. If you would like to learn more about c36, I will be happy to show you what I have.
PM me. I have a website for her  http://mei1970.org/saillavie   visit this site.
Let us know what you decide.
Haro.
 

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