I had a trip to Barnes of Brinkcraft in Wroxham today to Survey this Princess Motor Cruiser for Pre-purchase. They were extremely busy today being close to Easter Weekend and with at least 40 boats booked out for holidays tomorrow!!
I have surveyed dozens of these cruisers over the years, they are a very popular Motor Boats and the single engine versions work well on the Norfolk Broads. A good one sells for about 20K. I wont say what this one sold for!...but its a great time to buya boat, and prices are at a record low on the Broads and in the UK!
The 32 was launched in 1969 and over 2000 were built from then until 1980. The boat was based on the Senior 31 hull, like the Project 31, with a modified transom and a completely different superstructure.
The layout is also similar to the Project 31 in having a large cockpit and an open backed wheelhouse and an interior that is basically open plan.
There is a wide range of engine options, all outdrives but either single or twin, diesel petrol, and ranging from 75HP to 2 x 140HP. The smaller one like this example give a top speed of about 10 knots while a pair of 140,s could get you out of the water and up to 25 knots.
Surveyors comment: I inspect sterndrives as part of my Pre-Purchase Survey. They can be very costly to repair if they have not been looked after and regularly serviced. I check the oil levels, oil condition, seals, bushes, bellows, anodes etc. I use Paul Groom for estimates and he charges £500 for a basic service or £800 for a service with replacement bushes and seals…. This usually means taking the leg off.
First thing I always check is the seals.. if the oil on the dip stick is white and milky its a sign that the seals have gone and water is getting into the unit.. NOT GOOD!!
Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at: steventruss1@aol.com
I have surveyed dozens of these cruisers over the years, they are a very popular Motor Boats and the single engine versions work well on the Norfolk Broads. A good one sells for about 20K. I wont say what this one sold for!...but its a great time to buya boat, and prices are at a record low on the Broads and in the UK!
The 32 was launched in 1969 and over 2000 were built from then until 1980. The boat was based on the Senior 31 hull, like the Project 31, with a modified transom and a completely different superstructure.
The layout is also similar to the Project 31 in having a large cockpit and an open backed wheelhouse and an interior that is basically open plan.
There is a wide range of engine options, all outdrives but either single or twin, diesel petrol, and ranging from 75HP to 2 x 140HP. The smaller one like this example give a top speed of about 10 knots while a pair of 140,s could get you out of the water and up to 25 knots.
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| Surveyors comments generally for outdrives: Damaged paint surfaces to stern drives should be sanded down to bare metal and touched up with a suitable primer and top coat, this will help prevent corrosion. I recommend that all sacrificial anodes are checked regularly, failure to do so may cause serious corrosion problems. DO NOT ANTIFOUL ANODES. |
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| The owner of this single sterndrive version had fitted a large fixed rudder to help keep her in a straight line |
First thing I always check is the seals.. if the oil on the dip stick is white and milky its a sign that the seals have gone and water is getting into the unit.. NOT GOOD!!
Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at: steventruss1@aol.com
Hi Steve
ReplyDeleteDo you think the twin sterndrive version suitable for the Channel then French canals. I have never been through them. I assume the boat is seaworthy for the channel crossing. I have heard that a single screw is best for inland waterways. Also, if the sterndrives are shot/unserviceable are they hideous to repair or replace? I see quite a few of these bots for sale and would consider buying one. What do you think, would you buy one yourself (the acid test...I suppose)
Ian
Falmouth