1983 H14 with trailer for $550 -- good deal or not?

Hi -- I just signed on this forum today and have been reading though some of the previous posts, eg is it a "good deal for the price", 1984 "red glue seam boats", and passenger weight issues with an H14 vs. H16.

So here's the deal. There is a 1983 H14 w/ trailer on Craigslist for $550. The people are selling their lake house and all their toys. The boat has been lightly used over the years and in pretty decent shape. No hull/fiberglass issues and sail is faded but good. A little TLC and new trampoline will put it in fine shape. The trailer is in good shape, some lite rust, bearings are good but will need new tires.

I weigh 240 lbs and would like to take at least one of my kids (80-120 lbs) along while sailing. I also plan on letting them learn how to sail themselves. We only have access to inland lakes around here. I learned on a Hobie when I was a teenager and I've been missing the experience ever since. I want my children to have the same rush I've had over the years.

So is $550 a "good deal"? Do I/we weigh too much for an H14? Is there a notable difference between 1983 and 1984+ boats?

I'm thinking I can always buy the H14 and upgrade to a larger boat once everyone gets hooked on cats.

Should I pull the trigger?

thanks much

-d

-d,

Detroit, Auburn, Missouri, or...?

IMHO you need to look for a 16. Performance of the 14 drops off once the crew weight gets past 150-165 pounds. If you add a, or the, youngsters you'll be riding WAY low in the water, it's also a weight sensitive boat (read balance). If you "learned already" I wouldn't worry too much about the new learning curve, it'll come back to you quickly. Keep reading, there's ways to safely de-power the 16 while you re-learn and share the experience with your kids. Again, I'd bet once you get your sea legs back you'll quickly be disappointed in the 14's performance. Besides at 240 you can solo a 16, so why not?

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