What are the most important things to look at when buying a used OVNI from the mid-eighties? I am thinking of damages, corrosion and wear. Are there other things to keep in mind as well?
- Hull & Structure (Aluminium-specific)
- Electrolytic / galvanic corrosion – especially around:
- Through-hulls
- Keel / centreboard pivots and bearings
- Rudder stocks and skeg
- Engine beds and saildrive apertures (if fitted)
- Pitting under paint or insulation – water trapped behind foam or lining can hide corrosion.
- Welds and frames – look for cracking around high-load areas (chainplates, keel box, mast step).
- Keel / Centreboard System
- Condition of the lifting mechanism, bearings, pin, and bushings.
- Signs of wear or elongation in the keel box.
- Corrosion of the board itself
- Rig & Chainplates
- Original aluminium chainplates can suffer crevice corrosion where they pass through the deck.
- Standing rigging age
- Engine & Systems
- Engine beds bonded to aluminium (check isolation).
- Fuel and water tanks (often aluminium) for internal corrosion.
- Insulation & Condensation
- Early foam insulation can absorb moisture and sit against bare aluminium → long-term corrosion risk.
- Check behind lining, especially in bilges and lockers.
- Modifications
- Quality of welding, added fittings, and isolation from stainless fasteners is critical.
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