Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 40.5 by Jim

Year built 1995  
Location of boat Kentucky Lake, Grand Rivers, KY  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1995  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, we think the boat offers excellent features and provides a great deal of enjoyment for our entire family. This is a lot of boat for a very reasonable price.  
Gear that's been added Second bank of batteries, second anchor (35 lb. Delta and rode), ST 7000 Autopilot, Max-prop blade feathering prop, North 155 Genoa, generator, 2 reversible air-conditioning units, second VHF, Heart 1500 watt inverter-charger, battery isolator, Heart Control Panel, ST 50 wind machine, bimini, whisker pole and topping lift, stereo CD player, TV antenna, electric winch, windlass, microwave, carbon monoxide detector.  
Structural or complex improvements No  
The boat's best features Sailing performance in all conditions, below deck layout, ease of handling and aft cabin comfort.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Small leak thru mast step, large leak in aft cabin over bunk during heavy rainfall thru the cockpit console (bimini or console cover will reduce the problem), additional water leak around diesel fuel intake, dealer removed and resealed fixed port on cabin that leaked, lifeline stanchions collected internal condensation and burst during winter freezes (dealer suggests drilling drain holes with these Hunter stanchions).  
Sailing characterisitcs The boat handles all wind conditions and performs well in all instances. Stands up well in heavy wind with minimal weather helm.  
Motoring characterisitcs The motor is an excellent choice for a boat of this displacement. Performs at 6.5 knots speed 2300 to 2500 RPM. No viberation...3 blade prop stops on a dime and provides minimal drag under sail.  
Liveability The layout is comfortable and spacious. Could have eliminated the second head in lieu of more space in V-berth.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Excellent. They have responded quickly the onetime I contacted them.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The Kentucky Lake Sails, Inc. personnel are greatBrenda and Marty Colburn are a  
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