Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 20 by Patrick Bloem

Year built 1983  
Location of boat East Grand Rapids, Mi  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1997  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Probably, I have since found one in cherry condition, but I can't complain with mine.  
Gear that's been added Jensen pull out stereo  
Structural or complex improvements None other than adding an electrical locker attached to the starboard bulkhead dividing the fore of the boat w/the main cabin. I would like to rig a better way to operate the center board from the cockpit by removing the winch and replacing w/a multi purchase system that could be operated by hand via just one line  
The boat's best features Very easy sailing. I frequently solo this boat and it is very easy. I have relocted the jib sheet blocks and cam cleats aft so that they are in easy reach of the tiller.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Very small leak. I assume it is from the bushings in the centerboard. Maybe 1 gallon/week. Not a very water tight forward hatch, might add an automotive type gasket to the lip on the hatch opening to remedy.  
Sailing characterisitcs Very prdictable sailing. Have had in very heavy weather (20-30) and had alot of weather helm. could use a back stay tensioner by adding a split yoke from the stern.  
Motoring characterisitcs Motors well w/4.5 HP Mercury. If I can tighten the yoke of the motor to maintain the OB in a straight line the tiller is very effective. Added a Davis tiller tamer  
Liveability Maybe a weekender, but not a live aboard. Will try weekending summer of 1999 in upper lake Huron.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) none  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any bought from private party  
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