What to look for when buying a Mirror Dinghy?

Submitted by Petra005 on Tue, 08/27/2024 - 08:41

Forums:

Hello, I like to have some buyers advice.

I have seen a Mirror Dinghy to buy.
Before I take a look, I like to know what to look for.

What are the weak points?
Which parts wear out quickly?
What is damaged most quickly?

And so on.

Love to hear tips from you all.
Thank you.

PuffinInTegel's picture

PuffinInTegel

Sun, 09/01/2024 - 13:01

Welcome to the forum!
If you are buying a wooden Mirror dinghy, your knuckles or a solid object like a screwdriver handle, in conjunction with your ears and eyes, are the most important inspection tools. Knock on all parts of the hull, keeping the hits at quite close spacing. This should result in a clear sharp knocking sound. A dull thud would indicate rot under the paint. Dark stains under clear varnish are also signs of potential rot.
The rigs usually outlive the wooden boats, but of course all running rigging (sheets and halyards) are subject to wear.
The gaff spar of some boats have been known to come apart at the seam, but htis can be easily repaired.
Hold your phone or camera into the inspection hatches and take some "interior photos" to check the condition inside the floatation tanks. They should be dry and clean. Repaired sections of the hull would also be visible e.g. as in https://mirrordiscussforum.org/Drupal_02/comment/1285#comment-1285.
Martin Egan of the UK Class association has also written a useful article on buying used Mirrors. See https://www.ukmirrorsailing.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=articl... .
I hope you find a good boat and let me know whether to register it on the Roll Call (if it's not already registered).
Cheers;
Gernot H.