T&T: need purchase advice for 1973 Gulfstar 36 aft cabin trawler

[bob Austin]

The Gulfstar 36 is an excellent coastal trawler.  It is a very easily driven
hull (also available in a sailing rig).  One question you need to ask is do
you want a single or twin engines. There are three 1973's in your price range.
Two have twin Perkins 4 236 85 hp and one has a single 120 Ford 6 cyl.  The
single will probably be slightly more effecient.  It will also be a little
cheaper to maintain--with a single engine.    Look for water stain around the
windows and door.  Check for deck softness--especially around hatches and
cleats/fittings etc.  Water intrusion can cause dry rot in the deck core.

Also consider what electronics, air conditioning, generator etc and what
condition each unit is on the boat.  Consider what layout you like the best
also.  Some have a double bunk aft centerline--others have singles--different
salon layouts etc.

Look for blistering--some of these boats had this.  Generally reasonably built
US hulls.  They seem to be aging well.  a 33 year old boat--look at the fuel
tanks--Some Gulf Stars had fiberglass hulls--this would be a plus if the tanks
are glass. (but don't use soy diesel). lf the boat has not been rewired, then
this may be necessary.

Sometimes the more expensive boats which have been upgraded are worth the
extra costs.

But any of these boats will make you a nice trawler at a good price.

Bob Austin