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Good Morning Whaler Central Members-

First, thank you very much to the owner/moderator and membership of this forum for allowing me to join. I have been a reader for several months and have truly appreciated the information and expertise resident in this forum.

Second, thank you, members, for your patience and consideration my first post and first question.

I have wanted a Classic Whaler (specifically a Ribside) for most of my adult life; ever since early childhood days growing up on southwestern Michigan (1965-1975) where I experienced boating (on a Whaler) via a generous invitation from family friends on several occasions. Fate has never allowed me the opportunity to search for, find and purchase a Classic Whaler of my own. That fate may be changing in the near future as I am now financially capable and have come across an opportunity that might be either too great to pass up, or one that should definitely be avoided. Though I am a "newb", I understand that there are a great many variables that come into the equation of considering value and condition of a Classic. What I lack is the ability to discern the details that inform either a "buy" or "avoid" decision.

Background: I live in the Northwest, just purchased a home on a 250-acre lake, have a wife and 3 children. I am looking for a recreational BW for use on the lake as well as occasional salt (crabbing and fishing). Though the ownership and care for an "original" Classic Whaler is a venerable undertaking, I personally am probably not prepared for that level of ownership or pursuit and am more interested in a BW that I and the family can use without a lot of worry (in terms of keeping the boat perfectly original). I was raised on/around water. I am an accomplished woodworker (fine furniture), pretty good with my hands (mechanically), but not very knowledgeable on motors/motor-repair.

My Opportunity: So, I have found a 1972 Ribside about an hour from me. It has been in the Northwest for about 5 years, brought here from Texas. That is all I know (as of this point, anyway) about this boat. This example is fitted with twin Mercury 60's (model year 2000), has what appears to be a fiberglass c-console (no fine Teak), a low version of bow rail. It appears to have an above deck fuel tank mounted within the c-console. I have not seen this boat in person yet, but will do so within the next week. It has a new, double axel trailer.

My question, apologetically asked since it has probably been asked many times before: Given my lack of experience, if those members with experience on this forum were headed out to inspect a 1972 Ribside, what are the "main" or "primary" inspectable items, and inspection methods, that would inform a "buy" or "avoid" decision? Again, keeping in mind that I seek recreational use from the boat, vice a "museum quality" all-original example. I guess I am most concerned about hull and transom integrity, the ways that I (as a newb) can make such determination when I go to see it? I will likely not be able to weigh the boat (as one method of checking for soaked foam). I do not own a moisture meter. I thought of hiring a surveyor for $300 bucks, but if there are "bad signs" or "good signs" that I can see myself, I would be VERY appreciative of any advice (inspection points and methods) that might be shared here; things that would be obvious indicators. Thank you very much! Best Regards!