Looking at a FS, a question

I was looking for a reasonable small boat to get back into sailing with. I have never owned a sailboat, but sailed extensively years ago. But I would like to start smaller, yet own a quality boat. I happened to find a Cal 20 at a good price, which needed a bit of work. But no trailer and only a trolling motor, but I am considering it. Then I happened on a FS, 1984 model. Has a trailer in good shape three fairly good sails that look like they would do for a while, solid hull, looks complete, nothing soft, just needs paint and a few other minor things. $1000. I know that's a good price, but I would like to get something with the best resale in case I want to "move up" in a few years, or whenever.So after that long winded explanation, I wanted to know about the diffeences in year models and haven't found much online. Is there any reason to give added weight to a newer, versus older (60's-70's) FS, or are they basically the same if in similar condition? Anything else to consider, or some links to production info and history? There aren't any fleets in my area to go ask.Thanks in advance, I'm excited at the prospect of obtaining a FS.

TWFS2's picture

You will not find a better built, easier to sail boat. The boats are still being built and parts are easily available. You will have no problem reselling, if the boat is in good condition. You need to determine who built the boat. If the boat is built by Douglass, no problem. If it is a Customflex, there may be a problem. Some of the Customflex boats were not well built. Contact Flying Scot Inc. with the hull number. They can tell you who built it. What is the hull number? Make sure you take the handle of a screwdriver or something similar and tap on the deck and floor looking for soft spots.  There are no differences between the old boats and the new boats. What is important is how well the boat is maintained. I have hull #2 and it is no different from my other Scot, 5546, except that it weighs a bit more.  Look at www.flyingscot.com , they have a lot of information. Where do you live, there may be a fleet closer than you think.

I agree with TWFS2Please read the following: http://www.flyingscot.com/usedboat.html   

If the boat is in decent shape and not painted, but the gelcoat is chalky, think hard before you assume that paint is the right call.

You may be very surprised that the gelcoat will wetsand and buff up to a much better finish than you might think.

It may take some elbow grease, but paint tends to show scratches and chips more easily.

The link below is the boat when I found it.

http://www.nockamixonsailclub.org/content/i-found-flying-scot-2005

This is the current look. My boat was built in 1985.

http://www.fssa.com/index.php?q=gallery&g2_itemId=4065

Phil