Am in the process of buying my first Amel - a 1995 Super Maramu. Have just had the survey results back and it prompts some questions.
(1) The surveyor found moisture readings of 20% in the below water line hull vs 5% above water line (Sovereign relative scale not actually 20% by content). This is high by by normal standards but something he has found in all 7 Amels he has surveyed. Anyone know why the moisture is so high? Is it an issue? Are Amels prone to osmosis and or blistering?
The epoxy coating on the hull which contains copper - am I correct in thinking this is more for antifouling than water proofing since the moisture readings are so high?
(2) There are only zincs on the rudder and propellor. It seems odd that there are no zincs on the cast iron keel. Is it common to add more zincs to the keel in these days of 'hot marinas".
(3) The keel/hull join is faired in and painted over with epoxy. With movement of the keel and electrolysis this paint has flaked off and the keel is slightly corroded. What is the norm for refinishing keels? Maybe flexible sealer at the hull join instead of filler and then zinc primer and antifouling on cast iron keel?
Are there any other things to watch out for on Amels? Are there any standard improvemtns owners make (e.g. I note there are no sacrificial UV strips on the sails).