1986 sailboat hunter 31 specification

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• Hunter 31 Sailboat

The Hunter 31 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

The Hunter 31, a B&R rigged masthead sloop, was designed by Cortland Steck and built in the USA by Hunter Marine.

Published Specification for the Hunter 31

Underwater Profile:  Fin keel & spade rudder

Hull Material:  GRP (Fibreglass)

Length Overall:  31'4" (9.6m)

Waterline Length:  26'3" (8.0m)

Beam:  10'11" (3.4m)

Draft:  5'3" (1.6m)

Rig Type:  B&R

Displacement:  9,700lb (4,400kg)

Ballast:  4,000lb (1,814kg)

Designer:  Cortland Steck

Builder:  Hunter Marine (USA)

Year First Built:  1983

Year Last Built:  1987

Published Design Ratios for the Hunter 31

Sail Area/Displacement Ratio :  16.2

Ballast/Displacement Ratio:  41.2

Displacement/Length Ratio: 239

Comfort Ratio:  22.4

Capsize Screening Formula:   2.1

Read more about these  Key Performance Indicators...

Summary Analysis of the Design Ratios for the Hunter 31

1. A Sail Area/Displacement Ratio of 16.2 suggests that the Hunter 31 will, in the right conditions, approach her maximum hull speed readily and satisfy the sailing performance expectations of most cruising sailors.

2. A Ballast/Displacement Ratio of 41.2 means that the Hunter 31 will stand up well to her canvas in a blow, helping her to power through the waves.

3. A Displacement/Length Ratio of 239, tells us the Hunter 31 is a moderate displacement cruiser, which means she'll carry all your cruising gear without it having a dramatic effect on her performance. Most of today's sailboats intended for offshore cruising fall into this displacement category.

4. Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio of 22.4 suggests that crew comfort of a Hunter 31 in a seaway is similar to what you would associate with the motion of a coastal cruiser with moderate stability, which is not the best of news for anyone prone to seasickness. 

5. The Capsize Screening Formula of 2.1 tells us that a Hunter 31 would not be as good a choice of sailboat for ocean passage-making, owing to the increased risk of capsize in strong winds and heavy seas when compared to a sailboat with a CSF of less than 2.0.

The Hunter 31 Sailboat: A Review

The Hunter 31 is a popular model from Hunter Marine, an American company that has been building quality sailboats since 1973. The Hunter 31 was first introduced in 1983 and was designed by Cortland Steck. It was produced until 1987, when it was replaced by the Hunter 33.5. In 2006, Hunter Marine launched a new version of the Hunter 31, which is sometimes referred to as the Hunter 31-2 or the Hunter 30/31. This boat was designed by Glenn Henderson and was in production until 2014. In this article, we will focus on the original Hunter 31, but we will also mention some of the differences and similarities with the newer model.

The Hunter 31 is a sloop-rigged cruiser that can accommodate up to six people in two cabins and a convertible salon. It has a fin keel, a spade rudder and a single wheel steering system. The boat has a self-tacking jib and an optional in-mast furling system for easy sail handling. The boat also has a Yanmar diesel engine with a low fuel capacity of 12 gallons.

The Hunter 31 is a boat that offers a lot of features and benefits for recreational sailors. Here are some of the main aspects of the boat that you might want to know more about:

Overview The Hunter 31 is a boat that combines performance, comfort and convenience. It is a boat that can sail well in light to moderate winds, thanks to its efficient hull shape and rig design. It is also a boat that can handle rougher conditions, thanks to its high stability and stiffness. The boat has a PHRF rating of 174, which means it is faster than some of its competitors in its size range.

The Hunter 31 is also a boat that offers plenty of space and amenities for living aboard. It has a beam of 10 feet and 11 inches, which gives it a roomy interior and a wide cockpit. It has two private cabins, one forward and one aft, each with a double berth and storage space. It has a large salon with a U-shaped dinette that can convert into another double berth, a navigation station with an electrical panel and instruments, and a galley with a two-burner stove, an oven, a sink, an icebox and ample counter space. It has a head with a marine toilet, a sink and a shower. It also has plenty of ventilation and natural light, thanks to its numerous ports, hatches and skylights.

The Hunter 31 is also a boat that is easy to operate and maintain. It has a simple and user-friendly layout, with all the controls and lines led back to the cockpit. It has an engine access panel under the companionway steps, which makes it easy to check and service the engine. It has a molded fiberglass hull and deck, which are durable and easy to clean.

Accommodation The Hunter 31 can sleep up to six people in two cabins and a convertible salon. The forward cabin has a V-shaped double berth with storage drawers underneath, shelves along the hull sides, an overhead hatch and two opening ports. The aft cabin has an athwartships double berth with storage lockers underneath, shelves along the hull sides, an opening port and an overhead hatch. The salon has a U-shaped dinette that can convert into another double berth with storage lockers underneath, shelves along the hull sides, four opening ports and two overhead hatches. The head is located on the port side of the salon, opposite the galley. It has a marine toilet with a holding tank, a sink with hot and cold water, a shower with a sump pump, storage cabinets, an opening port and an overhead hatch.

The accommodation layout of the newer Hunter 31-2 is slightly different from the original model. The forward cabin has more headroom and more storage space than the original model. The aft cabin has less headroom but more floor space than the original model. The salon has a straight settee on the starboard side instead of a navigation station, and a smaller dinette on the port side that can convert into a single berth. The head is located on the starboard side of the salon, opposite the galley. It has a separate shower stall with a folding door, which makes it more spacious and comfortable than the original model.

Hull and Deck The Hunter 31 has a solid fiberglass hull with a balsa core sandwich construction for the deck. The hull has a moderate displacement of 9,700 pounds and a ballast of 4,000 pounds. The hull has a fin keel with a draft of 5 feet and 3 inches, which gives it good performance and stability. The hull also has a spade rudder with a stainless steel shaft and bearings, which gives it good maneuverability and responsiveness. The deck of the Hunter 31 is designed for safety and convenience. It has a wide and flat foredeck with an anchor locker, an anchor roller and an electric windlass. It has stainless steel bow and stern pulpits, stanchions and lifelines. It has two dorade vents on the cabin top for ventilation. It has two large cockpit lockers for storage, one on each side of the wheel. It has a transom swim platform with a folding ladder and a shower. It also has a stern rail seat on each side of the cockpit, which provides extra seating and visibility.

The hull and deck of the newer Hunter 31-2 are similar to the original model, but with some improvements and modifications. The hull has a slightly longer waterline length of 28 feet, which increases its speed potential. The hull also has a shoal draft option of 3 feet and 11 inches, which makes it more suitable for shallow waters. The deck has a more modern and sleek appearance, with flush-mounted hatches, recessed handrails and an arch over the cockpit that supports the mainsheet traveler and the optional bimini top.

Mast and Rigging The Hunter 31 has a sloop rig with a deck-stepped mast and swept-back spreaders. The mast is made of anodized aluminum and has internal halyards and wiring. The mast height is 46 feet and 7 inches, which makes it suitable for most bridges and marinas. The mast also has an optional in-mast furling system for the mainsail, which makes it easier to reef and stow the sail.

The boat has a B&R rig, which is a fractional rig that eliminates the need for a backstay. This allows for a larger mainsail area and a smaller jib area, which improves the boat's performance in light winds and reduces its heeling tendency. The boat also has a self-tacking jib, which makes it easier to tack and trim the sail without changing sheets.

The boat has stainless steel standing rigging and low-stretch running rigging. The boat has two Lewmar self-tailing winches on the cabin top for halyards and reefing lines, and two Lewmar self-tailing winches on the coaming for jib sheets. The boat also has rope clutches, cam cleats, blocks, tracks and cars for adjusting the sails. The mast and rigging of the newer Hunter 31-2 are similar to the original model, but with some differences. The mast height is slightly lower at 46 feet, which reduces its windage and weight aloft. The mast also has an optional in-boom furling system for the mainsail, which gives it more sail shape control than the in-mast furling system. The boat also has an optional spinnaker or gennaker for downwind sailing.

Keel and Rudder The Hunter 31 has a fin keel which is bolted to the hull with stainless steel bolts and nuts. The keel draft is 5 feet and 3 inches, which gives it good performance upwind and downwind. The keel also provides stability and balance to the boat. The boat has a spade rudder with a stainless steel shaft and bearings. The rudder draft is 5 feet, which matches the keel draft. The rudder also provides maneuverability and control to the boat.

The keel and rudder of the newer Hunter 31-2 are similar to the original model, but with some options. The boat has a shoal draft option of 3 feet and 11 inches, which reduces its draft by more than one foot. The boat also has an optional wing keel or twin keels, which increase its stability at low speeds or when anchored.

The above text was drafted by sailboat-cruising.com using GPT-4 (OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model) as a research assistant to develop source material; we believe it to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Other sailboats in the Hunter range include:

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• By Jim Swartwout
• Updated: November 16, 2010

Hunter 31 368 cp

Hunter Marine introduced the Hunter 31 in 1983, and it remained in production for four years. My 1986 Hunter 31, which I named Aquarius, was 3 years old when I acquired it, and it had only been lightly used. I found it fun to sail. It had a real big-boat feel, with tight, cable-linked wheel steering, and it cruised comfortably at 5 to 6 knots. The high bow and unusually high freeboard for a 31-footer made it a dry sailing boat in the normal range of cruising conditions.

This model, in Hunter fashion, was fitted with a B&R rig, which, with its double swept-back spreaders, has a very racy look. The mainsail carries a lot of roach, so even with a 135-percent masthead jib, the boat usually had a slight but pleasing amount of weather helm. Aquarius didn’t do well off the wind, partly due to the swept spreaders, which limited the extent to which the mainsail could be eased. The answer, which is the best one anyway, was to tack downwind. Aquarius wanted a reef early, in maybe 15 knots of wind; the large main has two reef points, both of which I frequently used. I found it fairly easy to balance the sails on a reach but almost impossible to heave to in the conventional way. The boat was too eager to sail and could make 2 or 3 knots with the jib backed and the mainsheet free.

At 9,000 pounds, the Hunter 31 is light enough not to need a windlass; the ground tackle can be paid out and retrieved manually, procedures facilitated by the easily accessed anchor well and bow roller.

The side decks and handholds are more than adequate for safely going forward while under way, and the very large cockpit has ergonomically comfortable seating and more than adequate stowage in the lockers.

Power is supplied by a 16-horsepower Yanmar diesel. The engine compartment has surprisingly good access for a boat of its size, and the acoustic insulation is outstanding.

Belowdecks, the Hunter 31 has a dinette that seats four to starboard, and there’s a settee to port. Because the table is supported by a single leg near the boat’s centerline and the full length of the table outboard, it’s more stable than a typical single-pedestal table. It made a good navigating station in a seaway and could accommodate a full-size chart.

The “real” chart table is small and at the head of the quarter berth on the port side. This berth is tight, with very low overhead clearance and several protrusions to bang into. The V-berth forward is of a decent size.

The simple galley has an Origo non-pressurized alcohol stove with two burners and an oven. The reefer is a well-insulated icebox-a block of ice would easily last three to five days.

The head, forward on the starboard side, is simple but functional. Unfortunately, both the shower sump and the icebox drain into the bilge, which is very shallow. Also, because of the boat’s grid-pattern pan construction, when I sailed Aquarius in a seaway, water would flow to numerous inaccessible areas and not drain directly back to the bilge.

The Hunter 31 is a very practical boat for coastal cruising, and with its simple systems, it’s easy to maintain. I liked the lines of my boat, and seeing Aquarius at anchor from ashore or a dinghy always made me smile.

Jim Swartwout learned to sail on Chesapeake Bay, but his primary cruising area today extends from Santa Barbara to San Diego and includes the ports and islands in between.

Hunter 31 LOA 31′ 4″ (9.55 m.) LWL 26′ 3″ (8.00 m.) Beam 10′ 11″ (3.33 m.) Draft (shoal/deep) 4′ 0″/5′ 3″ (1.22/1.60 m.) Sail Area (100%) 458 sq. ft. (42.55 sq. m.) Ballast 3,500 lb. (1,587 kg.) Displacement 9,000 lb. (4,082 kg.) Ballast/D .39 D/L 222 SA/D 16.9 Water 35 gal. (133 l.) Fuel 18 gal. (68 l.) Engine 16-hp. Yanmar diesel Designer Cortland Steck and Hunter Design Group

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The Hunter 31 is a 31.33ft b&r designed by Cortland Steck and built in fiberglass by Hunter Marine (USA) between 1983 and 1987.

The Hunter 31 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally very small. There is a very short water supply range.

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1986 Hunter 31 Technical Specs

General data about hunter 31, engine and power specs, dimensions and wieght, detailed specifications, features and equipments, other equipments, interior specifications, engine and mechanical specs, electronical and electrical info.

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• Hunter provided us with the latest version of its 31 service repair manual
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• Owner's manual

Hunter 31 Owner's Manual

• page of 139 Go / 139

Table of Contents

• Troubleshooting
• Owner Information Card
• Customer Service / Warranty
• Limited One-Year Warranty
• Warranty Registration Form
• Glossary of Sailing Terms
• Explanation of Safety Precautions
• Safe Boating Tips
• Minimum Recommended Safety Equipment
• Life Jackets
• Fire Extinguishers
• Drugs and Boating
• Before Getting Underway
• While Underway
• Pre-Departure Checklist
• After Sailing Checklist
• Diesel Engine Fueling
• Diesel Engine Motiring
• Electrical System
• Starting Your Diesel Engine
• Cooking Stove
• Toilet Opening Hull Ports
• Water System Operation
• Waste Discharge
• Environmental Considerations
• Fuel and Oil Spillage
• Discharge and Disposal of Waste
• Exhaust Emissions
• Bottom Painting
• Epoxy Barrier Coat
• Transmission
• Stuffing Box
• Standard Alignment Diagram for Inboard Engines
• Maintenance
• Compasses Care
• Steering Care
• Electrical System Care
• Plumbing Systems Care
• Fuel Systems Care
• Cleaning Fiberglass Surfaces
• Cleaning Acrylic
• General Hardware Maintenance
• Fabric Care
• Repair of Polyurethane (Minwax) Floors
• Electrolysis and Galvanic Protection
• Teak Repairs
• Interior Furniture and Bulkhead Spray Finish Care
• SOP for Polyurethane (Minwax) Floors
• Storage/Winterization
• Routine Maintenance
• Lighting Storm Warning
• Standard Sailplan
• Furling Sailplan
• Dimensions, Capacities, Etc.
• Deck Hardware Layout
• Deck Hardware List
• Interior Layout
• Lifting Points Location
• Standard Running Rigging
• Furling Running Rigging
• Rope Vang Details (Standard)
• Rigid Vang (Furling Option)
• Jib Furling Lines Layout
• Mainsheet Purchase Layout
• Standard Mainsheet Purchase
• Mainsheet Purchase/Traveler Option
• Arch Installation
• Boom with Reefing Layout
• Reefing Instructions
• Lazyjack Sail Cover
• Lazyjack Installation Instructions
• Running Rigging Specifications
• B&R Rig Description
• Standing Rigging (Standard)
• Standing Rigging (Furling)
• Selden Lower Spreader Tip
• Selden Upper Spreader Tip
• Conventional Standing Rigging
• Furling Standing Rigging
• Standing Rigging Details
• Tuning the B&B Rig
• Optional Spinnaker Layout
• Engine System Operation
• Engine Compartment Layout
• Engine System Layout
• Stuffing Box Detail
• Fresh Water System Layout
• Waste System Layout
• Bilge Pump Layout
• Electric Bilge Pump Schematic
• Optional High Water Bilge Pump Schematic
• Sump Pump System Layout
• Thru-Hull Locations
• Thru-Deck Locations
• Typical Thru Deck/Thru Hull Fittings
• Fuel System Layout
• LPG Lines Layout
• LPG System Schematic
• Electrical System Contents
• Note to Consumer
• Power System Operation Procedures
• Optinal Battery Charging System Operation Procedures
• Basic Power Supply System Layout
• Main Electricl Panel
• 12 VDC Distribution Panel
• 120 VAC Distribution Panel
• Electrical System Panels
• AC Panel Schematic
• Isolation Transformer Schematic
• AC Wire Run Layout
• Wattage Demand for Electrical Equipment and Appliances 120 VAC
• Battery Charging System - Basic Operation Instructions
• Charging System Schematic/Battery Charger
• Inverter System - Basic Operation Instructions
• Optional Inverter System Layout
• Optional Inverter System Schematic
• DC Panel Schematic
• 12 VDC Lighting Layout
• 12 VDC Exterior Lights Layout
• Tank Monitor Schematic
• Typical Tank Monitor Schematic
• Optional TV/DVD Layout
• Optional Stereo Layout
• VHF Radio Wire Runs Layout
• Refrigeration System Layout
• Optional Windlass Operation
• Windlass Wiring Schematic
• Optional Autopilot Layout
• Automatic Fire Extinguisher Layout
• Automatic Fire Extinguisher Schematic
• Optional Dynaplate Ground Location
• Master Electrical Amperage Data
• Master Electrical Wiring/Cable Data
• 120 VAC System Troubleshooting Guide
• Steering Pedestal
• Rudder and Stock Details
• Emergency Tiller Arm
• Basic Anchoring Diagram

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Related manuals for hunter 31, summary of contents for hunter 31.

• Page 1 HUNTER OWNER’S MANUAL TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION PAGE  Warranty Registration Form………………………………………  Hunter Warranty………………………………………….…………  Brief History………………………………………………………….  Glossary of Sailing Terms….………………………………………  Explanation of Symbols and Labels……………………………… GENERAL HANDLING AND OPERATION  Safe Boating Tips………………………………………………….. 10-11  Pre-Departure Checklist……………………………………………...
• Page 2 HUNTER OWNER’S MANUAL TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D) PAGE DESCRIPTION OF MODEL  Profile with Rig and Sail Dimensions……………………………..  Dimensions, Capacities, etc……………………………………….  Deck Plan and Hardware…………………………………………..  Deck Hardware Parts Listing………………………………………  Accommodation Plan………………………………………………. 40A-40C  Dinette Table Operation……………………………………………...
• Page 3 HUNTER OWNER’S MANUAL TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D) EQUIPMENT MANUALS AND INFORMATION  Engine Manual  Knotmeter and Depthsouder  VHF Radio (except where not provided)  Compass Information  Stereo Manual  Furling System Manual  Marine Rigging Guide  Winch Maintenance Guide ...

Page 4: Owner Information Card

• Page 5 Hunter are not covered by this limited warranty. The obligation of Hunter under this limited warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of hulls that it determines to be structurally defective. This is your sole and exclusive remedy.
• Page 6 Paint, window glass, Gelcoat, upholstery damage, plastic finishes, engines, engine parts, bilge pumps, stoves, blowers, pressure water pumps, propellers, shafts, rudders, controls, instruments, keels and equipment not manufactured by HUNTER. Any warranty made by the manufacturer of such items will be, if possible, given on to the first use purchaser.

Page 7: Warranty Registration Form

• Page 8 Dear Mr. Smith, Thank you for providing written notice of transfer of ownership. We are pleased you have se- lected a Hunter sailboat and we will make every effort to assure Hunter ownership will be a satisfying experience for you.
• Page 9 9) Warranty claims must be sent in duplicate and must contain the complete hull number and a brief description of work performed. Labor, parts, materials, and haul-outs must be listed separately. Claims for warranty must be sent to Hunter Marine not more than thirty (30) days after completion of work, or they may not be honored. PAGE 2E...
• Page 10 Marine, Mainship Motor Yachts, and Champlain. Luhrs Fishing Boats with its Alura divi- sion, as well as Hunter Marine, which The sea skiff is a class of boat that has exclusively manufactures sailboats. been very popular, owing to its seawor- thiness.
• Page 11 GLOSSARY OF SAILING TERMS Bend: 1, to secure a sail to a spar Chine: the line where the bottom of before hoisting; 2, to moor a boat; 3, the hull meets the side at an angle. Aback: describes a sail when the wind a sleeping place on board.
• Page 12 GLOSSARY OF SAILING TERMS Guard rail: a metal rail fitted around Kicking strap: a line used to pull the (rate UK); 3, UK: the distance a boat is carried by a current in a given time. the boat to prevent the crew falling boom down, to keep it horizontal, par- Drogue: a sea anchor put over the overboard.
• Page 13 GLOSSARY OF SAILING TERMS Member: a part of the skeleton of the Position line/ Line of position: a line used in the setting and trimming of hull, such as a stringer laminated into drawn on a chart, as a result of taking sails.
• Page 14 GLOSSARY OF SAILING TERMS Stall: a sail stalls when the airflow Terminal fitting: fitting at the end of a Waterline length (WL): the length of wire rope by which a shroud or stay a boat from stem to stern at the water- over it breaks up, causing the boat to can be attached to the mast, a tang or line.
• Page 15 EXPLANATION OF SAFETY PRECAUTIONS This manual contains safety precautions that must be observed when operating or servicing your boat. Review and understand these instructions. Denotes an extreme intrinsic hazard exists which would result in high probability of death or irreparable injury if proper precautions are not taken Denotes a hazard exists which can result in injury or death if proper precautions are not taken...

Page 16: Safe Boating Tips

• Page 17 SAFE BOATINGTIPS FLARES Most boats operating on coastal waters are required to carry approved visual distress signals, therefore check with FIRE/EXPLOSION HAZARD; Pyro- your local authorities as to which types technic signaling devices can cause are required. injury and property damage if not handled properly.

Page 18: Float Plan

• Page 19 FLOAT PLAN 1. Name of person reporting and telephone number: 2. Description of boat NAME TYPE MAKE LENGTH REGISTRATION# HULL COLOR STRIPE COLOR DECK COLOR OTHER DISTINGUISHING MARKS 3. Number of Persons aboard NAME PHONE # ADDRESS NAME PHONE # ADDRESS NAME PHONE #...

Page 20: After Sailing Check List

• Page 21 ANCHORING Your Hunter comes with an on deck an- mean low tide depths and other local chor well and a Danforth type anchor as conditions when anchoring, as well as standard equipment.

Page 22: Diesel Engine

Page 23: electrical system.

• Page 24 SAFE BOATING TIPS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (continued) To minimize shock hazard, connect and When leaving port, disconnect the dock- disconnect cable as follows: side power cord and turn the main DC breaker on. This allows you to use the 1. Turn off the boat’s shore power con- ship’s lights and other equipment de- nection before connecting or discon- signed to operate on direct current.
• Page 25 SAFE BOATING TIPS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (continued) Hunter Marine recommends that on all the boat if it is unattended). Completely boats with either/both a house and start depleting a batteries internal charge can drastically shorten its life span. This in- battery, the cables be disconnected dur- ing winter storage or any time the boat cludes gel cell and glass mat batteries.

Page 26: Toilet Opening Hull Ports

Page 27: waste discharge, page 28: environmental considerations.

• Page 29 (gloves, safety glasses,respiration,etc) If an epoxy barrier coat is applied to a Hunter vessel, it must be registered with the Warranty Department prior to application of the product. If the dealer ap- plies bottom paint only, sanding will not be allowed and the no sanding system must be used.

Page 30: Stuffing Box

Page 32: steering systems, page 33: plumbing systems, page 34: sail care, page 35: fabric care, page 36: electrolysis and galvanic protection.

• Page 37 INTERIOR FURNITURE & BULKHEAD SPRAY FINISH TEAK CARE manufactured by “Chemcraft International Teak wood is a high quality, extremely dura- ble wood with a high oil content. In order to Inc”. This material will seal and protect the help you protect the original beauty of your wood from moisture and weathering.

Page 38: Storage/Winterization

• Page 39 STORAGE/WINTERIZATION until antifreeze solution comes out charge battery near any open exhaust stack or until bucket is flame or a confined area. empty. Attach the raw water pickup CAUTION: Wear safety goggles and rubber gloves to protect your hose to the raw water pump. Tighten all clamps.
• Page 40 STORAGE/WINTERIZATION engine oil into the intake pipe or Primary choices for this list are items manifold while engine is turning. relating to the safety and security of DO NOT USE the starter to turn en- the unattended craft: turning off fuel gine or serious engine damage may valves, properly setting electrical result.
• Page 41 CE CERTIFIED Your Hunter has been manufactured in the United States and has been certified by the IMCI to be in compliance with the relevant parts of the Recreational Craft Directive 94/25/EC from the European Parliament. The CE mark means your craft meets or ex- ceeds all current International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards and di- rectives in effect at time of manufacture.

Page 45: Dimensions, Capacities, Etc

Page 47: deck hardware list.

• Page 66 H31 B&R RIG DESCRIPTION The B&R rig, utilized on the Hunter 31, rigging (like backstay adjusters). This eliminates the need for a backstay to design should prove more reliable than allow for a more efficient mainsail a rig with adjustable backstays or run- shape.

Page 71: Standing Rigging

• Page 72 HUNTER 31 FURLING STANDING RIGGING ITEM WIRE SIZE FITTINGS OVERALL LENGTH 10ft 7 7/8" 3250 mm 1/4" 6 mm T-TERMINAL 308-324 FORK 308-417 10ft 6 3/4" 3220 mm 1/4" 6 mm EYE 308-362 EYE 308-362 10ft 1/2" 3060 mm 5/32"...
• Page 74 On the Hunter 31 it is necessary to go do much to flatten the sail as in a up the mast in a bosun’s chair to tighten standard rig.
• Page 75 TUNING THE H31 B&R RIG the mast and see if it is straight (rather do. Keep in mind it is also possible to than bent from side to side). If not then have something too tight such as a adjust the lowers (D1) until it is. diagonal shroud.
• Page 95 NOTE TO CONSUMER THE FOLLOWING PAGES PROVIDE DETAILED INFORMATION, SCHEMATICS ETC. PERTAINING TO THE H31 STANDARD ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS AS WELL AS THE OPTIONAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS. READ THE DRAWING TITLE IN THE TITLE BLOCK TO BE SURE YOU ARE REFERRING TO THE CORRECT SYSTEM FOR YOUR MODEL.
• Page 99 12 V.D.C. DISTRIBUTION PANEL BREAKER DESCRIPTION PANEL LIGHTS ILLUMINATES BOTH A.C. & D.C. SIDES OF THIS PANEL FOR NIGHT USE CABIN LIGHTS SUPPLIES POWER TO ALL INTERIOR LIGHTS AND COCKPIT LIGHT L. P. GAS SUPPLIES POWER TO L.P. GAS SWITCH AT GALLEY. SEE "L.P. GAS MANUAL" FOR OPER. & SAFETY INST. REFRIGERATOR SUPPLIES POWER TO REF.
• Page 100 120V.A.C. DISTRIBUTION PANEL (230 OVERSEAS MODELS) BREAKERS DESCRIPTION "LINE 1" SIDE OF A.C. PANEL A.C. MAIN PROVIDES A.C. VOLTAGE TO THIS SIDE OF PANEL WHEN SHORE POWER CORD #1 IS CONNECTED TO OUTLET AT DOCKSIDE POWER SUPPLY. OUTLETS PROVIDES A.C. POWER TO THE BOAT'S OUTLETS. MICROWAVE SUPPLIES POWER TO OUTLET BEHIND MICRO.
• Page 129 MASTER ELECTRICAL AMPERAGE DATA 12V.D.C. SYSTEM CIRCUIT/BREAKER AMPERAGE D.C. MAIN 50amp PANEL LIGHTS 5amp CABIN LIGHTS 20amp COURTESY LIGHTS 10amp TANK INDICATOR 5amp WATER PRESSURE 10amp SHOWER SUMP 10amp MACERATOR 20amp FREEZER 15amp STEREO 10amp TV/DVD 10amp REFRIGERATION 15amp L.P. GAS 5amp WINDLASS (SWITCH) 5amp...
• Page 130 MASTER ELECTRICAL WIRING/CABLE DATA DESCRIPTION WIRE SIZE WIRE COLOR LPG SWITCH/POWER 16 gauge ORANGE/RED TANK DISPLAY 16 gauge RED/ORANGE FUEL SENDER 16 gauge PINK,ORANGE/WHITE NEGATIVE 16 gauge YELLOW FWD WATER SENDER 16 gauge ORANGE/BLUE, PINK/BLACK NEGATIVE 16 gauge YELLOW WATER PUMP 12 gauge BROWN NEGATIVE...
• Page 131 120V.A.C. SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE (230V. OVERSEAS MODELS) COMPONENT SYMPTOM POSSIBLE SOLUTION/S SHORE POWER NO POWER TO PANEL SEE "POWER SYSTEM OPERATIONS" PAGE 63A-2 CHECK DOCKSIDE BREAKER AND/OR BREAKER #1 LOCATED IN AFT CABIN OR COCKPIT LOCKER. CHECK "RESETS" ON (OPT.)INVERTER (SEE "INVERTER MAN.") OUTLETS NO POWER SEE "POWER SYSTEM OPERATIONS"...
• Page 132 12V.D.C. SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE TO POWER D.C. PANEL: TURN ON "D.C. MAIN" BREAKER ON BATTERY SWITCH PANEL, IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO TURN THIS IS TO POWER PANEL ON THE HOUSE BATTERY SWITCH TO THE "ON" POSITION TO SUPPLY POWER TO D.C. PANEL FOR CHARGING, SEE IF NO POWER TO PANEL: CHECK BATTERY CONNECTIONS IF NECESSARY.
• Page 133 SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE CONT: COMPONENT SYMPTOM POSSIBLE SOLUTION/S WINDLASS UP/DOWN CONTROLS DON'T OPERATE SEE "TO POWER PANEL" PREV. PAGE WINDLASS WINDLASS SWITCH AT WINDLASS RESET PANEL ON? IS RESET TRIPPED? INSTRUMENTS REPEATERS DON'T OPERATE SEE "TO POWER PANEL" PREV. PAGE DO TRANSDUCERS NEED CLEANING? SEE INSTRUMENTS MANUAL VHF RADIO...

Page 138: Waste System

Rename the bookmark, delete bookmark, delete from my manuals, upload manual.

T he Hunter 31 can easily be added to the list of "everyman sailboats" because of its relatively affordable price, the sheer number of hulls currently on the used boat market and the sloop's overall versatility as both daysailer and family cruiser.

First impressions

Would-be boat owners looking for a bargain are likely to gravitate to the Hunter 31, which has a racy look with masthead rig and swept spreaders, and plenty of room above and below deck for friends to come aboard. The Hunter 31 doesn't look like a slow-moving tub or a traditional sloop from the 1960s or 1970s with overhangs and varnish-begging brightwork. Instead, it has the more contemporary lines found on boats made during the 1980s, with generous freeboard, a stainless steel destroyer wheel, tinted hatch covers, bow and stern pulpits, reverse transom and an aluminum toerail track similar to those pioneered by C&C. The deck is uncluttered given the overall length of the boat, although the sheer isn't the most elegant ever drawn.

The 31 was designed by Cortland Steck, who grew up racing dinghies from age 7 and later sailed larger boats offshore. In 1979, he graduated from the Westlawn School of Yacht Design and five years later established Cortland Steck Yacht Design. Steck has amassed more than 5,000 designs to his credit, including the Hunter 20, 34, 40 Legend, Starwind 223 and Hunter 25.5.

Construction

Many owners agree the Hunter 31 wasn't built with the notion that it would still be sailing far into the next century. Clearly not as rugged as some production boats, with the exception of its rock-solid hull, the overall build quality is the target of frequent criticism by owners. Complaints range from substandard winches to delamination on portions of the balsa-cored deck.

The hull was made of hand-laid, pre-cut fiberglass to ensure consistency. Hunter bonded a full-length internal frame and stringer system of unidirectional fiberglass directly to the hull to increase stiffness without adding undue weight. The chainplates were fastened to this framing system and led upward through the deck just outside the coachroof, creating more interior space and minimizing deck clutter. This design distributed the load to the frame and stringer system.

The keel is cast iron so rust will always be a factor where it's bolted to the hull. The rust tends to form on the crack where the metal meets the fiberglass. Although this joinery is covered with a thin layer of gelcoat at the factory, once the material wears away, cracks develop and a rust line becomes visible. Maintenance of this area is essential by carefully grinding and cleaning the boat after haul out, then recoating.

What to look for

Delamination may be found beneath the mast and compression post along with a weakened crossmember. Look for discoloration or mold.

The shower sump and icebox drain into the bilge, which is shallow and compartmentalized, an arrangement that allows stagnant water to become trapped and inaccessible. Owners report this can cause rotting of the cabin sole.

The bilge area under the engine can also collect water from rain entering through the companionway. This water can drain into the main bilge area, adding to what is already accumulated from the sump and icebox.

Leaks under the steering pedestal and at the cabin windows are common. These seals should be cleaned and recaulked. Some owners have replaced the fuel tank, claiming it's flimsy. As one owner wrote in an online forum, "I replaced that cheap plastic, sorry excuse for a fuel tank." Another sailor resorted to using a portable fuel tank rather than replace the original.

The fuel filter gauge is inside the starboard storage locker, where it is difficult to access or see. The integrated water and waste tanks are sensibly molded into the hull, but their screwed-down lids should be removed and resealed after 20 years to keep leaks and odors in check.

Prospective buyers should examine the cable-linked steering for wear.

The masthead rig features swept spreaders. The deck is uncluttered, except for lifelines, genoa track and shrouds, the latter attached nearer the coachroof than to the outside rail. The shroud placement allows crew to move more easily fore and aft for sail changes or foredeck work. The lifeline stanchions are mounted outboard, creating additional room on deck. The T-shaped cockpit is somewhat cramped due to the pedestal steering column, wheel and engine controls. The cockpit lockers are large enough to stow all sails and other equipment.

There's a big-boat feel once you go below. Headroom is 6 feet 3 inches in the spacious saloon, but the V-berth is tight for two adults. The head with sink and toilet is just outside the V-berth and fitted with a privacy door.

The overall layout is social, with a U-shaped galley to starboard that allows the cook to converse or otherwise take part in the goings on. The galley has a four-burner stove, two-basin sink and an icebox. It is abutted by a dinette that seats four.

The port side features a settee and full navigation station with chart table and light. The aft cabin is roomy. Teak paneling warms the saloon and other bulkheads. Plentiful windows provide light and cross ventilation. The boat carries 35 gallons of water.

The hulls made from 1983 to 1985 were fitted with a 13-horsepower, freshwater-cooled, Yanmar diesel. Later boats were beefed up with a 16-horsepower engine. Both versions proved reliable, but underpowered when motoring to windward or in a choppy sea. Engine power has been a source of owner complaints. Panels allow for good engine access. The boat carries 18 gallons of fuel.

One owner praised the 13-horsepower engine, noting Yanmar suggested running it full bore and then backing off 10% to find the ideal rpm. "Mine runs like a top and is happy at 3,000 rpm," he said. "I can make 6.1 knots in a calm to slight chop, running at 2,900."

The Hunter 31 gets good reviews for its sailing abilities. Although the light-displacement sloop can be tender in a gusty wind, overall it's a forgiving boat with a balanced helm. Owners contend it's a no-brainer to sail and a joy to singlehand.

Opinions vary about the boat's proclivities when sailing downwind because the puffed-out mainsail hits the swept-back spreaders and doesn't always fill properly.

A few Hunter 31 skippers advocated using instead a combination of genoa and spinnaker when possible.

The boat performs nicely on its mainsail, but once the wind exceeds 20 knots, one or two reefs are highly advised. It tracks admirably once in the groove but can be slow to heel and may round up in a heavy gust. A broad reach is not its fastest point of sail.

Generally, owners find little fault with the boat's sailing characteristics. As one put it, "More than once I looked like a sailing genius because the boat handles so well."

Although the original sales brochure described the Hunter 31 as a bluewater boat, it seems more suited as a coastal cruiser. Given that a used Hunter 31 can be purchased on average for $20,000, one in good condition with upgrades already installed would be a bargain.

Bottom line: For not much more than the price of a used car, you can have a heck of a lot of fun on this boat.

PRICE: The price for a used Hunter 31 ranges from nearly $35,000 for a model in excellent condition with upgrades, to $16,400 for a boat in poor condition. Most 31s are priced around $20,000.

DESIGN QUALITY: Designed by Cortland Steck, the masthead sloop features a choice of deep or shoal-draft keel, fiberglass hull, spade rudder and has a pleasing overall length-to-width ratio of 3-to-1.

CONSTRUCTION QUALITY: The Hunter 31 was built from 1983 to 1987 in Alachua, Florida, by Hunter Marine USA. Complaints have been voiced about undersized winches, a weak mainsheet traveler and poor craftsmanship in some areas below deck. As one owner put it, "Details were compromised due to pricing."

USER-FRIENDLINESS: Owners seem to agree the Hunter 31 is an easy boat to sail, simple to rig, somewhat tender but able to point high in a moderate breeze. By all accounts, it's made to singlehand. Mast height from the water is 47 feet 4 inches, enabling the boat to fit under most fixed highway bridges.

SAFETY: The Hunter 31 is often referred to as high and dry, mostly due to its generous freeboard. However, owners claim it gets pushed around by heavy seas, and its underpowered diesel leaves much to be desired. Grab rails on the coachroof provide a modicum of safety on deck.

TYPICAL CONDITION : The boats vary in condition. If maintenance has been kept up, the boat may be a good value, particularly if equipment upgrades were also made. Potential buyers should keep in mind the youngest 31 is now 27 years old and could be showing its age.

REFITTING: Common upgrades include adding a wind speed indicator and gauges for water, fuel and holding tank. Installing a beefier mainsheet traveler; larger winches and anchor roller are typical improvements.

SUPPORT: In 2012, Morgan Industries, parent company of Hunter Marine, filed for bankruptcy and was renamed Marlow-Hunter, which can be reached at www.marlow-hunter.com . For retail parts, contact www.shop.hunterowners.com . The Hunter Owners' Association, www.hunterowners.com is also a resource of support and information.

AVAILABILITY: Dozens of Hunter 31s are currently on the market, mostly listed. In early 2014, a project boat was being offered at $10,000 and eBay was auctioning a 1984 model for $6,900.

INVESTMENT AND RESALE: Because of its low-price on the used boat market, there is only moderate resale value.

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• Sailboat Guide

1986 Hunter 31

• Description

Seller's Description

Ready to live aboard! 1986 Hunter 31 with 35HP transom mount remote outboard w/ 12A Alternator. Inboard 16hp Yanmar 2GM20F needs rebuil (turns over, but won’t start)t. Comes with 15hp Mariner 2 stroke Outboard and 11ft West Marine Rigid bottom tender. * Fridge/Freezer (12v/110v) *Hot Water Heater (12v/110) *8A Battery Charger *3 Burner Alcohol Stove w/ Oven *Garmin GPS *1 Onboard VHF 2 Handheld VHFs *Dinghy Davits *125ft Anchor Chain Danforth Anchor *Electric Toilet *30 Gallon Holding Tank *30 Gallon Fresh Water Tank *Bilge Pump *200w Solar w Charge Controller

Spacious interior is in good condition. Needs Sails. Bought 5 months ago from a local marina. It is currently anchored on the Ashley River in Downtown Charleston in front of Ashley Marina. Both outboards run strong. Clean title. Cash Only.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Shoal draft: 4.0’/1.22m Disp. (Shoal draft): 9900 lbs/4494 kg

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