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Sabre’s Storied 50-year History and Unwavering Success

May 1, 2020 | Magazine , News , Sabre Yachts | 0 comments

Sabre Yachts officially got its start in 1970 building small production sailboats in Southeastern Maine. Before that time, founder Roger Hewson was working in his family’s construction company when he decided to design and build his first boat: a wide, blunt-nosed sailing scow that he named for its length and impressive speed in cutting through the water—like a Sabre. While attending McGill University Roger met a young lady named Charlotte, fell in-love and eventually they would marry. Charlotte’s family happened to have a large property in Raymond, Maine where they operated a popular girls summer camp. Although 25 miles from the nearest ocean put-in at Casco Bay, the couple decided to build Sabre Yachts from this location.

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Sabre 30 Owner's Manual

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  • Page 1 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual   Dear Sabre Owner: We are pleased to enclose a copy of our new Sabre Owners Manual for your boat.  We have strived to make it the finest and most complete in the industry, and trust that you will find it beneficial. There is a table of contents in the front of the manual which identifies each section with two numbers which are separated by a colon.  The first number refers to the general section; the second alphabetically at the end of the manual. Illustrations are referred to by an illustration number (e.g. I­14), and are located in the back of the manual.  An Illustrations Index follows the table of contents. Certain diagrams refer only to a particular group of boats.  These illustrations are identified by the hull numbers of those boats.  Also, information in the text, illustrations, and diagrams may refer to optional equipment not found on your boat. Included in the manual are two copies of an Annual Safety Maintenance Check List.   One is bound into the manual, the other is loose in order that copies can be made.   It is very important that this maintenance inspection be carried out each year to assure the ongoing safety of your boat. We have strived to provide accurate information on your boat.  However, all diagrams, dimensions, and data must be considered approximate on due to variations from boat to boat, and normal construction tolerances.  The actual details of your boat should be confirmed by direct inspection or measurement. It is our sincere hope that you will find this manual useful in the operation and enjoyment of your Sabre.
  • Page 2 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manualpage Happy Sailing! SABRE YACHTS RH/cg Enclosures SABRE 30 SAIL PLAN SERIES I Dwg. No. Y1­C141 SABRE 30 INTERIOR PLAN SERIES I Dwg. No. Y2­C141...
  • Page 3 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual SABRE 30 SAIL PLAN SERIES II Dwg. No. Y1­C241 SABRE 30 INTERIOR PLAN SERIES II Dwg. No. Y2­C241...
  • Page 4 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual SABRE YACHTS OWNER'S MANUAL                 SECTIONS 1.00         Introduction 2.00         Responsibility of your Dealer 3.00         Responsibility of the Owner 4.00         Warranties and Owners Registration 5.00         Design Concept and Specifications 6.00         Construction Details 7.00         Commissioning Procedures and Commissioning Check List 8.00         Mooring and Anchoring 9.00         Safety Equipment 10.00        Safety Maintenance and Annual Safety Maintenance Check List 11.00        General Maintenance ­ Exterior 12.00        General Maintenance ­ Interior 13.00        Spars and Rigging ­ Tuning and Adjustment 14.00        Sails ­ Selection and Adjustment 15.00        Steering System 16.00        Engine ­ Specifications and Operating Instructions 17.00        Drive Shaft and Propeller Systems 18.00        Fuel System...
  • Page 5 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 19.00        Exhaust System 20.00        Electrical System ­ 12 Volt 21.00        Electrical System ­ 110 Volt 22.00        Lightning Ground System 23.00        Electrolysis Protection 24.00        Fresh Water System 25.00        Drainage System and Seacocks 26.00        Head and Disposal Systems 27.00        Stove System 28.00        Keel Ballast 29.00        Optional Equipment and Electronics 30.00        Winterizing SABRE 30 ILLUSTRATIONS INDEX Title Drawing No. Illustration No. Toe Rail, Rub Rail & Deck to Hull Joint D1­V102 I­01 Mast Step Assembly D3­V101 I­02 Steering: Rudder and Tiller Assembly S1­V101 I­04 Rudder and Wheel Assembly S1­V102 I­05 Stanchion Post Assembly D2­V101 I­06 Cockpit Drain Assembly P3­V211 I­07 Genoa Track Installation D3­V401 I­08, I­08A, I­08B Chainplate Assembly...
  • Page 6 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual Jiffy Reefing Detail R3­V101 I­25, I­25A Plumbing ­ Water Systems: Fresh Water System P1­C101 I­26 Fresh Water with Auxiliary Tank P1­C102 I­27 Hot and Cold Pressurized Water P1­C103 I­28 Pressurized Water with Auxiliary Tank P1­C104 I­29 Hot Water Tank Diagram P1­C001 I­30 Bilge Drainage System P4­C101 I­31 Instrument Locations A7­V101 I­33 Electrical Systems: I­34, I­34A, I­ 12 Volt DC System ­ Diagram #1 E2­C204 34B, I­34C I­35, I­35A, I­ 12 Volt DC System ­ Diagram #2 E2­C209 35B, I­35C, I­ 110 Volt AC System E1­C101 I­36 Lightning Protection and Bonding System E2­C207...
  • Page 7 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual Please identify your model and hull number when contacting your dealer or Sabre for any reason.  The first three letters of the HIN identify the builder with the code HWS, the next two numbers identify the model (e.g. 28), the next three numbers are the hull number of your yacht (e.g. 361) and the last four digits and letters signify the month and year of manufacture (e.g.: M81A reads M81 as Model year 1981, and A as August which is the first month of the model year, B=September, C=October, etc.) It is the responsibility of your Sabre Dealer to commission your yacht in accordance with the Sabre Yachts' Commissioning Procedure, a copy of which is included in this manual.  Please be sure that the Commissioning Check List is completed by your dealer and returned to Sabre, as failure to do so may invalidate your warranty. We have strived to provide you with the most complete and detailed owner's manual in the sailboat industry.  Your Sabre dealer or the Sabre Yachts' Customer Service Department would be pleased to provide you with any information you require that is not in this manual. 2:00 RESPONSIBILITY OF YOUR DEALER All Sabre yachts are sold through Authorized Sabre Dealers who have been selected to represent the company on the basis of their knowledge of yachts and their ability to provide you with the service you deserve.  The are experts in their profession who realize that they must provide you with a high level of service and attention when you purchase a Sabre. Your Sabre Dealer is responsible to the following procedures connected with the purchase and commissioning of your yacht. 2:01    Preparing a detailed specification list for your yacht, including options, colors and upholstery selections at time of ordering. 2:02    Inspecting the yacht on delivery for loss and damage in transit, and the processing of all claims against the transport company.   Should you notice any loss or damage you must notify your dealer within 30 days of arrival, as neither the carrier nor Sabre can honor claims beyond 30 days. 2:03    Inspecting the Equipment boxes that come with the yacht to assure that all items are received in accordance with the Sabre packing list. 2:04    Commissioning the yacht in accordance with the Sabre Commissioning Check List.  The dealer must check and initial each item on the list, and return the list to Sabre. 2:05    Activating and checking all mechanical systems under the conditions of actual usage. 2:06    Stepping the spars and installing all rigging.  Tuning and adjustment of the rigging must be carried out under actual sailing conditions.  Incorrect adjustments can lead to mast failure. 2:07    Instructing you on the use of your yacht and all its systems.
  • Page 8 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 3:02    Advise Sabre Yachts of any change of address, or a change of ownership, to assist us in maintaining an accurate list of owners for possible future mailings regarding safety information about your yacht. 3:03    Confirm that all items that are the Responsibility of the Dealer, outlined in Section 2:00, are completed by your dealer.  If your yacht is delivered to a location other than the official address of your Sabre dealer, it becomes your sole responsibility to supervise the commissioning of your yacht, and to ensure that all items listed as the Responsibility of the Dealer are completed by competent professional marine service personnel. 3:04    Operate your yacht in accordance with instructions provided in all sections of this owner's manual, the individual supplier instruction manuals provided, and all applicable U.S. Coast Guard and other regulations. 3:05    Supervise the maintenance of your yacht by competent marine service personnel, in accordance with all instructions provided in this owner's manual, the individual supplier instruction manuals, the U.S. Coast Guard standards, the American Boat and Yacht Council standards, and all other applicable standards. 3:06    Supply and maintain all additional safety equipment on board as required or recommended by the U.S. Coast Guard and International Offshore Racing Council for your size yacht and the nature of your voyage. 3:07    Observe the requirements of the Sabre Boating Safety Check List each time you use your boat before operation.  A copy of this check list is located on the underside of the cockpit locker lid giving access to the engine ignition key.  Additional copies are available from Sabre Yachts upon request.         1. EXPERIENCED CREW ­ Are there at least two experienced persons on board who are familiar with the operation of the boat and all safety gear, each capable of acting as skipper in case of emergency?   Are they familiar with the "Right­of­Way" rules?         2. WEATHER CONDITIONS ­ Is it safe to go out?  Do you know the weather forecast?         3. FLOAT PLAN ­ Does anyone ashore know where you are going and when you plan to return?         4. CHARTS ­ Do you have up­to­date charts for the waters you will be navigating?         5. LIFE SAVING DEVICES ­ One for each person on board?         6. FUEL SYSTEM ­ Check for fuel leaks, fumes and adequate fuel.  Operate the blower at least four minutes before starting engine.         7. EXHAUST SYSTEM ­ Check for wear or deterioration in the exhaust system that may allow hazardous fumes to escape.         8. STEERING SYSTEM ­ Working properly with signs of excessive wear?         9. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ­ Navigation lights operating properly and batteries charged?         10. MAST AND RIGGING ­ In good condition and properly adjusted?         11. EMERGENCY GEAR ­ Check fire extinguishers, bilge pump, two anchors with line,...
  • Page 9 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual Each Sabre yacht is covered by a Limited Warranty as detailed in the next two pages.  Your yacht was carefully inspected at numerous stages of construction by our skilled Quality Engineering experts, but occasionally situations will occur that require attention under this limited warranty.  Before proceeding with any warranty related work, you should carefully read the enclosed copy of your warranty and the guidelines listed below. 4:01    Complete the enclosed Warranty Registration card within 15 days of delivery of your yacht to validate your warranty. 4:02    Should warranty related work be required on your yacht, first contact your Sabre dealer.  He is a knowledgeable professional who is familiar with your boat, and knows the most efficient way to complete the necessary work.  Your Sabre Dealer will contact Sabre Yachts for authorization to proceed with the work, and for detailed instructions to correct the situation in the most expeditious and satisfactory manner. 4:03    If it is not reasonably possible to return your yacht to your own Sabre Dealer for warranty work, then make every effort to take your yacht to another authorized Sabre Dealer or service yard.  If this is not possible, contact Sabre Yachts' Customer Service Department to request authorization to have the work performed at another location. 4:04    Authorization must be granted by Sabre Yachts before any work is carried out for this warranty to be valid.  This is especially important if the work is to be carried out by a yard other than your Sabre Dealer. 4:05    Any claims for payment under this limited warranty must be fully documented, with details of all materials and labor used with quantities, hours, and rates.  Sabre Yachts agrees to make full payment for work covered by this limited warranty on the basis of reasonable hours for the work actually performed and at prevailing rates in the area for materials and labor. SABRE YACHTS LIMITED WARRANTY                                                                                     October 21, 1982 1.    SABRE YACHTS WARRANTS all yachts and parts manufactured by it to be free of defects due to substandard materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of twelve (12) months after the date of sale to the original consumer purchaser, or twelve (12) months after the date of commissioning if preceding the sale date, except as limited herein. 2.    TO VALIDATE THIS WARRANTY, THE ATTACHED WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD must be fully completed and mailed to Sabre Yachts within fifteen (15) days of delivery to the original consumer purchaser.  Failure to return this Warranty Registration Card may prevent the notification of defect and repair at manufacturer's expense, in accordance with the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971.   Additional Warranty Registration Cards are available at the dealer. 3.    THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO: (a) engine, batteries, controls, instruments, pump or other equipment or accessories carrying their own individual warranties; (b) items installed by the dealer; (c) gelcoat damage such as crazing caused by stress, impact,...
  • Page 10 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 5.    LIMITED WARRANTY IS MADE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER REPRESENTATIONS, conditions, warranties, obligations, or liabilities on the part of the company.  The total liability of the company for breach hereof shall be limited to the provisions herein and in no way shall the company be liable for consequential damages arising from a breach hereof.  Sabre Yachts makes no other expressed warranties and intends no implied warranties.  If any implied warranties are found to exist, such implied warranties will be subject to the time limits noted in this warranty.  Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you. 6.    IF A DEFECT IS DISCOVERED, the purchaser must notify a Authorized Sabre Dealer, or Sabre Yachts Customer Service Department at P.O. Box 10, South Casco, Maine, 04077. 7.    INSPECTION OF THE DEFECT must be carried out by an Authorized Sabre Dealer, or an Authorized Sabre Service Agent, to determine the full extent of the defect before repair or replacement is authorized by Sabre Yachts. 8.    AUTHORIZATION MUST BE GRANTED BY SABRE YACHTS before any work is carried out under this limited warranty.  Work carried out prior to receipt of authorization will not be covered under this warranty. 9.    SABRE YACHTS, OR ITS AUTHORIZED DEALER OR SERVICE AGENT, SHALL REPAIR OR REPLACE, at its discretion, defective components or parts within a reasonable time.  Sabre Yachts' responsibility in respect to claims is limited to making the required repairs or replacements and no claim of breach of warranty shall be cause for cancellation or rescission of the contract of sale for any yacht.   The Dealer or Authorized Service Yard is not an agent for Sabre Yachts except for the purpose of administering the above warranty to the extent herein provided and Sabre Yachts does not authorize the Dealer or any other person to assume liability to expense incurred in the replacement or repair of products other than those expressly authorized herein. 10.    ANY CLAIM FOR REIMBURSEMENT under this warranty must be fully documented, providing full details of all materials and labor used with hours, quantities, and rates. 11.    SABRE YACHTS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY for loss of use of the yacht, loss of time, inconvenience or other damage, consequential or otherwise, including, but not limited to, the cost of transporting the yacht to and from an Authorized Service Yard, travel, lodging, loss of revenue, loss or damage to personal property.  Some states to not allow the exclusion of limitations of incidental or consequential damages, so these limitations may not apply to you. 12.    THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. 13.    THE COMPANY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE CHANGES in design, materials, or specifications of its products without obligation or liability to incorporate such changes in products of prior manufacture.
  • Page 11 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual shape just forward of the NASA foil section rudder to improve the efficiency of the rudder and to reduce drag. The sail plan and rigging of each model has been developed for the best balance between light air performance and heavy weather stability.  The sail area has been selected to allow a full main and 150% genoa to be carried up to about 16 knots apparent wind within the maximum 25% angle of heel.  However, this will vary with individual boats depending on the fullness of the sails. Shoal draft versions of each model have been designed with a minimum sacrifice of performance for shoal water areas.  The Sabre 28 and Sabre 30 have an optional shoal keel configuration.  The Sabre 34 and Sabre 38 have an optional keel/centerboard that has been carefully engineered for efficiency and reliability. The propeller shaft of each model has been offset slightly from the centerline as the result of our extensive testing of on­center and off­center shafts on experimental Sabres we have built.  The offset location was found to have the best combination of efficiency with minimum rudder turbulence based on these tests. All Sabre models undergo continual refinement, with a large number of changes and refinements each year to keep them in the forefront of their model category. 5:01    Since her introduction in 1979, over 90 Sabre 30's have been built.  With the Sabre commitment to performance cruising, the Sabre 30 has a very modern hull, keel and rig design while retaining an attractive, traditional profile.  An example of her popularity is the fact that of the 90 Sabre 30's we have built only several have ever been advertised for resale. The Sabre 30 is often mistaken for a much larger yacht because of the many large yacht details evident in her deck layout and rigging.  Her owners enjoy a pride of ownership rarely found in other 30 footers. Her cruising accommodations are exceptional.   She has 61 separate drawers, lockers and shelves, a comfortable galley and a convenient fold away chart table over the quarterberth.  The Sabre dedication to simple, but effective designs which maximize available space is illustrated by the large main cabin table which folds neatly away on the main cabin bulkhead.  The Sabre 30 features a fully enclosed head with shower sump for her pressure water/shower option. Under sail, the Sabre 30 has the steady feel of a much larger yacht.  Her modern, easily driven hull shape insures easy powering and comfortable sailing even when shorthanded. SABRE 30 SERIES I 29' 11" 24' 0" Beam Maximum 10' 0"...
  • Page 12 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual Sail Area to Displacement Ratio 16.47%, 16.23% Shoal Draft Ballast to Displacement Ratio 40%, 41% Shoal Draft *Mast Height Above Water 45' 0" Approximate Height on Standard Cradle 11' 3", 10' 3" Shoal Draft Fresh Water Capacity 22 gal. Fuel Capacity 20 gal. Holding Tank Capacity 24 gal. Theoretical Hull Speed 6.6 knots *This figure does not allow for optional masthead lighting, radio antennas or masthead electronics.  Bridge clearance will also vary with sea conditions and trim of boat. SABRE 30 SERIES II 29' 11" 24' 0" Beam Maximum 10' 0" Beam Waterline 8' 4" Draft Standard Keel 5' 0" Draft Shoal Keel 4' 0" Displacement Standard Keel 8600 lbs Displacement Shoal Keel 8800 lbs Ballast Standard Keel 3600 lbs Ballast Shoal Keel 3800 lbs Sail Area Main plus 100% Fore Triangle...
  • Page 13 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual Refer to the index of sections for specific information on a subject. 6:01    HULL ­ The hull is a single unit fiberglass molding, which is hand laminated using the finest marine grade polyester resin.   All fiberglass materials are pre­cut using templates to maintain design thickness throughout the hull.  Isothalic gelcoat, approximately 15 mm. thick is first sprayed onto the highly polished hull mold, then one layer of 1.0 ounce fiberglass mat is placed throughout the hull to provide a strong and even backup for the gelcoat finish.  The structural laminate schedule begins with one layer of 1.5 ounce mat and is followed by alternating layers of 1.5 ounce mat and 24 ounce roving in the following manner: 8 layers from keelson to the turn of the bilge, 6 layers from the turn of the bilge to just above the waterline and 4 layers from just above the waterline to the sheer.  Balsa core panels, 1/4 " thick are also used to strengthen the flat sections of the topsides in the forward sections of the hull. Additional reinforcing is provided in all key stress areas by overlapping extra layers of fiberglass.  For example, there are 14 layers at the stem, 18 layers at the keelson and 18 layers where the keel is attached to the hull. 6:02    DECK ­ The Sabre 30 Deck is a single unit, hand laminated, fiberglass molding with non­skid surfaces molded in.  One layer of 1.0 ounce fiberglass mat is initially placed throughout the deck to provide a strong and even back­up for the gelcoat finish.  This is followed with one layer of of 10 ounce fiberglass cloth and one layer of 1.0 ounce mat.  End grain balsa coring, 3/8" thick, is then applied on all walking surfaces of the deck.  Additional reinforcing is provided in key stress areas such as the mast step, rudder post and stanchion bases, using appropriate thicknesses of marine plywood.  The deck laminate is then finished with one layer of 1.5 ounce mat and one layer of 10 ounce cloth. 6:03    LINER ­ The liner has a textured pattern molded into the orthothalic gelcoat layer, reinforced with 2 ounce mat for structural strength.  The liner is heavily reinforced with additional layers of mat, cloth and woven roving in areas of stress such as the mast support beam and bulkhead mounting ribs. The deck and liner are bonded together using fiberglass putty filled with microballoons.  This fiberglass putty provides structural continuity at all areas of stress, while allowing a space of approximately 1/2" between the deck and liner to thermal insulation and for recessing desk hardware bolts. 6:04    DECK TO HULL JOINT ­ The deck to hull joint consists of a fiberglass flange molded onto the hull, which allows stainless steel bolts with washers and aircraft locknuts to fasten the teak toerail, vinyl rub rail extrusions, deck flange and hull into one integral unit.  To assure a watertight fit, five layers of butyl tape are placed on the hull flange before fastening the deck and vinyl extrusion in place with bedding compound.  In addition, each stainless steel bolt is individually caulked as it is installed.  When the bolts are tightened, the butyl bedding compound is compressed to fill all voids.  A leak at this deck to hull joint can usually be overcome by additional tightening of the...
  • Page 14 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual After assembly, the rudder molding and shaft are filled with a high density, closed cell urethane foam to maintain watertight integrity and designed rudder weight.  A hairline crack at the joint between the two rudder halves has no structural significance.  It can readily be repaired by digging out all loose material and filling with fiberglass putty.  A layer of fiberglass cloth should then be applied over the affected area and sanded and faired into the rudder shape. 6:08    MAST STEP ­ The mast step of the Sabre 30 is located on the cabin top, with a structural system to transfer this loading to the heavily reinforced hull sections at the keel. The deck is reinforced with a plywood core and additional layers of fiberglass at this location.  The structural beam in the headliner transfers the mast loading to the teak support post and the main bulkhead.   The teak support post is support by a heavy floor timber fiberglassed to the hull.   (Section 13:00 refers to the mast step in use, also refer to I­02) 7:00 COMMISSIONING PROCEDURE The proper commissioning of your Sabre is the responsibility of your dealer.  This is a very important step in assuring the satisfactory operation of your yacht.  The construction and inspection of each Sabre is completed to the fullest extent possible at the factory.  However, further commissioning and inspection is necessary under actual sailing conditions and usage.  Also, this commissioning procedure should be followed in subsequent years at commissioning time. 7:01    COMMISSIONING CHECK LIST: The attached Commissioning Check List procedure should be followed by your dealer in commissioning your yacht.  Each item on this list should be checked off by the dealer as the work is completed.  Both the dealer and the owner should sign the bottom of the check list to confirm that all items are completed.  This signed copy must be returned to Sabre Yachts as part of the warranty registration. 7:02    PROPER LIFTING: The careful placement of the lifting straps used to lift your Sabre is very important to avoid damaging the propeller shaft, and to assure that the center of gravity of the yacht is midway between the straps.  Additional caution should be exercised to avoid placing a strap in contact with a speedometer or depth finder thru hull fitting.  (Refer to I­14) 7:03    TRIM: Your yacht is designed to float level with the boot stripe molded into the hull under normal conditions.  You may find that the trim of your yacht is affected by the weight of optional equipment and tankage, the fullness of water and fuel tanks, and by the placement of your equipment and supplies.  In most cases, correct trim can be maintained by storing heavy items in appropriate locations.  If needed to further adjust the trim of your yacht, 60 lb. lead trimming ballast blocks may be purchased from Sabre Yachts, together with installation instructions. 7:04    STANDING RIGGING: The careful adjustment of the standing rigging of the mast under actual sailing conditions is critical to avoid mast failure.  The rigging should be...
  • Page 15 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual Engine Model _________________________ Engine Serial No. _______________ Date of Commissioning ________________ Date of Delivery ________________ The following check list should be followed as a part of the minimum dealer commissioning procedure for a Sabre yacht.  All work should be carried out in accordance with American Boat and Yacht Council Standards, U.S. Coast Guard, the Sabre Owner's Manual, and additional manuals provided for engine and other equipment.   Failure to carry out this procedure may invalidate manufacturer's warranty. 1:00    BEFORE LAUNCHING 1:01  ___  Repaint bottom at cradle pads and at bottom of keel while boat is suspended in slings. 1:02  ___  Install knotmeter sender unit (option). 1:03  ___  Check propeller, propeller shaft nuts, cotter pin, strut and cutlass bearing. 1:04  ___  Check action of rudder. 1:05  ___  Inventory all loose equipment and report all shortages and/or damages. 1:06  ___  Install zinc on propeller shaft (Dealer supplied). 2:00    LAUNCHING 2:01  ___  Check action of all thru­hull seacocks. 2:02  ___  Check all hose clamps on engine and engine fittings, exhaust lines and cockpit drains, heads and all thru­hull fittings. 2:03  ___  Check shaft log and stuffing box packing nut. 2:04  ___  Water test windows, hatches and deck fittings for leaks. 2:05  ___  Check lifeline stanchion and rail set screws. 2:06  ___  Check lifeline turnbuckles and end fittings and tension accordingly; secure and tape cotter pins and/or rings. 3:00    RIGGING AND TUNING OF SPARS 3:01  ___  Inspect wire rigging for kinks or defects. 3:02  ___  Install standing rigging on mast.  Open all cotter pins fully. 3:03  ___  Install spreaders on mast, securely fastening upper shrouds to spreader tips with stainless steel wire or end caps.  Spreader tip boots should be installed to reduce sail wear. 3:04  ___  Check operation of all mast lights, antenna wires, and accessories before stepping mast. 3:05  ___  Check operation of all halyards and lifts.   Lubricate sheaves if necessary. 3:06  ___  Install masthead instruments (option). 3:07  ___  Step mast and install boom. 3:08  ___  Adjust rigging tension to assure a straight mast when boat is heeled at 25 degrees.  See standing rigging adjustment in owner's manual. 3:09  ___  Secure turnbuckles, clevis pins and cotter pins and protect with tape. ...
  • Page 16 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 3:10  ___  Review all running rigging for completeness. 3:11  ___  Install mainsail reef eyes and blocks on boom to suit reefing eyes in sail. 4:00    BEFORE STARTING ENGINE 4:01  ___  Review Engine Manual 4:02  ___  Align engine to shaft with rig stepped and tensioned.  Engine is disconnected prior to shipment.  Coupling bolts are labeled and shipped in galley drawer.  (step locker in Sabre 38) 4:03  ___  Check engine coolant drain plugs. 4:04  ___  Check action of throttle, shift and engine stop controls. 4:05  ___  Fill fuel tank to at least one half full. 4:06  ___  Check fuel tank, fuel lines and fuel filter for leaks. 4:07  ___  Check engine and transmission oil levels. 4:08  ___  Check that engine water intake seacock is open. 4:09  ___  Check levels of water in fresh water engine cooling reservoir. 4:10  ___  Run engine compartment blower for 4 minutes, check air suction and discharge of vent ducts. 4:11  ___  Check battery water levels. 4:12  ___  Check that batteries are properly secured. 4:13  ___  Check battery switch, battery charge indicator (option). 4:14  ___  Check main breaker and breaker panel light. 4:15  ___  Check navigation lights, sidelights, masthead and stern lights.  Check that added equipment does not obscure the lens light arc.   Review current regulations with owner. 4:16  ___  Check anchor light, foredeck flood light. 4:17  ___  Check engine instrument lights, compass light. 4:18  ___  Check all cabin lights. 4:19  ___  Check shower sump pump (option). 4:20  ___  Check electric bilge pump (option). 4:21  ___  Check 110V AC shore power (option). 4:22  ___  Check 110V AC voltmeter/polarity indicator and instruct owner on its use. 4:23  ___  Check 110V AC receptacles. 4:24  ___  Check Lectra/San operation (option). 4:25  ___  Check operation of navigational instruments (option). 5:00    STARTING ENGINE 5:01  ___  Review Engine Operation manual with boat owner. 5:02  ___  Open fuel valve. 16/81...
  • Page 17 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 5:03  ___  Start engine.  Water temp/oil pressure alarm should activate and shut off when engine starts. 5:04  ___  Check oil pressure, ammeter charge, fuel and water temperature gauges. 5:05  ___  Check exhaust water flow. 5:06  ___  Inspect engine water cooling system for leaks. 5:07  ___  Inspect exhaust system for water and exhaust leaks. 5:08  ___  Check gear shift lever in all positions and adjust cable if needed. 5:09  ___  Check throttle action and adjust cable if needed. 5:10  ___  Adjust idle speed in accordance with Engine Manual. 5:11  ___  Adjust stuffing box after engine has been run for 10­15 minutes. 5:12  ___  Check bilge for signs of fuel leaks. 5:13  ___   Recheck entire fuel system for leaks. 6:00    FRESH WATER SYSTEMS 6:01  ___  Fill fresh water tank. 6:02  ___  Check action of galley and vanity foot pumps.   Note: To avoid damage to foot pump, faucet shutoff must be open. 6:03  ___  Check water system for leaks. 6:04  ___  Check pressure water faucets and systems (option). 6:05  ___  Commission water heater and check engine drive and 110V AC heating operation (option). 7:00    HEAD SYSTEM 7:01  ___  Check action of head. 7:02  ___  Check head fill and discharge hoses for leaks. 7:03  ___  Check action of holding tank. 7:04  ___  Check operation of y­valve discharge plumbing and instruct owner on proper valve positioning (option). 7:05  ___  Activate Lectra/San unit (option) in accordance with instructions.  Unit may be difficult to prime with water.  See owner's manual for priming procedure. 8:00    STOVES AND OVENS 8:01  ___  Review stove or oven manual with owner. 8:02  ___  Fill alcohol tank half full. 8:03  ___  Check CNG tank and system (option). 8:04  ___  Check action of all burners. 8:05  ___  Check adjustment of burner control valves. 8:06  ___  Check hoses and control valve packing nuts for air pressure or fuel leaks. 9:00    SEA TRIALS 17/81...
  • Page 18 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 9:01  ___  Check fit of sails. 9:02  ___  Adjust rigging to assure straight mast and proper tension on stays at maximum design angle of heel. 9:03  ___  Check electronic instruments and calibrate in accordance with instructions (option). 9:04  ___  Compensate compass. 10:00    FINAL 10:01  ___  Check fit of all drawers, doors and latches after rigging is tensioned and adjust if necessary.  The stress of rigging tension usually requires that door latches be reset. 10:02  ___  Water test chainplates and re­bed if necessary. 10:03  ___  Check adjustment of steering cables after sea trials and make sure wire clamps and cable adjustment nuts are tight (option). 10:04  ___  Check fit of emergency tiller and instruct owner in its use (with wheel option). 10:05  ___  Clean boat throughout, both interior and exterior. 10:06  ___  Review Owners Manual and accessory instructions with owner. 10:07  ___  Fill out Warranty Card.               I hereby certify that the Dealer Commissioning Check List has been satisfactorily completed.  Please sign and return to Sabre Yachts with Warranty Registration information.   Dealer Signature __________________________________ Date ________________ Boat Owner's Signature ____________________________ Date ________________     8:00 MOORING AND ANCHORING It has been in relatively recent years that most advancements concerning ground tackle have been made.  The subject has been studies as a science and now a variety of systems have been designed to suit the numerous conditions encountered. The booklet "Anchors and Anchoring" by R. D. Ogg, has been included in the binder of manufacturer's information.  This is a most complete booklet for choosing the mooring and...
  • Page 19 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual anchoring system best suited for your boat and conditions. It contains information on rode size and length, anchor chains, choosing appropriate working and storm anchors, as well as a short history of the progression and development of modern anchors. in general a minimum of two anchors should be carried at all times and enough anchor rope and chain necessary for the depth of water to be navigated during storm conditions. Certain anchors are useful for a variety of bottom conditions.   Study the charts of the area to be navigated for information concerning bottom conditions and water depth. Permanent moorings must be marked with information on your personal identification.  Also marking the buoy in such a way that is can easily be identified will benefit you in locating it in stormy or congested conditions. The greatest hazard with a sound permanent mooring is the chafe which can occur to the rode pennant at the bow chocks.  This is the single most common site of failure.  Care is advised in the selection and protection of the rode pennant with appropriate chafing gear.  Continual inspection of moored boats on a regular basis is necessary to insure the boat's safety. 9:00 SAFETY EQUIPMENT Good safety equipment should be a priority of every sailor for the protection and comfort of his passengers.  Passengers aboard should be made familiar with the safety equipment and operation of the boat in the event of an emergency.   U.S. Coast Guard Regulations require that certain equipment be on board.   Contact the U.S. Coast Guard for literature on the current laws. 9:01    DISTRESS SIGNALS: Visual distress signals are required by the U.S. Coast Guard for any boat 16 feet or more in length, and by all boats during night operation.  A variety of devices are acceptable to meet the requirements.  Check with the U.S. Coast Guard for the particular regulations and equipment.  This equipment has been thoroughly tested and is easy to use. 9:02    FLOTATION DEVICES: An approved life preserver for each passenger aboard is required by the U.S. Coast Guard.  There are a variety of approved styles available, choose one that you are comfortable with. Additionally, a safety harness should be available and worn during night time sailing as well as during periods of foul weather. 9:03    FIRE EXTINGUISHERS: Approved type B:C1 fire extinguishers are installed on each yacht.  They are dry chemical type with sodium bicarbonate as the basic extinguishing agent.  You should become familiar with their locations and proper use.  A gauge on each extinguisher readily indicates if it is in good working order. 9:04    EMERGENCY TILLER: On boats with wheel steering, a tee shaped pipe, the emergency tiller, is supplied for use in the event of steering failure.  It can be easily lifted from its mounting brackets on the shelf in the cockpit locker.  An emergency tiller cover...
  • Page 20 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 10:01    STANDING RIGGING: Standing rigging includes all parts concerned with support of the mast.  All components should be examined each time before going sailing and given a more thorough examination on a monthly basis.  Spreaders should be positioned at the appropriate angles and have boots or taped ends.  Bent or damaged spreaders must be replaced.  Turnbuckles should all contain cotter pins top and bottom to secure their position and have boots or be taped over with plastic tape to prevent snagging of clothes or sails. Check thoroughly the point at which the wire cable enters the swayed terminal ends.  A small silicone bead around this junction will prevent salt from penetrating and will easily identify any slippage of the wire out of the terminal. A complete inspection of all rigging should be conducted monthly and cables or parts should be replaced if any rust or breaks are found. 10:02    RUNNING RIGGING: Running rigging includes all the gear used in handling and trimming sails.  The main and genoa halyards are stainless steel wire spliced to rope.  As the wire cable passes over sheaves at the masthead and the turning blocks at the foot of the mast, they are exposed to continual heavy loads and flexing.  This constant strain will wear on wire after a period of time so the halyards should be examined on a regular monthly basis and sooner if the boat is sailed more frequently.  When signs of wear or stress are found the halyard will need replacing. The junction of the splice between the wire and rope tends to be an area of weakness.  The integrity of the splice should be checked frequently. The rope halyards are not exposed to as severe a strain as wire halyard, yet should also be examined frequently.  The ends should be protected from fraying. 10:03    LIFE LINES: As with the rigging, a thorough examination of the cable and cable ends should be conducted monthly.   Routine inspection should be done every time the boat is sailed.  Look for loose cables, frayed wire, or rusted fasteners and replace worn parts.  Turnbuckles should be fully engaged onto the threaded rod and lock nuts tightened securely.  Line tension should be snug without being overly tight.  Small cotter pins will insure that turnbuckles with remain tight and the whole turnbuckle assembly should be taped with plastic tape to prevent snagging and chafe. 10:04    STANCHION POST: Stanchion posts should be securely fastened to the deck as described in Section 10:14.  (Refer to I­06) 10:05    FIRE EXTINGUISHERS: Each fire extinguisher should be checked monthly.  A gauge on each extinguisher allows you to easily check the charge.  Each passenger should be made aware of the best way to exit the cabin in the case of a fire or other emergency. 10:07    THRU HULLS: At hauling each season all seacocks and thru hulls should be completely drained, cleaned and greased as described in Section 25:00.  Adjust the retaining nut and lock nut to the appropriate tightness.
  • Page 21 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual Be careful not to over tighten deck hardware which could possibly strip the threads.  Keeping all deck hardware clean and waxed will prevent any corrosion from forming.  (Refer to I­06, 08) 10:09    CHAINPLATES: Chainplates are thru bolted to the bulkheads with 1/2" nuts and bolts with lock washers.  Check nut and bolt tightness monthly.  (Refer to I­09) 10:10    WINCHES: During active sailing periods the winches should be stripped down, cleaned and lubricated at least once a year.   Disassemble, clean and lubricate the internal mechanism with a light water pump grease. 10:10    WINCHES (Cont'd) It is recommended that you wash down winches after each sail with fresh water, dry and cover.  Refer to the literature in the manufacturer's binder on the winches for detailed maintenance instruction.  As with other deck hardware, removable access plates allow access to nuts for the cabin top winches and the nuts for the coaming winches are accessible through the openings of the winch pockets. 10:11    BILGE: The bilge should be checked for water and drained every time you board or leave the boat.  A reinforced hose leads from the pump to the bilge.  A metal strainer in the bilge protects the pump from large foreign objects.  It should be checked frequently.  In the event that something clogs the pump, it may be disassembled and cleared. 10:12    STEERING: Tiller and wheel steering should be thoroughly examined monthly and regularly during extended voyages.  (Refer to Section 15:00 for complete steering maintenance.) 10:13    WIRING: The wiring system including the lightening protection and bonding system, should be inspected seasonally or as the need arises.  Check wire insulation and terminal ends for soundness.  (Refer to Sections 20:00, 21:00, 22:00, 23:00 for further details.) 10:15    ANNUAL SAFETY MAINTENANCE CHECK LIST The following list has been compiled as a guide to check critical safety related components of the boat.  It is very important that this maintenance inspection of the boat be completed each year to assure the ongoing safety of your boat. 1:00    STANDING RIGGING 1:01  ___  Check turnbuckles, threads, swages, and pins for corrosion or wear. 1:02  ___  Check chainplates for hole elongation, bolts, and mount integrity. 1:03  ___  Check mast hardware including masthead, tangs, and pins for wear and corrosion. 1:04  ___  Check mast stay and shroud wire for corrosion, wear, and burrs. 1:05  ___  Tune rig. 2:00    RUNNING RIGGING 2:01  ___  Check lines for wear and splice condition. 2:02  ___  Check block attachment and condition of sheaves. 2:03  ___  Service winches, check for free operation and ratchet stop function.
  • Page 22 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 4:00    STEERING SYSTEM 4:01  ___  Check rudder condition. 4:02  ___  Check rudder post play in bearing tube. 4:03  ___  Check stuffing box, packing, and grease cup. 4:04  ___  Check drive wheel attachment. 4:05  ___  Check integrity of cables and chain clamps. 4:06  ___  Check steering wheel shaft lubrication and wheel security. 5:00    THRU HULL AND SEACOCKS 5:01  ___  Check seacock integrity. 5:02  ___  Check seacock attachment to hull. 5:03  ___  Check for free operation and lubrication. 5:04  ___  Check hose, integrity, attachment and clamps. 6:00    ELECTRICAL 6:01  ___  Check battery charge, terminal connections, and electrolyte condition. 6:02  ___  Check breaker panel and switch condition. 6:03  ___  Check terminal for tightness and corrosion. 6:00    ELECTRICAL (CONT'D) 6:04  ___  Check running light operation. 6:05  ___  Check ground wire attachment to keel, chainplates, mast step, thru hulls, and engine. 7:00    MECHANICAL SYSTEMS 7:01  ___  Check stove fuel system, hoses, clamps, and shut offs. 7:02  ___  Check heating stove ­ clearance and exhaust pipes. 8:00    ENGINE AND DRIVE TRAIN SYSTEM 8:01  ___  Check engine fluid levels and systems for leaks ­ shut off controls. 8:02  ___  Check throttle action ­ start and stop controls, cable clamps, and locknut. 8:03  ___  Check shifter cable clamps and locknuts. 8:04  ___  Check exhaust system soundness, hose clamps, and waterlock canister. 8:05  ___  Check coolant system, hose clamps, intake, and filters. 8:06  ___  Check transmission shift lever action, control wirage, fluid level, and alignment. 8:07  ___  Check trueness of shaft, coupling, and prop attachment. 8:08  ___  Check shaft log tube integrity, packing, hoses, and clamps. 8:09  ___  Check strut bolt attachment, cutlass bearing, and shaft bolts. 8:10  ___  Check all engine wire connections. 22/81...
  • Page 23 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 9:00    KEELS 9:01  ___  Check keel bolt nuts for tightness (on cradle to 90 foot pounds). 9:02  ___  Check centerboard cable connections, hose clamps, and winch. 10:00    PLUMBING 10:01  ___  Check bilge pump function, hose clamps, and strainer. 11:00    REPAIRS All necessary repairs should be completed before continuing to use the boat. 11:00 EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE The following is a general guide for use in the maintenance of your yacht's exterior.  Materials of the highest quality have been used in construction and with regular attention their appearance and performance should remain new. 11:01    FIBERGLASS: As a boatbuilding material, fiberglass is recognized as one of the most maintenance free.  The exterior surface is gelcoat, a color impregnated resin.  Care is needed for the boat to withstand the rigors of usage. Frequency of washing will depend on need, yet several times per season should be anticipated.  Wash with mild detergent and warm, fresh water, using a soft sponge or soft natural brush.  Non skid areas may require a stiffer brush.   Rinse entirely with fresh water.  Stubborn stains and minor scratches can be removed with conservative use of a fiberglass cleaner containing a gentle abrasive, after which the area will need waxing with a quality automotive or boat wax. The entire topsides and superstructure should be waxed at least once yearly, with a routine of waxing at launching and hauling preferred.  Leaving non­skid areas unwaxed will increase the non­skid effect. Minor gelcoat damage may be repaired through the use of a gelcoat repair kit available from Sabre Yachts.  Complete instructions are included with the kit.  Other gelcoat and fiberglass damage should be referred to your Sabre dealer. Pencil line cracks may appear in the gelcoat at corners of the deck molding, especially around the cockpit and backstay chainplate.  This is strictly a surface condition in the gelcoat finish and does not indicate structural weakness. 11:02    YACHT'S BOTTOM: A quality anti­fouling bottom paint is needed to protect your boat from marine growth.  Factory applied paint is Petit Unipoxy Atlantic formula, suitable for most conditions. Different geographical locations may dictate the need for a specific paint.  See your Sabre dealer for this information.  Painting is recommended before launching each season. It is necessary to properly prepare the new fiberglass surface for painting by etching with sandpaper or a chemical product designed for this purpose.   This is followed by washing twice with a fiberglass solvent wash.  Paint should then be rolled on to produce as smooth a surface as possible.  Certain bottom paints are chemically incompatible and care must be taken in their selection.  Read all information and instructions supplied...
  • Page 24 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual care can be helpful. The external crack at the keel joint may be filled at this time.   Refer to Section 28:00 concerning this area.  This can be followed by sanding the entire bottom to prepare for paint of to produce a smooth racing surface.  (Refer also to I­10) 11:03    COVE STRIPE: The cove stripe is a high quality colored plastic tape.  It may be cleaned during the regular washing with mild detergent.  Abrasive or wax removing cleaners may damage the tape and/or effect it's adhesion to the hull.  If damaged, the appropriate replacement tape can be purchased from Sabre Yachts. 11:04    RUB RAIL: A vinyl rub rail encloses the deck to hull joint.  It is very durable and can be washed.  Stubborn stains or discoloration can be removed using an abrasive cleaner being careful to avoid neighboring gelcoat surfaces. 11:05    PORTS & HATCHES: The ports and hatches are either high strength plexiglass, Lexan or  safety glass.  A soft cloth should be used in cleaning and any type of abrasive cleaner or solvent should be avoided.  While plexiglass and Lexan are highly impact resistant, they have a tendency to scratch easily.  Plastic cleaner and polish, available in hardware stores, will remove most surface scratches.  (Refer to Section 10:14 concerning window leaks) 11:06    STAINLESS STEEL AND DECK HARDWARE: Many of the hardware pieces are custom made for Sabre Yachts.  All are made of corrosion resistant metal alloys.  However, discoloration will occur in salt air environment.  Routine rinsing with fresh water after a cruise will retard this and regular cleaning with metal polish followed by waxing will keep them protected and free of stains.  (Refer to Section 9:00 and 10:00 concerning mechanical maintenance of winches, blocks, and other hardware) 11:07    EXTERIOR TEAK: The exterior teak may be treated with one of the many teak oil preparations available from marine stores which will maintain the brown color of the teak.  However, this will require continual application at short intervals to maintain an attractive appearance. We recommend leaving the exterior teak unfinished, as allowing the teak to weather naturally is the most satisfactory long term solution.  An annual treatment with one of the many teak cleaning compounds, that work by chemically dissolving the gray material that forms on the teak, is suggested.  this will rejuvenate the appearance to virtually original condition, and has been found to greatly postpone further graying of the teak. 11:08    SAILS: The care given your sails will be reflected in their long life. Ultraviolet light from the sun is one of the main causes of sailcloth deterioration.  Sails must be properly folded when not on the boom and kept covered with a sail cover. Sails that get wet must be rinsed with fresh water and dried before storing for any length of time.  Washing the sails in a mild detergent and water solution each year before storage will remove minute salt crystals which otherwise can act as abrasives and hold moisture in the sail.
  • Page 25 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual The following is a listing of possible deck leak sources and standard repairs. 1.    Chainplates: Each year at commissioning after rig is installed and tuned, add a caulking bead around the base of the chainplate.  If persistent leaks occur, when the boat is decommissioned, lift the stainless steel chainplate cover, countersink a larger sealant groove under the cover, and recaulk with a polysulfide or urethane sealant. 2.    Toerails: Various techniques may be involved, depending upon the severity of the problem.  First tighten toerail bolt nuts on the hull flange.  If tightening alone does not work, remove nuts and reinstall with a recessed washer and solid butyl caulking.  Some plugs may have to be removed to hold nut. In extreme cases, and if toerails are loose enough to see a void under the rubrail and will not tighten down, remove plugs under rubrail edge, and remove all nuts.  Apply a urethane sealant, such as 3M5200, and reinstall with caulked recess washers.  (Refer to I­ 3.    Deck Drains: Clean surface thoroughly and apply a urethane sealant around joint between drain tube and hull, and deck outside and inside the cabin. 4.    Genoa Track Outboard: Same as toerail except screw head is readily accessible.  (Refer to I­08) 5.    Genoa Track Inboard: Tighten bolts after removing cover.  If not successful, remove bolts and track, countersink sealant groove if not in place, rebed track with butyl sealant and install oversize washers. 6.    Windows: a) If water appears on liner under windows or berth tops, rub silicone around frame edge.  Clean off excess caulking immediately with clean rag.  if not successful, remove window and recaulk with butyl and silicone sealants. 6.    Windows (Cont'd): b) If water appears on black rubber gasket or in aluminum channel, rub silicone in void between glass and frame, reglaze or replace window. 7.    Mast Step­Sabre 28, Sabre 30: Recaulk mast step at holes for wires and around edges.  If this is not successful, remove mast step and recaulk. 8.    Mast Collar­Sabre 34, Sabre 38: Retape and seal boot.  Recaulk collar bolts and around base. 9.    Traveller Bolts and Spray Hood Bolts: Recaulk bolts with urethane sealant. 10.    Stanchion Posts and Rail Bases: Rub in silicone or urethane sealant around base edge and screw heads.  If this is not successful, remove base and countersink a sealant groove at each bolt.  Recaulk with solid butyl tape sealant. 11.    Winch Pockets: Recaulk with silicone along all joints inside pocket. 12.    Emergency Tiller Cover, Pedestal and Wheel Guard Base, Cockpit Drains: Recaulk with butyl sealant. 13.    Anchor Well Bulkhead: Recaulk with silicone. 14.    Teak Components and Trim: Apply polysulfide seam sealant around base of leaking areas.
  • Page 26 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 11:10    HULL LEAKS: There are a number of sources of excessive water in bilge.  Only a few are of a potentially serious nature.   Locating hull leaks is facilitated by noting when the water fills in the fastest (i.e. sailing, motoring, or at mooring).  Even then, it is usually just a slight trickle.  Possible sources are as follows. 1.    Anchor Well Drain: Contact Sabre for repair kit and instructions. 2.    Strut Bolts: Remove strut bolts and recaulk with a polysulfide or urethane sealant.  Be sure to install washers and double nuts with lock washer between.  Check for the cause of the loose strut. 11:00 EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE (Cont'd) 3.    Rudder Stuffing Box: Tighten or replace packing.  If not successful, check for leaks between the bronze stuffing box and the fiberglass, and then refiberglass.  (Refer to Section 1) 4.    Shaft Stuffing Box: Tighten or replace packing, or replace shaft log.  (Refer to Section 17:03 and I­11) 5.    Keel Bolts: Rebed with polysulfide sealant.  Tighten nuts to 90 foot pounds.  (Refer to Section 28:00 and I­12) 6.    Thru Hulls and Seacocks: Reseat internal cone, or reseal seacock to thru hull and hull.  (Refer to Section 25:01 and I­10) 11:11 OTHER SOURCES OF WATER IN THE BILGE AREA: Check all water system components: small tanks, hoses, foot pumps, pressure pumps, accumulators, hot water tank, engine coolants, mast boot, internal water flow in the mast, and water closet gaskets. 12:00 INTERIOR MAINTENANCE Cleaning you yacht's interior should become a regular part of maintenance.  Sunny, breezy days are best suited for this as the will aid you in the drying and airing process.  The end results will increase your sailing pleasure. 12:01    TEAK: The interior teak on new Sabre yachts may show considerable variation in color, shade, and hue, due to the natural variations in freshly cut teak surfaces.  The light sensitive pigment inherent in teak will allow it to season to a deep, golden brown color over the first few months of exposure to sun and air. Areas the become especially soiled may be washed with a very mild detergent/water solution.  After drying, these areas will require light sanding and oiling. We recommend a light teak oil such as Regatta brand "Teak Shield".  This is a thin oil­ based material, which seals wood fibers to prevent absorption of surface oils and stains.  It also contains a fungicide protecting against bacterial and fungal action.  It may be used repeatedly to restore the original luster of the teaks.  Application in itself is a cleaning process.  Do not use linseed oil as it will result in excessive build­up and a varnished type appearance.  Consult knowledgeable marine store for alternative products. CAUTION: OILY RAGS ARE EXTREMELY SUSCEPTIBLE TO SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION AND MUST NEVER BE LEFT ONBOARD.
  • Page 27 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 12:04    CUSHIONS:  Our cushion supplier recommends the following steps for cleaning of cushion covers.  Vacuum thoroughly, run in a foam mixture made from Ivory Snow and a little water.  Rinse with clean water on a damp sponge and revacuum.   This should all be done with the covers still on the cushions.  Also you should use as little water as possible.   Placing the cushions out in a sunny breeze to dry will compliment your work. If the yacht will be left unused for some time, standing the cushions on edge will allow air to circulate around them and remove the chance of mildew. 12:00 INTERIOR MAINTENANCE (Cont'd) 12:05    SINKS:  All sinks on board are stainless steel.  With reasonable care they will stay new looking for years.   They are easily cleaned with detergent and water and then rinsed and dried.   Soaps tend to leave films and, if not dried, residual minerals in water can leave watermarks.  If watermarks occur they are removable with a 25% vinegar/water solution followed by cleaning with a nonscratching household or stainless steel wool as small bits of steel may adhere to the surface, causing rust. Certain substances may harm and even corrode stainless steel if they remain in contact too long.  They include bleach, salt solutions, disinfectants, cleaning compounds and food substances such as mustard, mayonnaise, lemon juice, vinegar and salt. 12:06    FORMICA:  The gleaming white Formica provides a clean, hard, durable surface.  It should be cleaned with non­abrasive kitchen cleaners.  Protect countertops when cutting with knives or working with other sharp objects, as gouges in the surface cannot be repaired.   Otherwise, it is virtually carefree. 12:07    ICE BOX:  The ice box on Sabre yachts are custom designed to optimize space by conforming to the hull shape.  It is surrounded by insulating foam up to three inches thick.  The covers are designed with attention that includes an insulation layer sandwiched between top and bottom. Food should be packed with sufficient ice to last its duration of storage.  Pre­freezing items not needed immediately will benefit the planning of a long passage. Water from melted ice will drain into a recessed sump covered by a grate in the bottom.  As water collects here it can be periodically pumped out with the hand pump, which is plumbed into the galley drainage system. The pump is mounted under the galley and is reached through the access door on the galley face.  The galley sink drain seacock must be opened while pumping to allow drainage.  (Refer to I­13) 12:08    STOVES:  A complete owner's manual written on the use of the stove has been included with it.  We recommend reading all supplied information thoroughly before first attempting to use it.   Keeping your stove clean will aid you in it's safe operation.  Clean stainless steel under the guidelines given in Section 12:05. 12:00 INTERIOR MAINTENANCE (Cont'd) 12:09    HEAD:  The marine head on board has been installed in compliance with U.S. Coast...
  • Page 28 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual disassembled at hauling, washed and well lubricated with a thin oil. 13:00 SABRE 30 SPARS AND RIGGING ­ TUNING AND ADJUSTMENT The following procedure should be followed to adjust the standing rigging on a Sabre 30 after the mast has been put in place with medium tension on all stays. 13:01    THE VERTICAL SIDE­TO­SIDE POSITION of the mast is measured by using the main halyard to determine that the distance from the masthead to both toerails is equal.  It may be necessary to add a short piece of rope to the shackle end of the halyard to reach first one toerail and then the other.   Adjust the upper shroud turnbuckles to correct any lean of the mast relative to the hull. 13:02    THE UPPER SHROUD turnbuckles should be adjusted to obtain a reasonable degree of tension in the shrouds.  While sailing at a 25 degree angle of heel the correct upper shroud tension will allow the leeward shroud to be reasonably slack without appreciable tension, but not so loose that is moves in the breeze.  Excessively tightened shrouds will distort the shape of the hull and could cause structural damage. 13:03    THE FORESTAY AND BACKSTAY should next be adjusted to be reasonably tight, but without overloading the hull which could cause structural damage.  While sailing at a 25 degree angle of heel, the correct tension will allow the forestay to sag about 6" to 8" aft at mid height.   All sails are cut to allow for approximately this amount of sag in the forestay.   Equal adjustment of the forestay and backstay turnbuckles should result in between 6" to 12" of rake aft at the masthead, which is normal.  The mast rake can be determined by using the main halyard.  Tie a weight to the shackle and measure the distance from the weight to the aft edge of the mast.  This will give you the rake, expressed in inches. 13:04    THE LOWER SHROUDS should next be adjusted to obtain a straight mast, side to side, at a 25 degree angle of heel.  This will result in the lower shrouds being about half as tight as the uppers before you start to sail.  If the lowers are too tight, the mast will curve to weather at mid height.   If they are too loose, the mast will sag to leeward at mid height. 13:05    THE FORWARD LOWER SHROUDS should next be adjusted to give approximately 2" to 3" of curve or pre­bend forward at mid height of the mast, while maintaining straight side­ to­side position of the mast per (4) above.  To achieve this effect, it will be necessary to loosen the aft lower shrouds slightly as the forward lower shrouds are being tightened and vice versa.   When the mast is properly tuned, the aft lower shrouds will be a little looser than the forward lower shrouds and considerably looser than the upper shrouds. 13:00 SABRE 30 SPARS AND RIGGING ­ TUNING AND ADJUSTMENT (Cont'd) 13:06    CHECK:  Be sure that all turnbuckles, toggles and clevis pins are secured with cotter pins that are properly bent back and taped. 13:07    CAUTION:  The majority of mast failures are caused by improperly adjusted rigging that allows the mast to bend more than 3" sideways, or 6" fore­an­aft at mid height,...
  • Page 29 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual mast must not alter the original positioning of the halyards with respect to the bolts, or serious chafing and halyard damage may occur. 13:10 STANDING RIGGING LENGTHS Sabre 30 Series I Hull No. 001 to 100 Length Pin to Pin Turnbuckle 2/3 open Length Wire Diameter Headstay 41 ' 10 " 1/4 " Backstay 43 ' 2 " 1/4 " Uppers 39 ' 6 3/4 " 1/4 " Aft Lowers 20 ' 10 3/4 " 7/32 " Forward Lowers 20 ' 8 3/4 " 7/32 " Sabre 30 Series II Hull No. 101 to Present Length Pin to Pin Turnbuckle 2/3 open Length Wire Diameter Headstay 43 ' 5 1/4 " 1/4 " Backstay 44 ' 4 1/4 " 1/4 " Uppers 41 ' 1 1/4 "...
  • Page 30 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual The following sails are recommended only as a guide to sail selection and should be discussed thoroughly with your local sailmaker prior to actual selection. 14:01    MAINSAIL:  The mainsail should be made from 6 ounce to 8 ounce cloth (depending on boat length) and should incorporate 2 sets of "Jiffy Reef" points of approximately 3 1/2 ft. depth each. An optional third reed point is suggested for boats 34 feet or larger and for all boats used for extended offshore sailing.  A Flattening reef and Cunningham are options that should be discussed with your sailmaker. 14:02    GENOAS:  The following chart should serve only as a guide to genoa selection for both conventional and roller furling headstays. Genoa Sail Cloth Sail Inventory Comments Overlap Weight Reefable (Jiffy or Roller One Headsail 130% 6 1/2 ­ 7 oz. Reefing) Two Headsails 130% 6 1/2 ­ 7 oz.     90­105% 6 1/2 ­ 7 oz. Depending on Boat Length Three Headsails 150% 4 1/2 ­ 5 oz.   Reefable (Jiffy or Roller   130% 6 1/4 ­ 7 oz. Reefing)  ...
  • Page 31 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual angle of heel is exceeded, the traveler should be moved to leeward to reduce the heeling moment, and the tension on the main sheet increased to flatten the sail.  A very full mainsail will give greatly increased weather helm.  Adjust the hoist, foot and cunningham for a flatter sail as the wind velocity increases.     GENOA:  The optimum setting for the genoa is normally with the sail 2" to 4" off the tip of the spreader.  The genoa track block should be adjusted to provide a uniform luff angle of attack from head to foot.  Should the position of your genoa lead block on the toerail be within one foot forward of the genoa winch, a great strain will be placed on the toerail and block which will encourage toerail leaks.  A genoa sheet turning block bolted to the outboard side of the aft end of the winch island is recommended in such cases.     SPINNAKER:  The spinnaker pole should be set perpendicular to the apparent wind, in approximately the same plane as the boom. 14:00 SAIL SELECTION (Cont'd)     SPINNAKER (Cont'd) The outboard end of the spinnaker pole should be set to have the tack and clew of the spinnaker at the same vertical height off the water which will vary according to the wind velocity.     STORM JIB:  A small jib with a full main will result in greatly increased weather helm at substantial angles of heel.  A more balanced reduction of the mainsail and jib sail area is required to maintain the designed balance of the rig. 14:07    ANGLE OF HEEL WHILE SAILING:   All Sabre yachts perform best at angles of heel less than 25 degrees.  Great angles of heel will result in extreme weather helm, leeway (sliding leeward) and reduction in speed.  This is typical of all boats of this general design type.  A convenient reference on Sabre 28, 30, and 34 is that the outermost six inches of the cabin top, adjacent to the cabin sides, is at a slope of 25 degrees when viewed from the cockpit.  Therefore, the maximum angle of heel is readily identified when this portion of the cabin top is parallel to the horizon.  The Sabre will often appear to be sailing faster at angles of heel greater than 25 degrees but our racing successes indicates this is strictly an illusion.  Experience has taught us that many Sabre owners sail their boats at far greater angles of heel than this, with unsatisfactory results. 14:08    REDUCING SAIL AREA IN HEAVY WINDS:   To insure safety and comfort in higher winds it is important to build into your sail inventory the ability to reduce sail area quickly and efficiently.  Your local sailmaker can assist you with recommendations and instructions on reducing sail area under varying conditions. 14:10 SAILMAKER FACT SHEET FOR SABRE 30 SLOOP Hull Numbers for Various Models:     1. Series I hull numbers: 001 to 100     2. Series II hull numbers: 101 to present...
  • Page 32 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 1. Main mast track ­ #6 metalmast flat internal slides 2. Main boom track ­ Slotted internal track, 7/16" slugs 3. Headboard shackle ­ Schaeffer 93­80 4. Main tack shackle ­ Jaw opening 3/4", jaw length 1" 5. Set­back of tack ­ 1/4" from aft face of mast 6. Set­up of tack ­ 1 1/2" above top of boom track Shackle on slide: jaw opening 1/2", jaw length 1", pin 7. Clew outhaul ­ diameter 1/4", set­up 1 1/2 above boom track 8. Luff slide stop ­ Fitted 5" above black band 9. Gooseneck ­ Fixed 10. Mast circumference ­ 1' 7" 11. Boom circumference ­ 1' 0" 2 sets of jiffy reefing hardware are provided standard 12. Jiffy reefing ­ with each boat  ...
  • Page 33 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual construction details may be found in Section 6:07.  Refer to I­05 and I­15 for steering system installation details. 15:03    EMERGENCY TILLER:  As a safety precaution on wheel steering boats, a T­shaped emergency tiller is stored in the starboard cockpit locker (port locker on Sabre 38).  It is easily lifted from its mounting brackets and will slip over the top of the rudder post after removal of the cover plate. 15:04    OPERATION:  Tiller and wheel steering both require use in order to obtain familiarity with them.  Soon a feel for your boat will develop and a sensitivity to conditions which will increase your control. When leaving the boat at a mooring or slip, make sure the wheel brake is properly tightened or that the tiller is cross tied between the winch cleats.   Do not allow the system to free wheel as excessive wear or damage may result. 15:05    MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION:   Both steering systems are very rugged and, as with any mechanical system, susceptible to loosening and wear.  It will, therefore, require routine monthly inspection and maintenance to insure safety and dependability.  This inspection should include all engine controls, pedestal accessories and all individual parts of the steering system including nuts, bolts, cotter pins, etc.  More frequent inspections should be conducted on an extended cruise.  Be alert to any unusual noise or reaction from the steering system and check immediately. The tiller rudder post cap may be tightened by taking up on the bolt through the rudder post to remove excess play.  The rudder post is lubricated by two grease cups. 15:00 STEERING SYSTEM (Cont'd) 15:05    (cont'd) Be sure the bolts holding the tiller to the rudder post cap are tight, as any loose nuts may result in the tiller breaking away from the rudder post.   The rudder shaft should be cleaned and lubricated every two years by removing the rudder.  Grease the tube with waterproof automotive grease. The compass and mounting base must be removed to service the wheel steering mechanism.  Refer to the Edson owner's manual for maintenance procedures. Needle bearing located in the wheel shaft in the pedestal bowl need lubricating with Teflon lubricant through the holes located on top of the bearing housing.  Spin the wheel while lubricating to insure that the entire bearing is reached.  Winch grease or water pump grease may be substituted but Teflon lubricant is preferred.  Be cautious that the lubricant does not run off onto the friction brake pads. The stainless wire cable is connected to the wheel steering system by means of a roller chain that rides over a sprocket and to the drive wheel by two eye bolts.  Lubricate the wire with oil on facial tissue.  Any breaks or burrs on the wire will be flagged by tearing off a piece of the tissue.  Replace a damaged wire immediately and discard. ...
  • Page 34 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual effect this alignment.  A squeaking noise when the wheel is used indicates the idler pulleys need lubrication with SAE 30 oil, as grease will not penetrate the links. Every two years the rudder should be removed and a close inspection given to all parts for bending, wear or other signs of strain.  Replace any worn parts. 15:00 STEERING SYSTEM (Cont'd) 15:05    (cont'd) There is meant to be a slight space between the rudder stock and the upper and lower bushings.  This allows a space for grease to lubricate.  A grease cup is fitted onto each bushing to replenish this grease.  A half turn during each monthly inspection will keep the post well lubricated.  Yearly or as needed, the spring loaded cups should be refilled with a good grade of waterproof automotive grease. The fiberglass bushings are designed to absorb wear which will eventually necessitate repair of their lining.  (Refer to the Edson Catalog in the manufacturer's binder for additional steering information) 16:00 ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS An engine owner's manual has been supplied with your boat and should be read thoroughly before first operating the engine.  The manual contains running instructions, technical specifications, maintenance schedules and information on replacement parts and fluids.  The single most important factor affecting engine life is the attention paid to routing preventive maintenance. 16:01    AUXILIARY ENGINE:  The engine foundation is a rigid fiberglass reinforced bed.  It is designed to withstand the forward thrust of the propeller while supporting the weight of the engine under a variety of positions inflicted by the sea.  The engine is secured to this bed with a series of rubberized motor mounts.  These specialized devices absorb vibration and cushion any movement the engine attempts to make. The engine is accessible from a variety of locations.  The galley top is removable on all models which provides a large overhead area of access.   The wastebasket and galley face drawers must first be removed.  Removing the companionway steps and a variety of access panels and doors allows access from many angles.  Access to the aft side of the engine, stuffing box and coupling is gained through the cockpit locker.  A removable mahogany plywood panel protects this area and mechanisms from gear stored in the locker.  For extensive work or removal, front panels of the galley may be removed by unscrewing the attachment cleats in the engine compartment. 16:02    BEFORE STARTING ENGINE:  Each time before starting the engine it is necessary to do the following: 1.    Run engine compartment blower for at least four minutes to exhaust any possible fuel fumes.  An explosion is possible if this procedure is not followed. 2.    Check sea water strainer for debris and clean if necessary.
  • Page 35 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 16:03    AFTER STARTING ENGINE:  Each time after starting engine it is important to immediately check the following: 1.    Check for normal oil pressure.  Shut down engine if normal oil pressure is not present within 15 seconds of starting. 2.    Check immediately for sea water flow through the transom exhaust port. 3.    If oil has just been changed, stop the engine and check crankcase oil level.  This is important as it may be necessary to add oil to compensate for oil which fills internal oil passages and the oil filter. 4.    If transmission fluid has just been changed, check this level also. 5.    Be aware of engine operating temperature periodically during operation. CAUTION:  NEVER SHUT OFF BATTERY SWITCH WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING AS SERIOUS ALTERNATOR DAMAGE WILL RESULT. 16:04    STOPPING THE ENGINE:  Before stopping the engine it should be allowed to idle for a few minutes while in neutral.   This will help dissipate some of the heat from operation. 16:05    OIL CHANGE:  Change oil and other engine fluids according to the recommendations in the engine owner's manual.   Check oil in the reverse gear to avoid damage to the gears and increase clutch life.  Warming up the engine as described in Section 16:06, before draining the oil will facilitate clutch life. 16:06    ENGINE CONDENSATION:  At all times, regardless of frequency of operation, it is not good practice to operate the engine for only a short period of time.  Whenever the engine is used it should be kept running for at least 15 minutes after it has warmed up to full operating temperature.   Using the engine for just a few minutes does not warm the engine sufficiently to overcome normal condensation, especially in cold weather. This will result in internal corrosion of the engine, and is the main cause of sticky valves.  The engine warranty does not cover this misuse of the engine. 16:07    ENGINE LAYUP:  If the engine is not used for a month or so, it is well to "Fog" the engine with oil through the air intake, and to place oil in the cylinders as described in the engine manual.   This is necessary to overcome the effects of salt air backing up the exhaust systems and into the cylinders through an open exhaust valve. 16:00 ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS (Cont'd) 16:08    ENGINE CLEANOUT:  It is recommended practice to occasionally run the engine at full power for a minimum of five minutes to clean out moisture and carbon accumulations. 16:09    CRUISING SPEED:  A one­third throttle setting will provide a cruising speed of 5 1/2 knots; whereas full throttle will provide a maximum speed of only just over 6 knots due to the hull speed limitations of a boat this size.  Do not abuse the engine and the boat by driving the engine excessively hard. 16:10    SHIFT LEVER LOCATION:  Volvo engines should be left in forward and Westerbeke engines should be left in reverse when sailing.  Always leave engine in neutral when not...
  • Page 36 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 16:12    ENGINE GAUGE CONDENSATION:   This is very common as the damp marine environment makes some condensation unavoidable.  Condensation does not reduce the effective life of the gauge and it does not affect the gauge's accuracy.  Although at times, it does make the gauge hard to read. Condensation occurs when relatively warm and moist air from a boat's interior strikes the cooler lens of the gauge.  Cooler air cannot support as much water vapor as warm air, so the moisture is precipitated on the lens. The gauges are not vapor­proof, and it would be prohibitively expensive to make them that way. 16:13    WINTERIZING:  Refer to engine Owner's Manual and Section 30:00 for complete winterizing details. 16:14    ENGINE WIRING:  Refer to engine wiring diagrams in the back of this manual. 17:00 DRIVE SHAFT AND PROPELLER SYSTEM The parts in this system are specifically selected for their application and any replacement must be with identical parts, or those approved by Sabre Yachts.  (Refer to I­ 17:01    OFFSET PROPELLERS:  Sabre yachts are built with propeller shafts offset to port or starboard depending on engine rotation.  Engines with clockwise rotation (right hand) have shafts offset to port. After extensive research it was found that for this hull type an offset propeller benefited engine performance and handling characteristics. Sabre rudders are partially balanced with the rudder shaft about 15% aft of its leading edge.  This feature reduces the load on the helm and makes it more comfortable to hold while under sail.  The powerful wash of a centerline propeller causes the helm to veer to one side or the other after a turn is initiated.   The offset propeller wash to flow to the side of the rudder.  A second benefit is that the angle between the shaft and the fore and aft axis of the boat is less than would be possible with a centerline installed shaft. 17:02    ENGINE ALIGNMENT:  Engine alignments should be carried out by experienced marine service personnel.  While we do not recommend that you attempt alignment yourself, there follows a brief description so that you may become familiar with the procedure and better understand its importance.   (Refer to I­09) Careful alignment is critical to the performance of the auxiliary engine.  An array of problems from excessive vibration and noise to extensive wear of engine parts may occur as a result of misalignment. Engines must be properly and exactly aligned with the propeller shaft.  The engine is aligned when first installed then disconnected for transportation and launching.  Boats may change shape very slightly upon launching and rigging.  It is therefore necessary to align the engine to the shaft after launching, rigging, and tuning.  Preferably fuel and water tanks should be about half full and the usual equipment on board so the load does not drastically change.
  • Page 37 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual shaft.  Then, with the engine in neutral, the shaft half coupling is held stationary and the engine half coupling rotated and checked. After being in the water for two or three weeks the alignment should be checked again.  At this time further adjustment is usually found to be necessary as the boat takes some time to assume its final shape. Never attempt a final alignment while the boat is still on land. 17:03    STUFFING BOX ASSEMBLY:  The stuffing box is critical to your boat's safety and performance.  It depends on an age­old method of using wax­impregnated flax cord to create a water barrier that self­ lubricates by allowing water to pass through at a controlled rate.  The rate of water passage should be inspected frequently to ensure proper performance.  (Refer to I­11) The stuffing box is connected to the shaft log tube by means of a flexible rubber tube held in place by hose clamps.  The clamps should be tight at all times and no water should pass from this location. A slight drip from the stuffing box at the location where the shaft exits is acceptable and necessary for cooling and lubrication.  One or two drops every thirty seconds while the engine is running is average.  Excessive dripping should be attended to by loosening the lock nut and tightening the gland nut 1/4 turn, then secure again with lock nut.  If excessive leaking continues after adjusting the gland nut and running the engine for several hours, new packing is indicated. Packing must be replaced with the boat out of the water.   Loosen the lock nut, remove the gland nut and pull out the old packing.  Cut a piece of 1/4 inch packing, available at marine stores, 10 1/2 inches long and wrap it firmly around the shaft just above the stuffing box.  Replace the gland nut, tighten 1/4 turn past hand­tight and lock with the lock nut.  After the boat is launched, run engine and observe stuffing box leakage.  Adjust as necessary. 17:00 DRIVE SHAFT AND PROPELLER SYSTEM (Cont'd) 17:04    PROPELLERS:  Two blade solid bronze propellers are standard on all yachts.  Folding propellers offer the least amount of drag when under sail power and are preferred by the serious racer. FOLDING PROPELLERS:  Interference can occur with the leading edge of the rudder when a folding propeller is installed on the Sabre 34.   Refer to Section 17:08 before installing a folding propeller on a Sabre 34.   Please refer to Part 4 of the Sabre Limited Warranty before installing a folding propeller. 17:05    PROPELLER REMOVAL:  For folding and solid propellers, a wheel puller or propeller puller is required. For a folding propeller, remove all cotter pins from the pivot and shaft nut.  Knock out the blade pivot pin with the punch and hammer.  Remove blades.  Remove shaft nut, which is countersunk into the propeller hub, with a socket drive extension.
  • Page 38 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual ends of the cutlass bearing.  If worn, replacement is necessary.  Propeller shafts must be perfectly straight.  Bent shafts can cause vibrations, misalignment, excessive stuffing box leakage, wear of the cutlass bearing and extensive engine damage.  (Refer also to Section 30:03)  The shaft is 1" in diameter with a 1/4" key and standard taper except for Sabre 28's with the Atomic Four engine which has a 7/8" diameter shaft. It is advisable to lock the propeller shaft while sailing by leaving the engine in gear when shut off.  With solid propellers, it is felt that the least amount of drag will occur when the blades are locked in a position which has them in line with the strut.  This can best be done be adjusting the propeller to such a position on land by turning it with the engine in neutral.  Mark with paint a point on the shaft coupling 17:00 DRIVE SHAFT AND PROPELLER SYSTEM (Cont'd) adjacent to a reference point on the engine.  The propeller can then be moved to this position and locked in place by putting the engine in gear.   Volvo engines should be left in forward and Westerbeke engines should be left in reverse when sailing.  (Refer also to Section 16:10) With folding propeller, the preferred position is with the blades vertical when closed.  This will prevent a blade from hanging open since they are designed to close by the force of water under sail, while in the horizontal position. 18:00 FUEL SYSTEM Great care has been taken in the selection and installation of parts related to the fuel system.  Caution is advised during any procedure affecting this system in order to maintain the integrity of the safety built­in.  (Refer to I­17) 18:01    DECK FILL PLATE:  A deck fill plate and cover are mounted flush with the deck.  Use only the spanner wrench provided to remove or install the cover. 18:02    FUEL TANK:  The aluminum fuel tank is vented through a flexible rubber hose that extends from the  top of the tank to a screened vent at the stern.  The screen should be checked periodically for insects or debris with could obstruct venting and therefor prevent the flow of fuel. The fuel lift pump has a capacity in excess of that required by the injector pump.  The overflow is piped back into the fuel tank. The deck fill plate, fuel tank and engine are all connected to the grounding system.  (Refer to Section 22:00 for further information) 18:03    SHUT OFF VALVE:  A fuel shut off valve is located on the side of the galley facing the quarter berth.  The handle is vertical when open and horizontal when closed.  Keep this valve closed at all times when the engine is not in use. 18:04    FUEL FILTERS:  A dependable supply of clean diesel fuel is necessary to insure satisfactory operation of the engine. Cleanliness and care are important to all aspects of the fuel system and special care against contamination during fueling should be used.

Page 39: Exhaust System

Page 40: electrical system ­ 12 volt, page 41: electrical system ­ 110 volt.

  • Page 42 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual keeps all fittings at the same electrical potential to minimize the effects of any galvanic or electrical corrosion which may occur. Any additional underwater hardware installed on the boat must be tied in to the bonding system to maintain proper operation and protection from corrosion. The integrity and operation of the system should be checked each year at launching and hauling times. Refer to the lightening protection and bonding system diagrams in the back of the Owners Manual for the wiring details of your boat. 22:02    LIGHTENING PROTECTION SYSTEM:   The lightening protection system provides a "cone" of protection around the boat in the even of a lightening storm.  Grounding wires of #8 gauge copper connect all chain plates and the mast step to the keel. The integrity of the lightening ground system should be checked regularly.  Inspect all wire and terminal connections at the mast step, all chainplates and the keep for tightness and signs of corrosion. Lightening strikes are unpredictable, so due caution during a storm is advised. Allow no one in the water during an electrical storm.  Remain inside the boat and avoid making contact with any large metal objects such as the mast, shrouds, stanchions, bow pulpit, stern rail or any of the items connects to the lightening grounding system, especially in such a way as to bridge between any of these items. If a boat is struck by lightening, there is likely to be damage to delicate electronic instruments due to a high voltage­low ampere surge of electricity through the boat.  If a boat is struck by lightening, compasses and electrical gear must be checked for damage and/or change in calibration. Refer to the lightening protection and bonding system diagrams in the back of the Owners Manual for the wiring details of your boat. 23:00 UNDERWATER CORROSION Corrosion of underwater hardware is most often caused by galvanic action or induced by stray electrical current.  This condition is often referred to as "Electrolysis".  To minimize the risk of these types of corrosion, Sabre Yachts uses careful design, material selection and inspection.  In spite of our best efforts, you may find that your Sabre has a corrosion problem.  The following background material has been prepared to assist you in stopping the corrosion. 23:01    GALVANIC CORROSION:  Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dis­similar metals are in physical contact with each other in sea water.  The electrical potential between the two metals causes a current to flow from one to the other.  Each Sabre is equipped with underwater hardware of similar metals in the galvanic series with additional corrosion protection being provided by a heavy duty bonding system.  Sacrificial zinc anodes should be used as a means of protecting large pieces of underwater hardware, such as propellers and shafts.
  • Page 43 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual NOTE: Any damaged or frayed wire must be repaired or replaced.     ­ Wiring at 12 volt DC switch panel at the companionway.     ­ Terminal strip in starboard electrical access panel.     ­ All ground wires in starboard electrical access panel.     ­ Wiring at engine gauges.     ­ Engine wiring connections.     ­ Battery cable connections at batteries and main disconnect switch.     ­ Wiring at engine ignition panel in the cockpit.     ­ Mast wiring plug(s) at mast step and base of mast.  Both plugs should be disassembled and cleaned.  Salt deposits which can cause shorting are very common in this area.     ­ Wiring for all optional equipment, such as VHF radios, stereos, bilge pumps, etc. 23:00 UNDERWATER CORROSION (Cont'd) NOTE:  Optional equipment that was not factory installed must be wired with proper switches, over­current protection and grounding.  All switches must be installed on the positive (+) side of the circuit with grounding being accomplished through the 12 volt DC system to the batteries. Unusual corrosion or deposits found at a wire connection or piece of equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and the equipment checked for proper operation and possible electrical leaks. Equipment showing signs of malfunctioning or intermittent operation must also be checked.  This would include something as seemingly minor as an anchor light flickering on and off at the top of the mast, indicating a loose connection or short circuit. 23:03    BONDING AND LIGHTENING GROUND SYSTEM:   Check the entire bonding and lightening ground systems to assure that they are intact and functioning properly.  The purpose of the bonding systems is to protect the underwater hardware from corrosion by providing a low resistance path to ground for any stray electrical currents which may develop on the boat.  All underwater hardware is tied together with a wiring system which terminates at one or two common ground terminals on a keel bolt in the bilge.  The integrity and operation of the bonding system can be checked by using an ohmmeter to assure that each underwater fitting is bonded to the keel.  The ohmmeter must register "0" resistance for each fitting.  The "Lightening Protection and Bonding System" diagram will help in locating all fittings and hardware connected to the bonding system.  If little or no contact is found between a fitting and the keel, connections at each end of the wire must be checked and the wire replaced if necessary.  Particular attention should be paid to the engine to keel bonding conductor.  Our experience indicates that a poor ground connection here can often allow a stray current to leave the boat by way of the propeller shaft. PROPELLER AND SHAFT CORROSION:  Propeller and shaft corrosion are one of the most common results of of a stray current situation.  Since the propeller and shaft are such large...

Page 44: Fresh Water System

Page 45: drainage system and seacocks, page 46: head and disposal systems, page 47: stove system, page 48: optional equipment and electronics.

  • Page 49 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual 30:03    CUTLASS BEARING:  The shaft strut contains a rubber type bearing which lubricates the support of the shaft.  At haul out, be sure the bearing slots are clear and apply silicone lubricant or castor oil to the bearing to preserve it's suppleness.  Replace shaft zinc if necessary. 30:04    FRESHWATER SYSTEM:  This system is best winterized with one of the antifreezes available for use in boat and recreational freshwater systems.  It is an easy method which insures that no pure water is left in the system to freeze. If there is a hot water heater on board, allow heater to cool and open the pressure release valve on top.  Disconnect the hot and cold water hoses and allow the tank to drain either in a bucket or into the bilge.  Connect and clamp the hot and cold water hoses together using a short length of 1/2" pipe in order to bypass the heater. Mix the appropriate amounts of antifreeze and water, as directed on the label, to deliver the degree of protection desired.  Put 1 1/2 to 2 gallons of the solution into each water tank. If your boat is equipped with two water tanks, turn selector valve to the auxiliary tank and pump the antifreeze solution through each of the nonpressurized outlets. Use the foot pump in the galley and head and pump until antifreeze is seen coming out of each faucet.  If a manual shower hook­up is installed, open that fixture and pump until antifreeze runs through. Switch selector valve to other water tank and if only one tank is aboard, carry out the above procedure using that one tank. If a pressurized water system is installed, turn on the pump and open all fixtures until antifreeze runs through.  Be sure to open the hot water selector valve in order to supply antifreeze to the hot water hoses and through the bypass loop. 30:00 WINTERIZING (Cont'd) At this point the freshwater system should be completely protected by antifreeze against freezing to a degree indicated by the strength of the solution placed into the supply tanks. New boats delivered in winter have their freshwater systems filled with antifreeze as described above and are protected to ­30 degrees. 30:05    WASTE DISCHARGE SYSTEM:   Several days before completing haulout procedures, fresh water should be allowed to stand in the head unit to dissolve any salt accumulation in the hoses and pump.   Remove all water from the head unit.  Special lubricants for the pump's internal mechanism are available.  Check with your marine hardware dealer for a recommended brand.  Never put oil, gas, kerosene or alcohol into the head or they will ruin the internal valves. If a holding tank is aboard, completely pump out all waste and pour in a cleansing, deodorizing solution.  Allow this to site in the tank overnight if possible, then completely pump out and drain the entire system.  If antifreeze is used in the system,...

Page 50: Winterizing

  • Page 51 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual DECK HARDWARE ­ TOE RAIL TOE RAIL, RUB RAIL, DECK TO HULL ASSEMBLY 51/81...
  • Page 52 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual DECK HARDWARE ­ RIGGING MAST STEP ASSEMBLY STEERING ­ TILLER RUDDER AND TILLER ASSEMBLY 52/81...
  • Page 53 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual STEERING ­ WHEEL RUDDER AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY 53/81...
  • Page 54 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual DECK HARDWARE ­ SAFETY STANCHION POST ASSEMBLY PLUMBING ­ THRU HULLS COCKPIT DRAIN ASSEMBLY 54/81...
  • Page 55 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual DECK HARDWARE ­ RIGGING GENOA TRACK INSTALLATION 55/81...
  • Page 56 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual DECK HARDWARE ­ RIGGING GENOA TRACK ASSEMBLY DECK HARDWARE ­ RIGGING GENOA TRACK INSTALLATION 56/81...
  • Page 57 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual DECK HARDWARE ­ RIGGING CHAINPLATE ASSEMBLY 57/81...
  • Page 58 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual PLUMBING ­ THRU HULLS THRU HULL AND SEACOCK INSTALLATION AUXILIARY POWER ­ SHAFT COUPLING SHAFT LOG AND COUPLING ASSEMBLY KEELS ­ GENERAL 58/81...
  • Page 59 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual KEEL TO HULL INSTALLATION PLUMBING ­ THRU HULL DRAINAGE GALLEY SINK, ICE BOX DRAINAGE SYSTEM 59/81...
  • Page 60 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual LIFTING AND STORAGE ­ SLINGS SUGGESTED LIFTING STRAP LOCATIONS STEERING ­ WHEEL RUDDER POST AND DRIVE WHEEL ASSEMBLY 60/81...
  • Page 61 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual AUXILIARY POWER ­ PROP, SHAFT, STRUT PROP, SHAFT, STRUT ASSEMBLY AUXILIARY POWER ­ FUEL SYSTEM FUEL SYSTEM 61/81...
  • Page 62 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual AUXILIARY POWER ­ COOLING + EXHAUST ENGINE EXHAUST AND WATER INTAKE SYSTEM AUXILIARY POWER ­ COOLING + EXHAUST HEAT TRANSFER SYSTEM 62/81...
  • Page 63 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual PLUMBING ­ WASTE WATER SYSTEM HEAD AND HOLDING TANK PLUMBING ­ WASTE WATER SYSTEM HEAD, HOLDING TANK, "Y" VALVE AND SEACOCK 63/81...
  • Page 64 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual PLUMBING ­ WASTE WATER SYSTEM HEAD, HOLDING TANK W/PUMPOUT, "Y" VALVE AND SEACOCK PLUMBING ­ WASTE WATER SYSTEMS LECTRA/SAN WASTE TREATMENT SYSTEM 64/81...
  • Page 65 3/21/2017 Sabre 30 Owners Manual DECK HARDWARE ­ GENERAL RATELCO STOVE PIPE DECK ­ LINER INSTALLATION RIGGING ­ RUNNING RIGGING JIFFY REEFING DETAIL 65/81...
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  • Sailboat Reviews

The smallest Sabre is a performance cruiser with an all-wood interior. It’s done well in some ocean races, though it’s too heavy to be flat-out fast.

Established in Casco, Maine, in 1970, Sabre has built more than 2,000 boats, having survived a reorganization precipitated at least in part by high interest rates during the early 1990’s.

Roger Hewson, a transplanted Canadian engineer who raced International 14s, formed the company when he opened a small shop and began building the Sabre 28 pocket cruiser of his own design. He introduced the company’s first boat at the Newport Boat Show in 1971.

Building on that foundation, Hewson designed and produced Sabre sailboats and SabreLine power boats, ranging in size from 28′-42′. A traditional thinker with a penchant for speed, he favored boats that were pleasing to the eye, finely finished, livable, required little maintenance, and maintained high resale values.

Faced with excessive debt and high interest rates, the company was reorganized in 1994 with new ownership, led by a group of experienced business executives who have a keener eye for the intricacies of the financial marketplace than most builders. It has prospered under their direction.

“We have one of the strongest balance sheets in the business, a small mortgage on the buildings, and no other debt,” company spokesman Bentley Collins told us. It now operates in two manufacturing facilities; sailboats are produced in a 65,000- square-foot facility by 120 employees. Gross sales for 1998 are estimated at $17 million.

Collins said one of the company’s strengths is the fact that most employees have been cross-trained to work in all phases of production. More than one-third have been with the company for more than 10 years, many for more than two decades.

The building process is divided into six segments, during which each boat receives a 600-point inspection. The final inspection is by a member of top management.

The Design With Hewson’s departure, responsibility for the design of new boats was given to Jim Taylor, a designer in Marblehead with more than 30 years’ experience. His credentials range from the design of daysailers to the Admiral’s Cup boat, Numbers, and membership in the design team that created the 1992 America’s Cup winner.

Taylor is responsible for designing the hulls, underwater appendages and rig plans, while the Sabre Design Team develops the interior accommodations and deck layouts.

The company’s design philosophy is to build contemporary, comfortable cruisers with a turn of speed. Collins estimates that most owners have more than 15 years’ experience, and that 15% race their boats.

To keep in tune with owner sentiment, Sabre surveys its customers and responds to input in several ways. While existing models are in production, upgrades and modifications are made. For example, 47 changes have been made to the 362 since the first boat was launched. A keel/centerboard is now an option, and newer 362’s have $79 light fixtures instead of the original $12 cheapies. Also, design changes are made when molds begin to deteriorate.

“We know that after about 100 boats are produced from a mold we will be faced with retooling costs,” Collins said. “When we reach that point we consider a new design that reflects the current conditions in the marketplace.”

Such was the case with the 362, which followed in the footsteps of the Sabre 36. The 36 (hulls #1-#106 ) was produced from 1985 to 1990; the 362 was introduced in 1993 with hull #107. Though changes were subtle, the 362 is a faster boat with more space belowdecks, and has reconfigured accommodations. Hence, a swim platform is an option.

“The most significant difference between the design of the 36 and 362 is that the 36 was influenced by the IOR rule and the 362 by the company’s desire to produce cruisers with modern hull shapes,” Taylor said. To that end, he designed a boat that is suitable for racing under newer, circa-1992 IMS rules.

“The 362 has a fuller stern, which creates more volume in the interior, and shorter overhangs,” he said. “But the biggest difference is in the righting moment, which is 23% more than the Sabre 36,” a function of additional beam and lower center of gravity. The redesigned keel is 12% deeper and produces greater lift, which translates to better pointing ability.

Additionally, the rudder is larger and deeper, and has an elliptical shape. The redesigned skeg is smaller and shallower.

The 362, only 2″ longer on the deck, is more than 1′ longer on the waterline, which translates to increased speed. The bow is more plumb, and has a finer entry. Beam was also increased 1′. Displacement was increased 600 lbs. The displacement/length (D/L) ratio is 219.

Among Taylor design targets was a sailplan to “allow a full mainsail and 150% genoa to be comfortably carried up to 14 knots of wind.” Sail area was increased from 612 to 634 sq. ft. in the masthead rig. The mast has been moved forward and the J dimension reduced by more than a foot, which results in smaller headsails.

The boom is more than 1′ longer, making for a larger mainsail, but most owners manage it by opting for full-batten mainsails and some type of lazy jack system. The sail area/displacement (SA/D) ratio is 17.3.

The boat’s limit of positive stability is about 118°, close to the 120° number we consider a minimum.

The Hall Spar mast is a straight aluminum section supported by double swept airfoil-shaped spreaders. A tapered mast is a $900 option that reduces weight aloft only negligibly, Taylor said. In his opinion, a boom vang and backstay adjuster would have a greater affect on performance.

Standard equipment includes internal main and genoa halyards, three halyard sheaves and a spinnaker crane. The upper shrouds are 9/32″ wire, intermediates are 1/4″, and lowers are 5/16″.

Taylor’s performance prediction program (“polars”) indicate that the boat’s best upwind performance will be in 10-plus knots of breeze, sailing at 44° to true wind at 6-plus knots. Best downwind speeds are attained in 16 knots of wind at 173° of true wind angle.

In competition, the 362 has finished first in class in the Annapolis-Bermuda, and Daytona-Bermuda races. The PHRF handicap in most areas is 108.

Construction Because a lightweight speed demon was not a criterion for the 362, more attention is given to producing a strong hull and deck structure than to counting ounces of resin and fiberglass.

The hull and deck are cored, laid up by hand using a different schedule than most manufacturers: The bottom is balsa-cored to the waterline, except on the centerline, where it is reinforced with eight layers of overlapping bi-axial and unidirectional reinforcing cloth to provide impact resistance and reinforcement for the keel and skeg. The engine bed is constructed of plywood stringers with threaded steel caps encased in fiberglass into which engine bolts are threaded.

The hull is further stiffened by installation of furniture components and cabinetry, all of which are tabbed to the hull. We think this method produces a stronger, quieter and more accessible structure than installation of pre-molded pans.

Topsides are solid fiberglass, the major difference between Sabre and other maufacturers who want stiffness in the large unsupported panels of the topsides, and don’t want the risk of wet balsa below the waterline. Sabre’s reasoning is that balsa stiffens the high load panels of the underwater hull, but because it sells mostly dark-colored hulls, it’s use in the topsides too often causes print through.

In the deck, marine mahogany plywood replaces the balsa in high load areas and where deck fittings and hardware are to be installed.

Vinylester resin under the ISO NPG gelcoat provides a superior moisture barrier; Sabre calls its protection system Duralam™. The company warrants that “all fiberglass hulls will be free from structural defects under normal use” for 10 years, and “the gelcoat below the waterline of all fiberglass hulls manufactured by it against premature weathering or deterioration” for five years.

The hull-deck joint is the same internal flange used on Hewson’s first boats. The deck is bonded to the flange with 3M 5200, and fastened with stainless steel bolts on 6″ centers.

The mast is stepped on the keel, and shrouds are attached to stainless steel deck chainplate fittings bedded in solid fiberglass and through-bolted to backing plates with 3/8″ bolts. Belowdecks, Navtec rod is attached to the lower section of the deckplate; its lower end is bolted to a 4″ wide stainless steel chainplate secured to the hull using 1/2″ bolts.

The company discovered a design flaw in the rudder when one failed during an ocean race. It then recalled the first 86 produced.

“The original rudder called for two pieces of schedule 80 stainless pipe to be welded one inside the other. The breakage occurred at the weld,” Collins said. The company’s response was to reconstruct the rudder using carbon fiber and to retrofit boats at no cost to the owner. Because of the system used to number Sabre boats, hulls with retrofitted rudders bear numbers 107-191.

One owner described the company’s action as “absolutely amazing. I didn’t know there was a problem until they wrote me. Sabre handled the problem with the local yard and it didn’t cost me a dime or five minutes of my time.”

One 362 owner whose profession is the installation of heating and wiring systems in boats was critical of the difficulties encountered in the installation of an engine-driven refrigeration system, forced air heating, and autopilot.

“It takes a small, nimble person to work in the confines of the aft section to install an autopilot,” he said, “and it is difficult to find spaces to run copper tubing for refrigeration or air ducts for a heater.”

Deck Layout Standard deck hardware is supplied by Lewmar, Schaefer and Harken.

The newest boats have two more Lewmar Ocean Series deck hatches than early models. The first models had hatches over the saloon and forward berth; newer models add hatches over the head and galley. Additional lighting comes from four fixed Lexan portlights in the main cabin and opening ports in the main, aft and forward cabins and head.

Typical of modern boats, halyards are all led aft from the mast. The main halyard is led through a turning block to a Lewmar #30 self-tailing winch. The first boats had smaller winches, but Lewmar 30’s became standard equipment with the 1994 model year. The genoa halyard was led to a winch on the mast until 1997, when it was re-led to a Lewmar #30 self-tailer that doubles as the winch for the mainsheet when the halyard is stoppered off.

The mainsheet arrangement is a five-part system anchored by a Harken traveler mounted on the cabin top and Schaefer stainless steel blocks. The traveler is at the forward edge of the companionway, which makes it difficult to reach from the helm (a consideration when short-handed). This also makes the fitting of a dodger somewhat tricky. Primary winches are Lewmar 48 self-tailers located within reach of the helmsman. Boats are also equipped with a two-line jiffy reefing system led to the same winch as the main halyard.

The 40″ destroyer wheel takes up little space, and can be helmed from a seat directly aft or from either corner in the cockpit.

“I’m only five feet tall but can steer from the side of the cockpit easily,” one female owner said.

The cockpit is 7′ 5″ long and provides adequate space for six crew, plus two deep storage lockers.

Stanchions are double braced at the gates, and bow and stern rails are through-bolted and backed with aluminum plates. There is a good handrail around three sides of the companionway hatch

During our test sail, we confirmed that turning blocks and winches are positioned in locations that allow for easy sheeting by trimmers without interfering with the comfort of guests.

Accommodations Spaces belowdecks have been completely rearranged and are more spacious and comfortable than on the earlier 36, a reflection of the additional interior volume. Headroom in the saloon is 6′ 4″.

The interior is accented by varnished cherry wood, a teak and holly sole and 4-1/2″ thick foam cushions upholstered with removable covers.

Sleeping arrangements provide privacy for four persons in two compartments. The forward cabin has a 78″ x 73″ V-berth, vanity sink, mirror and storage lockers. The aft stateroom has a 77″ x 60″ double berth.

The starboard settee converts to a double berth measuring 78″ x 55″, the single to port is 76″ x 26″, so it is possible to sleep seven adults.

The dining table, mounted on the forward bulkhead, provides seating for five. Storage is behind and below the settees and in cabinets.

The galley is L-shaped below the companionway and features a double stainless steel sink, two-burner propane stove, ice box, dry locker and hot and cold pressure water. Additional stowage is outboard in cabinets.

One couple that cruises the boat for two weeks a year said, “Our biggest complaint is the size of the ice box. It’s smallish, so we are forced to stop frequently for ice.”

If there’s an apparent compromise in favor of comfort versus utility, it’s between the large head and small nav station. The head is divided into two compartments, one 36″ wide for the sink and Raritan PH II toilet, the other 30″ wide for the shower. Hence, the nav station seat is the end of a settee, located just forward of the head, and faces aft without a backrest. There’s adequate room for a typical array of instruments (VHF, GPS, AM/FM stereo, radar, repeaters), shelving for books, two drawers and room for charts under the hinged lid.

Performance We sailed in relatively flat waters in wind speeds ranging from 9-14 knots true and found her to be stiff, seakindly, and quick to maneuver through a tack. Boat speed reached 5.8 knots sailing into 12-inch wind waves at 35° to apparent wind, and increased to 6- plus knots when we footed off 5°. She was comfortable heeling at 15°. Performance suffered somewhat from the high-clewed roller furling genoa on our test boat.

When wind speed reached 14 knots we sailed to weather for several miles at 6.5-7 knots. Wind speed instruments registered a sailing angle of 47° to the true wind, and the hull moved effortlessly through the small chop.

We like the position of the wheel, which allowed us to keep an eye on the telltales from leeward, and to sit high and dry on the weather rail. Though there’s a steering seat directly aft of the wheel, it will be most often used when motoring.

Taylor’s performance predictions estimate boat speed at 7.3 knots sailing downwind at 173° to the true wind, which we figure she’d easily top with a spinnaker.

A vang, adjustable backstay and spinnaker gear are easy add-ons that will enhance performance.

An owner who sails in San Francisco’s blustery conditions said, “In 25 knots of wind we put a single reef in the main and she sails great. She’s stiff and dry and has no weather helm.” He sails downwind in those conditions at 9 knots under a high-clewed 120% genoa.

“She also does not hobbyhorse when we are sailing to weather on the ocean,” he added.

Conclusion Taylor’s experience as a designer of high performance yachts has been translated to a fast boat with a manageable sail plan. Accommodations are in keeping with the company’s reputation for building proper yachts with all-wood interiors.

The base price for the Sabre 362 is $169,900, fob Casco, Maine, an increase of $35,000 since it was first introduced. Much of the increase reflects upgrades in standard equipment. This makes it slightly more expensive than the $159,900 Alerion Express 38 reviewed last month, considerably more expensive than a Beneteau of the same length, and less expensive than a quality European boat. However you peg it, the combination of performance and quality construction should deliver high resale value, which must be considered in any equation measuring the cost of ownership.

Contact- Sabre Corporation, Hawthorne Rd., Box 134, South Casco, ME 04077; 207/655-3831.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Good Morning, (1998/36′ – Sabre) I had to replace a section of my hull, and disconnected all drain hoses in the cabin. I have reconnected all of the hoses except for one. It is one of the three that connect back through the white rectangular bin with the filter in it. If I were to send a photo, could you tell me which hose I am missing?

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Columbia 33 Sabre

  • Thread starter Terry Goodin
  • Start date Nov 26, 2002
  • Brand-Specific Forums

Terry Goodin

I am looking at a Columbia 33 Sabre model. Does anyone know anything about this boat ? I found some info. on a website to indicate the boat was originally built for the Olympics, before fiberglass was banned. Are they dependable boats ? What about creature comforts ? Thanks  

Scott Pasley

Re: I am purchasing one of these boats as well. You can get a lot of information from the columbia owners website and also by joining the yahoo group (do a search on yahoo..columbia owners group). From all that i have read they are great boats and if you are doing any PRHF racing they have an average per of around 192 in the PRHF book but race more like a 170.  

sabre info The Sabre is really a 5.5 meter hull with a cabin on it. The 5.5 was an olympic class and limited entirely to wood hulls. These boats were state of the art at the the time and VERY expensive to build. Columbia took a gamble that the Olympics would start allowing fiberglass hulls and created the 5.5 mold. In the end the olympic commitee decided not to allow glass 5.5's and columbia was stuck with the mold.They added a cabin to the hull and called it the sabre in the hopes they could sell more boats. They built close to 150 of them before selling the design to Erickson who changed the transom ,making it angle in instead of out such as on the sabre. Ericson built roughly 28 hulls and called them the "Scorpion" before stopping production. The sabre is actually constructed of solid glass,only the deck is cored. They are built in two halves then glassed together.Finally the cabin top is tabbed to the hull. This is a very fast boat I've averaged just under eight knots just off the wind. She loves to stand on her ear and develops very little weather helm(god help you if you fall over single handing because she'll keep on sailing). The main weakness with the Sabre is downwind performance. She has a small rudder direcly behind the keel which limits steerage dead downwind (and under power). There's a fellow in Lake of the Ozarks who added three inches to the rudder to try and compensate for this but I dont think he's tried her out yet. The other drawback is the fact that you cannot sail her under Main alone. She needs the jib to come off the wind and balance the rig.I have sailed in 30 knots with a reefed main only,but even here You need to tack quickly and use boat speed to get off the wind,and your still left with alot of helm. I hope this has been of some help. If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me at [email protected]  

Paul Lieblich

Also looking at Columbia Sabres Terry, I am also looking at a Columbia Sabre here on the east coast. What do you know about the engines on these boats, the one that I am looking at does not have one. What would one do about that. One guy told me the boat points well, is pretty fast, not much headroom in the galley ( I can see that). I'm looking at a 1966, the owner is asking for $6,000 but will negotiate. My "adviser" said to offer about $3,000. The current owner says that he replaced the wood in the deck and that it is now good and stiff. If you know of anyplace I can get more info I'd appreciate hearing from you.  

Columbia Sabre engine needed John, I read your feedback on the Columbia Sabre. I too am looking at a 1966 version. It’s a very classy looking boat, nice lines and at least looks fast. The big question for me right now is that the boat does not have an engine. The owner has glassed over the hole where the drive comes out through the hull. Do you know anything about how one could “reengine” this boat. According to the current owner he says that he has not been able to find a replacement drive unit for what was in there. I think the main problem was that this drive unit went and I gather he got rid of the whole lot, engine and drive unit. He mentioned something a Honda engine but could not be too specific. Also the guy at the local marine supply/shipyard says that he was not able to find a dealer to equip the power plant on this boat. Any leads or ideas on what one would do to come up with a power plant? The owner thought maybe a box could be built in the engine hold on which to mount an outboard. He also mentioned the possibility of installing an off-the-hull exterior outboard engine mount. I don’t like the idea since it seems awkward and would make a mess of the lines. Also any sense of what a reasonable price to pay for this boat would be (with no engine, trim in mediocre shape, sails and rigging in good shape, new self furling jib)? Any additional comments you have on this would be appreciated. Paul L.  

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COMMENTS

  1. Owners Associations

    Sabre Yachts Owners Associations. CBSA- Chesapeake Bay Sabre Association. Sabre boat owners with boats in the Chesapeake Bay. Sabre & Back Cove Owners Group (Facebook) An online group for all Sabre and Back Cove motoryacht owners. Sabre Sailboats Group (Facebook)

  2. Sabre Sailboats

    This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.

  3. A group of owners of Sabre sailboats. This group comprise of former members of the Yahoo Group-SabreSailboat and new members of Groups.io-SabreSailboat. This forum is for discussions of ownership, maintenance and improvements of Sabre sailboats. This discussion will also include the operation, the performance and the upkeep of Sabre Sailboats. Also please consider joining the FACEBOOK Group ...

  4. Sabre Sailboats

    About this group. This group is for the purpose of the discussion of Sabre Sailboats. This discussion will also include the operation, the performance and the upkeep of Sabre Sailboats. Also please consider joining the Groups.io site, SabreSailboat. This site has 16 years of helpful information concerning your Sabre Sailboat.

  5. By Jerry Brecher · 10/13/23. Sabre Rendezvous at the US Sailboat Show - THIS EVENING. Hi All, The first day at the Annapolis Boat Show was beautiful. Just a reminder, we are gathering this evening at O'Brien's Oyster House and Pub. 113 Main Street, Annapolis Come join us anytime from 5.

  6. How are Sabres higher quality?

    Yes a boat in good repair and outfitted for such a cruise, the Sabre could be termed a strong boat for "Light Offshore" use. One of the differences among boats i.e. Westsail and Sabre the shape and design of the two boats would impact the feel of the boat "sea kindly nature" in various sea states. That would be a subjective feel.

  7. Sabre's Storied 50-year History and Unwavering Success

    The second stage in Sabre's evolution as a power boat builder occurred in 2004 with the launch of the Sabre Hard Top Express models which were offered in a range from 34 to 42 feet. "When the first Hard Top Express models debuted at the Miami boat show, a dozen owners signed up for these exciting boats," Collins explains.

  8. Caliber, Island Packet, Sabre

    Oct 10, 2006. #4. There is a difference. These are all outstanding boats. The Island Packet and the Caliber have higher D/SA ratios as they are designed primarily as more long range cruisers rather than coastal cruisers. The higher ratios make them more sea kind in heavy air and not great in light air.

  9. Sabre Owners Association

    Online discussion for Sabre sailboat owners. Source: sailboatdata.com / CC BY. Suggest Improvements 4 Sailboats Sailboat. Sabre 34. 1976 • 34 ...

  10. Sabre sailboats for sale by owner.

    Sabre preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Sabre used sailboats for sale by owner.

  11. Sabre Yachts (USA)

    The boat was a success, and over the next fifteen years, 588 Sabre 28's were built. The 28 was followed by the Sabre 34 in 1976, the Sabre 30 in 1979, the Sabre 38 in 1981 and the Sabre 32 and 36 in 1984. The Sabre 42, which later evolved into the Sabre 425, was introduced in 1986. The current sailboat range consists of three Jim Taylor/Sabre ...

  12. Sabre 28

    The Sabre 28 was the smallest boat in the line produced by Sabre Yachts of South Casco, Maine for much of the company's history. The production run of the 28 lasted 14 years, from 1972 to 1986. The Sabre 28 was the only model produced by the company until 1977, when the Sabre 34 entered production. In 1979 the gap between the Sabre 28 and the ...

  13. Sabre 36 Survey & General Info?

    1. Sabre Sabre 36 Southern Chesapeake Bay. Feb 4, 2020. #1. Hello Everyone, I am hopefully soon to be the owner of a 1985 Sabre 36 center board. My primary question is if there is anything in particular I should keep an extra sharp eye out for on the survey? Any known issues with Sabre 36s in general, the center board in particular, the earlier ...

  14. SABRE 30 OWNER'S MANUAL Pdf Download

    Download this manual. 3/21/2017. Sabre 30 Owners Manual. Dear Sabre Owner: We are pleased to enclose a copy of our new Sabre Owners Manual for your boat. We have. strived to make it the finest and most complete in the industry, and trust that you will. find it beneficial.

  15. Sabre 362

    Sabre handled the problem with the local yard and it didn't cost me a dime or five minutes of my time." One 362 owner whose profession is the installation of heating and wiring systems in boats was critical of the difficulties encountered in the installation of an engine-driven refrigeration system, forced air heating, and autopilot.

  16. Sailboat Owners Forums

    For owners of ANY sailboat. 48.4K Threads 604.7K Messages. 48.4K Threads 604.7K Messages. Canadian dilemma. 1 minute ago; Drinky Crow; ... Sabre Sailboats New. 94 Threads 452 Messages. 94 Threads 452 Messages. G. Bulkhead replacement on SABRE 28. Tuesday at 11:18 AM; G Scott; San Juan Sailboats. 34 Threads 123 Messages. 34

  17. SABRE 28-1

    Sabre Owners Association: Download Boat Record: Notes. A small number were delivered with a ketch rig. (8) Shoal draft: 3.8' Hulls < #212. ... Like the LWL, it will vary with the weights of fuel, water, stores and equipment. A boat's actual draft is usually somewhat more than the original designed or advertised draft. For boats with ...

  18. Columbia 33 Sabre

    The Sabre is really a 5.5 meter hull with a cabin on it. The 5.5 was an olympic class and limited entirely to wood hulls. These boats were state of the art at the the time and VERY expensive to build. Columbia took a gamble that the Olympics would start allowing fiberglass hulls and created the 5.5 mold. In the end the olympic commitee decided ...