Hi guys, I am about to buy a 470 from 2008 and wanted to check the steel frame on the bottom. There is no way to see the main beam under the mast. I can just see the nuts , a large one and 2 smaller ones supporting the keel. From the salon the view is nearly closed by fiberglass work and from the front cabin, there is a fiberglass layer just under the wooden floor and supporting it that makes it impossible to see the frame under it. It this the original built or has it been modified for some reason?

Thank you for your experience.

Yoshi

I have cut a hole about 150mm in dia close to the front of the mast in the fibreglasss composite floor. this enable me to reach in to two 'compartments' either side of the mast 'foot' where I get water pooling as it occasionally runs down the mast.

These compartments are formed by the castellated beams running from side to side (beams with holes cut out to save weight but in places that are not detrimental to their strength).

I suggest that you visit your local hardware store (or internet if you must), and pick up an endoscope that way you can view most of the underfloor.

Alternatively rely on the report a surveyor produces and specifically mention you are aware of the frame that forms the main structure of the boat and want to make sure that it is in good condition.

Hi Jon, " it sounds as though that is as built" Thank you for this reply. Actually I had doubts because the fiberglass floor is a little bit uneven and the wooden floor doesn't rest well on that fiberglass.

Good idea to cut an opening to check the frame.  A surveyor will just need to do the same to check the beam. Thanks again

I've found a few large self tapping screws behind the sofa where it has been attached with the sharp points aiming towards large cables!