The introduction in the Ericson 34-2's Owner's Manual
The Ericson 34 is the product of the finest elements of Ericson Yachts. A heritage which represents the most well-founded concepts in sailboat design and engineering available. At a time when many others embrace planned obsolescence, you can take pride and confidence in your Ericson 34, for she has been designed, engineered and manufactured to virtually eliminate structural fatiguing.
Dating from 1966, Ericson Yachts has been a pioneer in construction techniques for fiberglass Yachts. Ericson's research, development and design has led to yachts of unparalleled excellence in integrity and sailing performance.
It is our intention at Ericson Yachts to help you, as an owner, derive the most pleasure based on a more detailed understanding of the functions of the features and sailing qualities of your Ericson 34. To accomplish this, we are going to familiarize you with topics which are not always covered in the scope of an "owner's manual." We will avoid, whenever possible, listing a heading and referring you to a "qualified mechanic, rigger, boatyard, etc." To be sure, there may be jobs beyond the scope of your time, tools, ambitions, or maybe even your expertise, but, you can at least understand what is required to maintain the appearance and integrity of your Ericson 34, thereby becoming your own "expert."
Heat, cold, ultraviolet, abrasion and corrosion, in addition the stresses and strains of wind and wave, create a harsh environment in which you store and operate your boat. All of these factors demand that a regular maintenance schedule be adhered to.
With the advent of fiberglass construction, yachts became regarded as "maintenance-free." Relative to their wooden forerunners, this is true. Refinishing exterior surfaces and rot prevention were ongoing projects on the wooden boats. While these maintenance procedures have been reduced to a minimum, technology and owner demands have produced a new generation of more sophisticated yachts with other, albeit less arduous, maintenance considerations.
Broader knowledge on the part of you, the owner-skipper, is essential in developing the self-confidence and self-sufficiency which will allow you the most return on your Ericson 34 investment.
Please read this manual completely and review it for help when a particular item needs attention. Use it for the maintenance guidelines suggested and pay particular attention to "cautions" and "notes" for safe operation.
Since suppliers change due to component availability etc., we will sometimes refer you to the specific product instruction manual which should be kept with this manual.
We hope that most of your questions will be answered by the contents of this manual, but should you have any further questions or comments, please contact your local Ericson Dealer or Ericson Yachts. As in any undertaking, there is more than one way to "skin a cat." We don't consider our pronouncements to be the last word but, rather, suggestions to lead you in the right direction. We will attempt to provide you with guidance throughout the owner's manual which we feel is the best available at the time of publication. Please temper this with your own experiences and use common sense in caring for your Ericson 34. We have tried to go "one step beyond" in providing you with an extensive breviary on the care and maintenance of your yacht. You have chosen one of the world's finest yuachts. We hope this manual will redouble your joys of ownership. Moreover, we would sincerely appreciate your questions, comments and suggestions.
Please write or call:
Ericson Yachts
1931 Deere Ave.
Irvine, California 92714
(714) 250-7000
