And there have been suggestions that the foam of the early ‘80s was of lower quality, and specific discussions about the “red glue line” hulls and changing hull weights.
From what I've been told by reliable sources, all the 16's I've seen over the years and information from the forums;
Late 70's decks we're prone to softness. Don't know why. People complained. The '80, '81 (I bought one new), were tanks. Solid decks and over minimum weight. People complained. Weight came down in '82, '83. Solid decks. Coleman boats begin in '84 & '85 and identified by serial number, Coleman sticker on the transom and red glue in hull to deck seam. Weighed at minimum weight. Solid decks. Since then weight has fluctuated a bit, and decks are stout (depending on care or lack of).
If you leave water in the hulls all bets are off.
When looking to buy ANY Hobie 16 check the decks, if they are soft, walk away. There are a cajillion more to look at.
