Fix up an 81 H16 - how far do I go?

I just bought my first sailboat - an H16 for $900. It's a 1981, but in pretty good shape. I'm ordering some new lines, pins, battans, etc. and have to catch myself from ordering too much. The new Aussie jib system and harken 6:1 low profile block set and new rudders and new sails and .... are all tempting. I could easily put $1k - $2k in this boat, but who's going to buy a $2900 '81?

So my question is how far should I go? I'd like to get into racing, so after my first year with the old boat, I'll think about upgrading to a new H16.

As another question, how much are people paying for a new H16 with trailer? I know what they list for, but no one pays sticker price right?

Thanks,
Dan

new aussie jib system might be convenient; won't invest in new sails when you intend to buy another H16 next year. Same for Harken 6:1 set. When the actual set works cope with it. Replacing rudders to my opinion doesn't make sence neither unless they are seriously damaged. Mind: they are available in various types and quite expensive - especially when considering to chnane cat next year.
I started on a 1992 H16 and I'm still using it. Technically it's OK but not new. Most important: get the feeling for cat-sailing and have fun. You'll gain experience quite fast and when something goes wrong it's old stuff so won't that hard. By the way: The Hobie 16 is one of the strongest cats I know. Almost indestructible (unless you hit a steel vessel see other topic..) Good luck !

I just went through this decision and for me to add the comptip, epo rudders aussie system, etc it was a better deal to get a newer boat that someone already had set up. I happened on a great H16 already set up.

Note however that even with the newer (88) boat I still get my tail whipped by guys sailing much older boats! Blowing a tack will cost you more time than all the new stuff could ever add to the speed of the boat.

Definitely check into new shrouds if yours are old. Its no fun to be dismasted when a shroud gives way.

I have found a lot of used and discounted stuff online. ebay etc. Make the boat safe and structuraly sound and go out and have fun. As you gain experience and look at other people's boats you will lear what upgrades are worth it and which aren't Then you'll know what to look for in your next boat!