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Known Issues & Common Problems

Tanzer 22 Known Issues

Common problems, survey red flags, and what to inspect before buying a Tanzer 22.

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These are the most commonly reported problems on the Tanzer 22, compiled from surveys, owner reports, and marine forums. Use this list as a pre-purchase inspection checklist — especially the high-severity items.

9
Known Issues
3 High 5 Medium 1 Low
Accommodations
Low
The fresh water tank is a flexible bladder or small built-in unit that ages poorly and is difficult to replace given the limited access under the V-berth. Many boats this age have non-functional or removed water systems.
Hull/Deck
Medium
The deck-to-hull joint on early Tanzer 22s was secured with a through-bolted external aluminum toe rail acting as the primary fastener. Corrosion of the aluminum extrusion and backing hardware causes the joint to weep, allowing water intrusion into the hull-deck interface and potential delamination of the inner flange.
1970–1978 models
Medium
The centerline cockpit floor and the area beneath the cockpit sole are prone to stress cracking and delamination due to the relatively thin layup Tanzer used in this region. Check carefully for soft spots underfoot and cracks radiating from cockpit drain fittings.
High
The tabbing that bonds the interior liner and bulkheads to the hull was applied lightly at the factory. Bulkhead tabbing, particularly at the main bulkhead, commonly separates over time, producing creaking under sail load and allowing movement that can stress the hull.
Medium
The mast partner area on the cabin top was lightly reinforced at the factory. Boats that have been raced hard or rigged with high-tension rigs show compression cracking and sometimes delamination around the mast collar. Inspect for star cracking and soft laminate in this zone.
High
Chainplate backing plates were undersized on many hulls and are prone to pulling or cracking the deck laminate under repeated load. Inspect the interior headliner and deck surface around shroud chainplates for lifted or cracked gelcoat and any signs of movement.
Keel
High
The cast iron fin keel is attached with a small number of keel bolts that are known to corrode, especially where they pass through the shallow sump area. Surface rust staining in the bilge near bolt heads is common and warrants probing to assess remaining bolt diameter before purchase.
Medium
The keel-to-hull joint relies on a relatively narrow mating surface and bedding compound that deteriorates, allowing water to wick up around the bolts and accelerate internal rust. Re-bedding the keel is a recurring maintenance item on this model.
Rigging
Medium
The transom-hung rudder uses a pintle-and-gudgeon arrangement on the transom that suffers from elongated holes over years of use, producing slop in the steering. Inspect gudgeons for wallowed-out fastener holes and cracks in the fiberglass transom around the fittings.
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