Construction
The J/32 is built by TPI Composites, Inc. in Warren, Rhode Island. TPI
is America's most qualified and advanced builder in fiberglass yacht
construction. The extensive staff of craftsmen, engineers, production
specialists and quality inspectors ensure that each yacht is carefully
built and thoroughly inspected. TPI is further distinguished by the
development of the patented "SCRIMP" resin infusion molding
technique and industry leading 10 year hull warranty against blistering.
What’s Unique About SCRIMP Construction?
Tests conducted by the US Naval Surface Warfare Center
at Carderock, MD established that the properties of laminates produced
by TPI's patented SCRIMP resin-infusion process are superior to
low-energy pre-pregs used by many custom boat shops and twice the
strength of hand lay-up. In our judgment, SCRIMP construction greatly
reduces the chances of warranty claims due to laminate failures
resulting over time from pounding into waves and/or rig tension or
ballast loads.

SCRIMP Process The entire laminate is placed in the mold dry. A
high vacuum eliminates any air voids, then resin feed tubes draw in only
enough resin to "wet" the laminate. This is the TPI patented
SCRIMP resin-infusion process. As can be seen from the chart above,
SCRIMP laminate properties in terms of compression strength, flexure,
and tension are twice the strength of hand lay-up and significantly
stronger than low energy (vacuum bagged) post-cure pre-pregs. There is
no entrained air in a SCRIMP laminate. It only takes 1% void content to
reduce flexural strength by 10%! See the comparison of
composite properties of low cost fabrication methods in the chart above.
TPI Bonded Hull/Deck Joint
Extremely strong and watertight hull-to-deck joints are created by
chemically bonding the hull/deck flange overlap with 3M 5200 and Plexus
adhesive. This innovation from TPI, used on each new J/Boat since the
introduction of the J/105, yields a bond that is proven superior in
strength to a conventional bolted joint with 3M 5200, with less
opportunity for leaks, and less weight on deck. Essential hardware
elements along the deck edge are bolted through this joint and sealed
with Sikaflex bedding compound. Each flange (hull & deck) is
supported with extra glass laminates and designed to withstand high
local area stresses from stanchions, rails, & blocks.
Keel
The J/32 deep keel is 3,840 lbs, draws 5.9' feet and is manufactured to
designer specified templates and molds. An optional 4.75’ shoal keel
is available. The additional weight of the shoal keel results in similar
stability as the deep keel. Both are made of cast lead reinforced with
4% antimony with high strength stainless bolts cast into the lead. The
molded keel stub area of the J/32 hull uses multi layered fiberglass
laminates to withstand the high local loads induced by the keel. Heavy
duty fiberglass keel stringers are infused into the stub in the hull
molding process. The lead keel is seated in epoxy and thru-bolted to the
stub and then spray coated with a minimum of four coats of specially
formulated epoxy primer.
Propulsion
The J/32 is powered by the 28 horsepower Yanmar 3GMF three cylinder,
fresh-water cooled diesel engine turning a 16 inch folding Martec
two-bladed propeller. Cruising speed under power is 6.5 knots with a top
speed capability of 7.0 knots. Fuel consumption at cruising speed is
approximately .6 gallons per hour giving a cruising range of 300
nautical miles on the standard 27 gallon fuel capacity. J/32's
relatively flat wake under power shows its efficiency compared to other
cruisers this size.
Steering
The steering system is carefully designed to provide
"fingertip" control. This is achieved by utilizing an aligned
rudder bearing system and the proven Edson pedestal and quadrant. The
rudder post is constructed of high strength glass fabrics and vinylester
resin. The advantage of this rudder post over stainless or aluminum is
that the post can withstand severe shocks and still return to its normal
position; whereas metal rudder posts will remain bent.
Interior
Belowdecks, the J/32 is beautifully appointed with the owner stateroom
forward, a spacious main salon, an aft head/shower compartment and a
dedicated sail storage locker. The "L" shaped galley is
designed for maximum storage, and accessibility. Unlike other cruisers
this size, the icebox is large, easy to access and well insulated with
3-1/2" foam. The J/32 is built with a combination of off-white
bulkheads and teak trim and joinery. The owner may also select an
additional deluxe trim package of wood hull ceilings in the forward
cabin with mid-height shelves as an option. Storage and machinery spaces
have been carefully designed to accommodate the systems and stores
suitable for an ocean-going yacht of this size.
Electrical
The standard electrical system on the J/32 is designed for simplicity
and reliability. Two large deep cycle gel batteries power the house bank
and engine with a dual selector switch in the nav station. All wiring
systems conform to standards recommended by the U.S. Coast Guard,
American Boat and Yacht Council, and ABS.
Deck Hardware
The J/32 deck is designed to allow simple short-handed operation without
leaving the cockpit. The major control lines lead aft to stoppers. The
power ratio, safe working load, and breaking strength of each piece of
hardware is carefully reviewed in the design process to ensure
efficiency, durability, and light weight. Only the highest quality
hardware manufacturers are chosen for each application. The fastenings
are specified for longevity and ease of maintenance. All deck hardware
is bedded with Sikaflex bedding compound with additional laminate
reinforcements incorporated where necessary to ensure reliable
fastening. Stanchions, chainplates and other above deck stainless
fittings are custom made and specified by the TPI engineers.
Cockpit
All efforts are made to maximize the visibility of the jib from the
wheel. The mainsheet and traveler controls are within reach at the helm.
Other features include a molded recess for the engine panel, as well as
pods for instruments above the seahood and to port and starboard of the
wheel.
Storage in the cockpit area is abundant with a locker aft of the
wheel to port, twin cockpit seat lockers and a vented propane locker is
located aft of the wheel to starboard.
Spars and Rigging
J/32 spars and rigging are designed for efficiency and performance by
Hall Spars. The standard double spreader aluminum mast and boom are
painted off-white. An optional Carbon Fiber mast is available and built
with epoxy pre-preg medium modulus carbon and autoclave cured to 80 psi
at 250 degrees Fahrenheit. The Carbon Fiber mast results in a weight
savings approaching 100 pounds.
Standing rigging is 1 x 19 Stainless wire with Navtec Turnbuckles.
with a standard integral hydraulic backstay adjuster. A Harken headsail
roller furling system and Hall Quik-Vang are also featured. The running
rigging package is specified to minimize weight and maintain durability.