Bill Shaw produced 4 different hull designs for Pearson. The 422 was the last in the series which included the 390, 419, 424 and the 422. The 422 is best known for its center cockpit design and centerline queen aft. 39 hulls were produced by Pearson between 1981 to 1987.
Pearson History: Back in 1959, the Triton 28 was a major hit as the first mass produced fiberglass sailboat. Everett and Clinton, the Pearson cousins, were responsible for its production. Following its success, Pearson Yachts rapidly expanded. Two years later, the company was purchased by Grumman who put a lot of money into revving up production. Many new classic designs were produced, such as the 35 Alberg and 44 Countess. In 1966, the cousins were replaced by Bill Shaw. Shaw introduced his own designs to the company, altering Pearsonfs company mission. By 1972, he introduced the 390, an aft cockpit design for the charter industry and the first in a series that was followed by the 419, the 424 and the 422. After building 30 hulls, production ceased in 1974 and the hull design was altered because this model only offered a single v-berth stateroom forward. The 419 was a popular center cockpit design. Demand changed by 1977, thus more aft cockpits were produced. The 424 was the most successful in the series, offering a completely redesigned deck mold. Pearson ultimately decided to offer both the aft and center cockpit versions, so they introduced the 422 in 1983.
422fs Design: The 422 differs from the 424 in that it has a center cockpit deck mold. The 422 features a fin keel with a skeg hung rudder, flat transom, subtle sheerline, and raked bow. The unique center cockpit deck layout opens to the aft stateroom with private head. Without a doubt, the most notable feature of the 422 is its exquisite centerline queen aft. The walk through running portside boasts a work table and navigation station at the end. Amidships, the galley is starboard and saloon forward. All the way forward, she has a guest head and a V-berth. Headroom is 6 foot 4 inches in the center tapering to 6 feet at the sides.
Build – Pearson was the original maker of fiberglass. While the designer changed, Pearson was always first class in build quality and manufacturing techniques. The 422 hull is thick and sound with a solid hull to deck joint, keel stepped mast. The original engine was a Westerbeke with a Walter V-drive. Pearson commissioned her with Lewmar winches. One known issue on the 422 is the aluminum fuel tanks one on each side. They have a .090 thickness which has been found to be thin. Recommended thickness is .125. A distinctive feature of the 422 is her cockpit. She has unique cockpit steps, one on each side, which hing up to completely enclose the cockpit. Otherwise they lock down providing an easy step.
Later: When Pearson was purchased by a private company, they stopped production of the 422. By 1991, Pearson went out of business. But Pearson still lives on. The brand name is currently owned by Everett, one of the Pearson cousins. He also runs TPI who produce J boats. Notable problems with Pearson 422s after 20 years are regular old age issues. Check for leaky portholes. They should have repowered Engines and new rigging. The 422fs are great for Caribbean cruisers with their 5-1/2 foot draft, have gorgeous centerline queen berths aft, and attractive classic lines. Typically, prices run between $60K-$100K.
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