Thursday, November 29, 2007

Past meetings - November 29, 2007

Just heard back from Lin and Larry Pardey. Had not seen them since 1998 at Fishing Bay. Though we did not talk much, I enjoyed the brief encounter. I would highly recommend all sailors to vist their site.
http://www.landlpardey.com/

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving

Turkey Day - Chris, Heather and Cameron came over for as usual a great meal by Pat. Chris moved some heavy items for me that I had left until he had a chance to help.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Bulkhead Aft - November 19,2007

I cut out a pattern from blue foam board, 1/4 ", and after much correcting and adding pieces by masking tape, I am ready to cut out of the marine plywood. I will need to make this a two piece installation, not because of fitting, but the width of the area. I want the have the strength by having grain run vertical, but the the area to cover is five feet. Prior to installing will seal wood with expoxy west system. Most likely use the old from six years ago. Though is no longer clear, really does not matter since will not be seen.

There are folks alot worst off than I am and still kicking. Anyway, I have to get this boat done.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Tack up wind

I found this in my wandering and appreciate the author, that is unknown at this time

Quote "A basic sloop rig with two six-ft cockpit seats and two good sized berths in the main cabin. The V-berth is only large enough for children. ( We use it for storage.) A delightful boat for "gunkholing" here in the Florida Keys. Run aground? With a 23 in. draft, just get out and push it off! The outboard's prop never gets near bottom. Sails nicely with just 140 genoa. Comfortable for two persons for overnite or several days. Limitations are ice and water. Added life lines, stern rail (used), roller furling, all new navigation lights, Origo single-burner alcohol stove, stern-mounted charcoal barbecue, compass, vhf, 10 gal. water tank, 12 gal. gas tank on aft deck of cockpit, awning, electric bilge pump, cassette stereo, used loran and used autopilot. Converted mast to internal halyards and lead them back to cockpit. Upgraded primary winches (with used ones) and put original primary winch on cabin top for halyards. Makes a nice comfortsble compact cruiser. WEAKNESSES: (1.) Both original u-bolt-style "chainplates" failed from cracks while under sail. Had to get new ones hand made for $85. (2.) Carry a spare tiller. I slipped and fell against mine, and it split right at the rudder. It's a weak design, and you can't get home without one. Overall, my wife and I love the boat. " Unquote

Monday, November 12, 2007

Difficult Time, Nay Just life - November 12, 2007

So, back to the boat. Wasn't that a transition....

I have got both bulkheads done. I have glassed the overhead and had the plates made to back the hinge for mast on deck. Removed all the foam beneath the cockpit and cleaned. Now is the time to decide whether to cut out the flooring. It seems sturdy, perhaps well enough alone. It depends on the bilge area. If that can be addressed without removing the floor. Perhaps if I make entrances in section along the bilge. We will have to see.

I have had a good life and should not complain. But, I need to get back in the bay.

By the way, go back to 8/11/07. Quote" I don't plan to spend too much." Dare I say more. This is just another hole in the water (driveway) to pour money into. At this point we are at $1500 for all costs including boat itself.