“Plan everything. If you plan everything out, when it all goes to hell, it will be because you planned it that way”

I’m finally home from work and I’m ready to start working on the boat but alas, the weather just isn’t cooperating. It was 70° and sunny this past weekend and don’t you know, the day I get off its raining almost freezing! Blast!

One good thing about being at work is the time I get to research and learn, whether it’s books, forums, or online articles. Before I left for work I was able to remove the old Volkswagen Pathfinder 72hp diesel engine from the boat. It wasn’t running when I bought it, but I got it to turn over before removal. I have been on the hunt for a 80hp Perkins, but have yet to find one. I have time though, I plan to clean up the engine compartment thoroughly. Cleaning up wires, replacing insulation, cleaning bilges, mounting new battery maintenance equipment, etc. Also, I will be taking out the 110V reefer compressor for a new 12V one from Cool Blue Marine. The condenser/coldplate will get shipped to CoolBlue for inspection and cleaning as well. While on the boat I ordered a SmartPlug receptacle and plug to replace my existing 50A “Twist Lock”, these are much safer and marine grade than the old twistlock systems.

The bottom has been sanded down to the gelcoat while I was away, this allows me to start fresh with new bottom coatings. I will let the hull dry out for a while to let the small gelcoat blisters drain out. The hull has already started to get sanded as well so I can spray some AwlGrip primer and paint when the temps heat up some. Can’t wait to see what she looks like with some new paint! Also, a new name.. (still up in the air on that one, it will come to me as I work on her)

When the weather decides to clear up, I will be removing the thru-hull fittings for inspection and the seacocks for replacements. Ready to tear into the work, the sooner this is done the faster I can get her back in the water! I want to sail this summer!