The new spreaders are on! Andrea Watson came out to visit from Boulder and helped us attach the new spreaders to the mast. Nadine and Andrea hung halfway up the mast and screwed the new spreaders into place. Thanks Andrea! She also helped us complete some deck work in between visits to the beach.
Last week the hull was sandblasted down to bare concrete from the waterline down. There were 6 layers of old epoxy, barrier coat, and bottom paint! The topsides, above the waterline, were sanded and ground down in damaged areas to prepare for painting. Mac and Lucy came down to help us sand and fair the hull in order to get it ready for paint.
Here is Mac applying a coat of fairing compound to the waterline area. Despite the old chipped and damaged paint, the hull is in very strong structural condition. You can hit it hard with a hammer and not even leave a mark!
We also finally fired up Twinkie our new diesel engine. He turned over and started immediately on the very first try! It was very encouraging to hear the roar of a strong diesel engine coming from below.
The electrical panel and battery are now installed and powering the bilge pump, engine, and various other electronics. Thanks to Benny Urmston, who stopped by and helped with wiring during a brief visit. We powered up the radar and were treated to a pong-like 1980's era screen with fully functioning radar.
Thanks again to Marion and Dean who have been hosting us at their house in nearby East Greenwich!
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