I Sail Away

It is TIME to have the bottom cleaned on the Ericson 29 again. In fact, the last time the bottom was cleaned was about 9 months ago. I am actually behind schedule.

The condition of the algae on the bottom actually determines the time more than anything. And, it is definitely time. As seen in the image, there is an entire bustling community of crustaceans living and working on the hull. Not exactly desirable for good hull speed.

I must call the diver to come and clean the bottom of the boat. More importantly, a haul-out and new bottom paint has to happen soon.

A while back, I found the Ericson 29 Owner’s Manual at the Ericson Owner Association. As an owner of an Ericson 29, and constantly in need of specs and other information, I have only downloaded and provide a link to the Ericson 29 Owner’s Manual.

The Ericson Owner’s Association website has a really nice collection of documentation and specification. Here’s the link:

http://www.ericsonyachts.org/

There are quite a few things to do before the Ericson will ready . . . but, that is part of the reason why I purchased the boat.  Overall, it is sturdy boat, but it is going to be my textbook for learning how to work on and repair boats.

The todo list is divided into several categories.  There are things that must be done before she can be sailed, things that are routine maintenance, and things that are upgrades.  Here is the first draft:

Before Sailed Items:

• bottom wet-sanded and new bottom paint applied
• prop replaced (it was partly eroded due to worn zincs)
• motor tune-up and any repair completed
• anchors inspected, and rode replaced
• chain plates replaced
• standing rigging replaced
• running rigging replaced
• electrical system inspected, tested, and any repairs completed
• life-lines replaced

Should be completed:

• portholes and deck hardware rebedded
• cabin-top replaced
• hand-rail replaced
• winches disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled
• running rigging replaced
• docking lines and fenders replaced

Upgrades:

• replace seat cushions
• purchase additional life vests for guests
• repair/replace canvas covers
• add canvas dodger
• paint top-sides
• install mast ring at the base of the mast
• lead all lines aft
• upgrade main winches and move existing winches to the cabin-top

This is not exactly a short list, but it is worthwhile.  This is a pretty extensive textbook . . . .