We are still at it!

Yes, we are still working... this winter in Portland has been a stormy one. Several major wind storms that either damaged the structure holding up the tarp or completely tore off the tarp. A couple trips back up to the boat yard to make repairs... we completely rebuilt the PVC structure, replacing it with 2x2 frames. That plus 4 snow storms in Dallas; one in particular dropped 8 inches on our hilltop. I know, that's not much compared to other parts of the USA, but here in Dallas, Oregon it's memorable.

Because of the stormy weather we manage just a few days working on the boat installing what we have fabricated at home. Walt has built several wiring panels to match the commercial ones. The set shown is for bilge pump and fuel tank selection for the diesel. The head configuration is totally from the hull up and different from most Ericson MkII's. By switching the position of the cabinet and sink, we gained 3 cubic feet of storage! This whole change was brought about because of the rotten bulkheads that held the side chainplates. Walt repaired the chainplates by fabricating solid fiberglass inserts and tabbing them to the hull. Now, nothing to rot!

Also in process is the installation of the new 316L stainless tanks (28 gal water and 28 gal holding) fabricated by Leonard French Welding. Leonard did a great job on the tanks and we can recommend his work! The whole story of this refit fits into this scenario: "While we are.... we might as well ....". So while we are waiting for warmer weather to re-fiberglass the hull, we might as well install our new hatches; remove and rebuild the steering system; remove and replace the propeller shaft, mechanical seal, and propeller, plus, plus, plus.

Funny story about the propeller and shaft. We took the shaft into Sheffield Marine for advice on the shaft, and after looking at the whole system, they said that the existing prop was for a high speed highly cavitating prop for a speed boat. No wonder it did not work well! Another recommendation for a marine service.


So, yes, we are still working. But major things are being completed. Besides, all boating is fun...right? Even on the hard!