Search found 421 matches

by atomvoyager
Mon Oct 12, 2020 8:32 am
Forum: Classic Sailboats
Topic: Shannon 28
Replies: 1
Views: 997

Re: Shannon 28

The Shannon 28 is a very salty looking boat. There's one next to my boat in the marina and the owner reports it lives up to its reputation as a fine sailing boat of good quality design and construction. If I wanted a boat with an inboard engine it would be near the top of my list.
by atomvoyager
Sun Oct 11, 2020 11:28 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Integral water tank build
Replies: 12
Views: 2423

Re: Integral water tank build

I'd wash out the bilge with detergent and water and rinse. Then once dry scrub it good with acetone on an old towel. Then add a single layer of fiberglass cloth and plenty of resin and there is no chance of old oil contaminating the tank. Using 3/8 ply underneath to close the old icebox top could wo...
by atomvoyager
Sun Oct 11, 2020 11:08 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Teak caprails on Alberg30
Replies: 14
Views: 2357

Re: Teak caprails on Alberg30

When I replaced the teak cap rails on a 1972 A30 I figured I had three choices - steam bend planks to shape, force them into place with clamps, or cut the curve out of wider planks. Steam bending didn't seem practical. I didn't want to spend the money and time to cut them out of wide planks. Since I...
by atomvoyager
Fri Oct 09, 2020 9:40 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Integral water tank build
Replies: 12
Views: 2423

Re: Integral water tank build

A bilge tank of 72" length would give you about 35-38 gals. I would not bother with smaller than 66". The aft tank would be welcome for sure and as I said it is the only location that does not reduce storage. Replacing it with a buoyancy chamber seems tragic, but doable if you had a good r...
by atomvoyager
Wed Oct 07, 2020 9:03 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Integral water tank build
Replies: 12
Views: 2423

Re: Integral water tank build

The aft keel tank as on Osprey and Atom is the only ideal place that keeps weight low and on centerline and does not reduce storage options for other items. But it's only around 20 gal so you need a second tank. I was not considering a bilge thank that goes into the forward cabin. Might be doable bu...
by atomvoyager
Wed Oct 07, 2020 8:22 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: GFO Packing
Replies: 1
Views: 1648

Re: GFO Packing

Thanks for posting that. I didn't know about that packing and will try it next time.
by atomvoyager
Tue Oct 06, 2020 9:10 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Integral water tank build
Replies: 12
Views: 2423

Re: Integral water tank build

I'm guessing you want to put the tanks there to avoid weight in the ends of the boat. If that's true, you might be introducing more problems doing that than you're solving. Even though you could keep monitoring and switching valves to draw them both down more or less equally, it's best to have them ...
by atomvoyager
Tue Sep 29, 2020 9:06 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Keel Crack
Replies: 2
Views: 944

Re: Keel Crack

If the previous owner repaired the crack he might know whether it was caused by a collision or some other issue and that would be good to know. Not having a photo or in person inspection it's not possible to say for sure but I'd expect it is repairable without too much time and money provided the bo...
by atomvoyager
Sat Sep 19, 2020 9:01 am
Forum: Pearson Triton Specifics
Topic: Stern Tube
Replies: 4
Views: 1404

Re: Stern Tube

I'm not an engine guy but if the tube is not falling apart or leaking into the bilge you should be able to add some fiberglass around the outside of the tube and around the hull to strengthen it. Then check the shaft alignment is not causing vibration. Maybe someone else with more engine experience ...
by atomvoyager
Wed Sep 16, 2020 11:01 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Epoxy questions
Replies: 5
Views: 1502

Re: Epoxy questions

It gets complicated and expensive to use two resins so I'd only buy the standard thinner resin since you can thicken it as well. How much you need depends on your job list. I normally use 9oz cloth on upper bulkheads but you might try mat there and see what you prefer. On the Triton there is a glass...
by atomvoyager
Sun Sep 13, 2020 9:07 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Epoxy questions
Replies: 5
Views: 1502

Re: Epoxy questions

Those are good resources. I also use West System epoxy and fillers but I've also used cheaper MAS epoxy or those from US Composites in the past with with no issues. With West I use the slow hardener in 75-80 degree temps and extra slow above 80 or when using thicker amounts because it generates heat...
by atomvoyager
Mon Sep 07, 2020 9:57 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: how much time on weeping seacock
Replies: 4
Views: 1121

Re: how much time on weeping seacock

In mt experience 99% of slow drips like you describe are not a problem and don't quickly get worse. But in that rare case a seacock that does not have a thru-bolted flange may have corroded threads on the flush or mushroom head and that is the only thing along with the sealant holding it from fallin...
by atomvoyager
Sat Sep 05, 2020 8:38 am
Forum: Pearson Triton Specifics
Topic: Rudder
Replies: 10
Views: 2289

Re: Rudder

I didn't order any parts yet, just thinking ahead to doing that job one day. I didn't realize that MCMasters had so many stainless shafts and keyway options. You need to match the keyway size (1/4"?) and location fore or aft to the rudderhead/tiller strap combo you will use whether it's origina...
by atomvoyager
Thu Sep 03, 2020 8:43 am
Forum: Pearson Triton Specifics
Topic: Rudder
Replies: 10
Views: 2289

Re: Rudder

Straps that bend around the rudder seem like they'd be strongest, followed by straps welded outside in pairs. The weakest is a single strap welded on the inside centerline. Outside straps mean the rudder is more easily installed and replaced later. It would help with drags turbulence and ease of cle...
by atomvoyager
Sat Aug 29, 2020 9:20 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: why not Dolfinite
Replies: 2
Views: 1509

Re: why not Dolfinite

Thanks for reminding me of Dolfinite. What I like about Bed-it butyl is it's extreme stickiness compared to most other butyls which is why it works so well. It's all about formulation - some work better than others. What I don't like about it is the high cost and it's only available in extremely thi...
by atomvoyager
Thu Aug 27, 2020 9:12 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Barrier coat question.
Replies: 2
Views: 987

Re: Barrier coat question.

I don't use barrier coats such as Interprotect 2000e on deck unless I have a special issue like gelcoat crazing I want to seal with a hard coating. Sometimes I use to to seal a single component paint before applying the epoxy primers and two part paints in the hope it won't lift the original finish....
by atomvoyager
Tue Aug 25, 2020 10:06 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Pearson Wanderer and Coaster
Replies: 7
Views: 1552

Re: Pearson Wanderer and Coaster

I don't have experience with the wanderer so Marvin is better equipped to give particular advice. But from what I've read the Wanderer is capable for offshore. My only general concern on centerboards is that if knocked down in large waves I would expect an extended centerboard to slam up with potent...
by atomvoyager
Thu Aug 20, 2020 6:11 pm
Forum: Projects
Topic: Alberg 30 cabin floorboards
Replies: 3
Views: 1318

Re: Alberg 30 cabin floorboards

I used a router then a chisel to square up the corners. An oscillating cutting tools can work instead of the chisel but I find it hard to control accurately in corners.
by atomvoyager
Thu Aug 20, 2020 8:44 am
Forum: Sails, Rigging, and Systems
Topic: Maintenance on New Stalock turnbuckles and fittings
Replies: 2
Views: 921

Re: Maintenance on New Stalock turnbuckles and fittings

The only maintenance I do on the rigging is to rinse off the lower part of the wires, sta-loks, and turnbuckles with fresh water when it's available after a hard wet sail. Otherwise, the rain will do the job. I'm assuming you have 316 wire and not the more corrosion prone 304. One reason chromed bro...
by atomvoyager
Thu Aug 20, 2020 8:32 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: removed all gelcoat above waterline or mostly
Replies: 1
Views: 893

Re: removed all gelcoat above waterline or mostly

I've repainted boats with gelcoat crazing and have never attempted to sand them all out. There are people that do so I suppose that's where you got the idea. Yes, impact and stress cracks should be sanded out and patched similar to how you described but the crazing from weathering, shrinkage, or poo...
by atomvoyager
Sun Aug 16, 2020 7:29 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Alberg 30 cabin floorboards
Replies: 3
Views: 1318

Re: Alberg 30 cabin floorboards

You can see how I've done it near the end of the following video using a metal plate at one end and a latch at the other. With your liner you may have to modify the wood and fiberglass to accept the latch. Another simple and cheap method instead of the latch if you find that doesn't work in your sit...
by atomvoyager
Tue Aug 11, 2020 9:39 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Alexseal paint colors.
Replies: 1
Views: 913

Re: Alexseal paint colors.

I haven't used the off-whites other than the Matterhorn white with some grey in it and Oyster White. I have a paper color chart in hand and comparing it to the online chart it's not a perfect match. The Oyster looks like a very light cream. Cloud White and Snow White are the closest colors to a shee...
by atomvoyager
Mon Aug 10, 2020 9:08 am
Forum: Sails, Rigging, and Systems
Topic: Seperate Engine and House battery systems
Replies: 2
Views: 974

Re: Seperate Engine and House battery systems

A 200 to 250AH house bank may be on the small side for live-aboard use even with 200 watts of solar since you're in the rainy PNW, It may be fine if your electrical use is small enough. As a backup you will probably want the ability for the engine to charge the house bank occasionally, even if you h...
by atomvoyager
Sat Aug 08, 2020 9:33 am
Forum: Sails, Rigging, and Systems
Topic: chain size on CD28?
Replies: 3
Views: 1013

Re: chain size on CD28?

I've had chain last about five years of active cruising before much rust appeared. In recent years it seems most suppliers go cheap on the galvanizing and you may only get half that time. You can keep using it for awhile until it begins flaking. If I plan to moor in one spot for several months I try...
by atomvoyager
Mon Jul 27, 2020 7:48 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Bristol 27
Replies: 111
Views: 96998

Re: Bristol 27

Thanks for the update. It's been a big project. What model is the engine?
by atomvoyager
Sun Jul 19, 2020 9:05 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: Pressure treated plywood?
Replies: 2
Views: 1759

Re: Pressure treated plywood?

Many people use PT wood on boats. The main issue is that unless it has dried for a long time the chemicals near the surface repel paint and epoxy. Cheaper rot-prone woods are used for PT and while the treatment prevents rot, the treatment only goes so deep and where you cut it may not be protected. ...
by atomvoyager
Sat Jul 18, 2020 8:01 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Nordica 20'
Replies: 32
Views: 7003

Re: Nordica 20'

That's a big subject to cover here but I can comment on a few points. I don't know what a 500 AH Tesla battery is or why it's needed on a 20' boat unless you are trying to cook all the time without shore power using a microwave oven or run a small heater or other high loads. But even then you won't ...
by atomvoyager
Thu Jul 16, 2020 8:47 am
Forum: Sails, Rigging, and Systems
Topic: Washed my Sails
Replies: 5
Views: 2697

Re: Washed my Sails

It's an 8 year old thread so they may be gone. If you google Sodium Silicate Detergent you'll find several common brands available. I haven't used them and don't know what is best but give it a try.
by atomvoyager
Sat Jul 11, 2020 9:17 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Rudder Repair Pearson Triton 'Blue Aura'
Replies: 1
Views: 899

Re: Rudder Repair Pearson Triton 'Blue Aura'

Jim, welcome to the group. While I can't say for sure that you don't need a new rudder without a thorough inspection, from the photo and your description I don't see any reason why you can't patch it up. If you have dry weather and the wood is dry then I'd just add more glass and overlap the repair ...
by atomvoyager
Mon Jul 06, 2020 8:40 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Boat is pulling to starboard, especially under power
Replies: 1
Views: 1001

Re: Boat is pulling to starboard, especially under power

Some prop walk is normal on many boats but if excessive it could be due to prop size, engine alignment, factory off-centerline shaft installation, etc. I'm not a motor guy but there is a good discussion on the issue at the link below: https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f114/new-boat-pulls-to-starb...
by atomvoyager
Mon Jul 06, 2020 8:29 am
Forum: Sails, Rigging, and Systems
Topic: Looking for mast toggle replacements
Replies: 4
Views: 1617

Re: Looking for mast toggle replacements

The CAD drawing should work. Or you could remove it and drop it off for them to copy. But looking at the photo it seems the slots are longer than needed. A standard slotted double jaw toggle could work. You could order one from Rigging Only to try it or get exact measurements of how long the slot ac...
by atomvoyager
Fri Jul 03, 2020 6:40 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Resealing the ballast pig - A30
Replies: 3
Views: 1029

Re: Resealing the ballast pig - A30

1708 is good for this job. Sometimes you might want lighter stuff that goes around corners easier so you can also get some 4 and 6" tape rolls of something like 9 oz and maybe some 6 oz. Since it's a tank, yes you might as well run the glass up to the thank top. I'd probably use a polyester aut...
by atomvoyager
Fri Jul 03, 2020 8:18 am
Forum: Sails, Rigging, and Systems
Topic: chain size on CD28?
Replies: 3
Views: 1013

Re: chain size on CD28?

1/4 HT has a SWL of 2,600 lbs and 5/16 is 3,900. There are boats your size cruising with 1/4. In almost all anchoring situations the 1/4 is adequate. Aside from the less weight for helpful catenary effect I think the only time you are likely to have a problem is if the chain gets wrapped around a co...
by atomvoyager
Wed Jul 01, 2020 8:31 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Termites...
Replies: 1
Views: 969

Re: Termites...

Maybe someone with more knowledge can reply. Meanwhile, if the new wood is epoxy sealed I don't see them getting into it through screw holes filled with screws. There may be some older wood they are living in or there just on the hunt for a home at this point. You might be able to kill them with som...
by atomvoyager
Wed Jul 01, 2020 8:25 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Rudder Head Assembly Pearson Ariel
Replies: 1
Views: 797

Re: Rudder Head Assembly Pearson Ariel

The most common problem with them is the holes between tiller strap and rudder head have worn and elongated and they don't have enough shoulder to drill and add a larger bolt. I would take the old rudder head off and inspect where the looseness is in that. I assume you've tried tightening the bolts ...
by atomvoyager
Sun Jun 28, 2020 8:48 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Solar tracking mount
Replies: 19
Views: 5679

Re: Solar tracking mount

I don't believe there is any "marine" standard on solar panels so it may just be marketing terminology and can mean anything. I've always bought common brands based on the size I need and cost such as Renogy 50 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline ($75) from amazon or other similar panels from sol...
by atomvoyager
Sat Jun 27, 2020 6:41 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Thoughts on ocean crossing in an old boat
Replies: 6
Views: 1518

Re: Thoughts on ocean crossing in an old boat

Charlie, good to hear that you and Tehani are still around. I think it was about ten years ago when we saw you here in Brunswick on your way to cruise the Chesapeake Bay, We're still here fitting out boats and doing mostly local sailing in recent years. Hope to see you if you pass this way again som...
by atomvoyager
Thu Jun 25, 2020 8:18 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Resealing the ballast pig - A30
Replies: 3
Views: 1029

Re: Resealing the ballast pig - A30

You could drill a few 1/4" holes in the lower ballast area outside to see if any water is still inside and let it drain out. If you have humid conditions then you can dry the inside top of the ballast with heat or dehumidifier and then glass it closed. If there is any sign of a crack at the ext...
by atomvoyager
Wed Jun 24, 2020 7:49 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Thoughts on ocean crossing in an old boat
Replies: 6
Views: 1518

Re: Thoughts on ocean crossing in an old boat

I know some people talk about avoiding "hard spots" when glassing in bulkheads but I've found that is not a concern in most situations. It's not an issue at all on glassed in stringers and stiffeners. It shouldn't matter how long or where they are.
by atomvoyager
Tue Jun 23, 2020 7:49 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Thoughts on ocean crossing in an old boat
Replies: 6
Views: 1518

Re: Thoughts on ocean crossing in an old boat

I don't see any sign that the fiberglass is losing its strength on old boats unless it is in some areas affected by severe osmosis or lightly built layups that had been flexing too much even when newer. But even those faults are fixable, either by osmosis repair below the waterline with added glass ...
by atomvoyager
Fri Jun 19, 2020 8:42 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Undersink water filter
Replies: 1
Views: 870

Re: Undersink water filter

I haven't tried the paper filters that come with the filter holder so not sure how they work with the foot pump. I always toss them out and used the charcoal filters as described around the 9:00 mark in the following video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qq6mk2LjOzY They work fine but the threads o...
by atomvoyager
Mon Jun 08, 2020 6:15 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: How do you fuel your boat?
Replies: 4
Views: 1289

Re: How do you fuel your boat?

I'd want a fuel gauge of some type. Maybe you could add a site tube. If installing fittings into the tank isn't practical could you add a T fitting to the tank outlet and run a clear tube up from there and tie it into the vent? Relocating the filler above the cockpit floor might help too.
by atomvoyager
Fri Jun 05, 2020 8:43 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Nordica 20'
Replies: 32
Views: 7003

Re: Nordica 20'

You might be able to bend it back but I don't know if you can trust it not to break later at the bend. You could try to replace just the lower tube if one is available and it's not corroded in place. I don't recall if you said how much sailing experience you have but if not much you may want to keep...
by atomvoyager
Wed Jun 03, 2020 8:39 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: Denatured Alcohol
Replies: 2
Views: 1742

Re: Denatured Alcohol

Another ridiculous law to no useful purpose. Here's a thread to some alternatives such as "stove fuel" that should be available in CA:

https://sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php ... ubstitutes
by atomvoyager
Wed Jun 03, 2020 8:27 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Attaching teak handrail to cabin ceiling with liner
Replies: 4
Views: 1334

Re: Attaching teak handrail to cabin ceiling with liner

You asked about tapping epoxy. Although it might work somewhat for fiberglass I don't think it works well to tap thickened epoxy because it is too brittle. Maybe there is a way to grease the bolt and inject liquid epoxy around the threads so that it can be removed. I don't see that working for your ...
by atomvoyager
Wed Jun 03, 2020 8:20 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Attaching teak handrail to cabin ceiling with liner
Replies: 4
Views: 1334

Re: Attaching teak handrail to cabin ceiling with liner

Congratulations on the new boat. I would re-purpose the outside handrails and install matching ones thru-bolted or with the lower ones screwed into the uppers. You might use the old ones on the forward coachroof or cut them down to put on either side inside the companionway. The liner is quite thin ...
by atomvoyager
Sun May 24, 2020 9:30 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Reconstucting the Chainplate Knee and shelf from the dinette area on our Bristol 26
Replies: 5
Views: 1616

Re: Reconstucting the Chainplate Knee and shelf from the dinette area on our Bristol 26

Thanks for sharing that. I'm sure it will be helpful for others tackling a similar job. I'm dealing with the same issues now on a Cheoy Lee Clipper 33. Looks like the job went well so not much I can add on doing it differently. Interesting that you cut the stainless with a sawzall instead of chop sa...
by atomvoyager
Fri May 22, 2020 9:31 am
Forum: Tools and Techniques
Topic: Installing interior trim
Replies: 1
Views: 1199

Re: Installing interior trim

Sometimes on varnished wood trim that I might want to remove later I attach it with #6 or 8 brass screws flush into countersunk holes. Once it's varnished it doesn't look that bad. If the trim is small I might use small brass finishing nails after predilling with a tiny drill to ensure I don't split...
by atomvoyager
Fri May 22, 2020 9:18 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Cleaning rust off of Stainless Steel
Replies: 1
Views: 1055

Re: Cleaning rust off of Stainless Steel

If the new anchor roller had surface rust before you used the wire wheel than it may be that it was not the best grade of stainless or not mechanically polished enough. I'm not sure what the wire wheel was meant to accomplish on stainless or what grade of steel it was. If you could take the hardware...
by atomvoyager
Sun May 03, 2020 8:33 am
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Hanging knees
Replies: 3
Views: 1694

Re: Hanging knees

After looking at the video linked below I recall using 1" to 1.25" plywood plus fiberglass in most cases. If I was using 3/4 ply I would add twice as much glass rather than the two layers of medium weight I normally use.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnAsYbcRJds