Chasing leaks

I tore the headliner out of the front berth over the weekend. I traced the leak back to the (for want of the correct term) main Bullard post. The teak decking that buts up against it has deteriorated and the caulk needed some work. I dug out the bad wood and saturated the area with Mr Smith's penetrating epoxy. I used my Fein multi tool with a rasp to cut out the grooves and replaced the caulk in the grooves. It rained over night and appeared to stay dry. Will give the repair a little longer before I put the headliner back in.

I also mounted the stainless steel strip to the back of the boat. To protect the paint from the dinghy. Will post a pic next trip. The real challenge for the day was fishing the dinghy into place to be lifted onto the davits by myself. It involved the pulley system for the lift, a boat hook and extra rope to maneuver the dingy around the docking posts.
Capt. Mike

Paying for Zoe

We are back in Ohio after a nice weekend working and relaxing in Annapolis. Two of the batteries in the starting bank had burst leaving the battery bin with acid in the bottom. We neutralized it with baking soda and rigged a block and harness to lift the batteries from under the quarter berth. The batteries were extracted and placed in heavy plastic bags to protect the boat from the acid. I came back to find Kat stripped down and cleaning the mess out of the battery bin. I asked why the lack of clothes and was informed that acid would ruin her pants. I guess it's ok to get acid burns on your skin if you can save a pair of jeans.

We, also, finished rigging the sails so Zoe is ready to head for the bay. Unfortunately our season is cranking up so fun will have to wait for awhile. Gotta make money to pay Zoe's bills. Next up, Engine service and track down a new leak in the front cabin.

I pick up my new ride tomorrow.
Capt. Mike

Busy April

I am setting here with my best girl in my wonderful enclosed cockpit. It is the first weekend in May and we have the portable heater running to keep things toasty. Getting Zoe ready for the season has been a battle. The weather has not cooperated. I ran over for a Monday drop and managed to get from the marina to the dock without tearing anything up in a pretty stout wind. I had to plug the boat in to get the engine to roll over. Upon further investigation, I found a destroyed battery in the starter group. I suspect it froze and broke open over the winter. It is 11years old so I guess I won't complain. I brought 3 AGM batteries to replace the bank and will attempt to wrestle the old ones out tomorrow. For now I am going to enjoy my evening. Unfortunately, this spring hasn't given us much time to enjoy the boat and our busy season starts in earnest next week. Could be worse. I could be in Ohio working and not own a boat.
Capt. Mike