February was a busy month for 5KNOTS. Scheduling all of the new equipment installations and repairs was a challenge since we had lots to do, wanted to avoid having two projects happening on the same day and was hoping to have all of it done in two weeks. It is like trying to stuff twenty pounds of stuff into a 10 pound sack. Fortunately the weather cooperated and we had only one day of rain the entire month which made this task somewhat easier. This rain day turned out to be good for Renee and I because we were exhausted.  We wound up just lying around in the Salon, rested and watched 3 movies on the computer (thanks Tony). We really needed this!

Even the simplest task on a boat requires planning and usually results in the entire Salon a wreck. Imagine having to remove the cushions and digging under the Salon benches, cabin sole (floor boards), etc to locate the necessary tools to begin.  You not only have to dig for everything you need, but you first have to remember where you hid them. Not to mention that trying to route wires in the boat usually winds up with having to drop the ceiling panels, side panels or both. We have done this so many times that we are actually getting good at it.

Here is the list of projects that were completed this time around;

  • Installed AIS (Automatic Identification System) – OptimaMarine
  • Installed RADAR – OptimaMarine
  • Replaced the Lazy Jacks and Sail Cradle – Island Nautical
  • Repaired the Bimini – Island Nautical
  • Installed Solar Panels and Wind Turbine – SunCoast Marine
  • Replaced broken engine mount and realigned prop shaft – M.D. Marine

At the time of this post we have everything installed and all repairs complete except we are still wrestling with a leaking DSS (Dripless Stuffing Seal).  Although replacing the broken engine mount (no more vibration) and the shaft alignment has reduced the amount of water entering through the seal, we want it DRIPLESS as the name implies. My old childhood friend Mark (who I haven’t seen in 40 years), lives nearby in St. Pete (M.D. Marine) is an expert Yanmar mechanic and is going to replace the DSS with a different type. This should be completed the first week in March.

As we prepare to finally start our sailing adventure we find that we are excited about what lies ahead but also sad to leave our new friends Daniel, Lori, Rick & Tanya, that we made while in Clearwater.