A Day of Boat Repairs: From Poop Pumps to Chain Plates
Ep 19 40 year old chainplates - https://youtu.be/9kUijpdwBNw
Ahoy, sailors!
Today's blog post takes us on a journey through a typical day of boat repairs. As any seasoned sailor knows, maintaining a vessel is a never-ending task, and sometimes, it's the small things that require the most attention.
Our day begins with a rather unpleasant task—fixing the poop pump-out. Yes, you heard that right. The dreaded poop pump-out. With determination in our hearts (and a clothespin on our noses), we set out to tackle the problem. After a bit of troubleshooting, we manage to locate the culprit—a broken bolt. With some elbow grease and a few choice words, we're able to remove the old bolt and replace it with a new one. Crisis averted!
But our work is far from over. Next on the agenda: chain plates. These vital components play a crucial role in supporting the rigging of our boat, so it's essential that they're in top condition. Unfortunately, upon closer inspection, we discover that several of the chain plates are bent out of shape, likely as a result of wear and tear over the years.
Undeterred, we set out to measure the length of the bolts for the chain plates, only to encounter another obstacle—the screws are stubbornly stuck in place. With patience and a steady hand, we manage to loosen the screws enough to take the necessary measurements. But our troubles don't end there.
As we examine the chain plates further, we realize that the damage is more extensive than we initially thought. Nearly all of them are bent, and one of the support mechanisms is twisted out of shape. It's a sobering realization, but one that we're determined to address head-on.
Armed with this new information, we reach out to a rigger who specializes in titanium chain plates. While the cost may be slightly higher, we believe it's worth the investment for the long-term durability and reliability of our boat.
As the day draws to a close, we reflect on the challenges we've faced and the lessons we've learned. Boat repairs may not always be glamorous, but they're an essential part of ensuring our vessel remains seaworthy for many voyages to come.
Until next time, fair winds and smooth sailing!
Todd