Last year (2011) we took care of some large ones: 3 new sails; new wind/speed/depth instruments; new chartplotter/radar; new primary anchor and new chain rode; and almost all running rigging replaced.
Still, so many projects to start/complete before we head south in August (or will that be September?)
We have some larger items we know we need/want to take care of, such as (not in any special order):
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- backstay insulators for SSB antenna
- standing rigging check and, if needed, replace rigging
- purchase and install solar panels (which brand?)
- AIS transponder
- repair or replace several portlights
- install permanent chair or bench for nav desk
- remove large wooden navpod over companionway and replace with low-profile shelf
- cockpit table
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- purchase/install liferaft
- EPIRB
- engine maintenance
- haul boat, bottom paint, etc
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and lots and lots of "smaller" items, such as:
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- improve arrangements for computer on nav station
- manual foot pump in galley
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- heavy weather tie downs (drawers, floorboards, etc)
- add more fans
- more interior LED lights
- etc, etc, etc
And then there are the questions about "luxury" items:
- do we install a watermaker (current answer: "No"). If yes, which type?
- do we replace our older energy-hungry refrigerator with a newer more-efficient one? (Current answer: Hmmmm, maybe)
- New generator? (Current answer: No! We'll stick with our Honda e2000)
The list goes on and on (and on). I guess this is how everybody feels as they prepare to leave. And I (David) am the type that has to have everything "just so". I know, I know -- "everyone" (all those websites...) says "it'll never be completely ready -- just go". Time to think that way will be when it is getting closer -- in the Summer.
Must be lots of others feeling the same way right now.
Sorry to hear about the injuries!
ReplyDeleteWe love our little Honda. The batteries like to be brought to 100% occasionally and when it gets cloudy it's lovely not to use the main engine. Takes space/weight of course and every once in a while we have to change its oil, but overally a great backup system.
Happily, we seem to healing fast!
DeleteAhhh, the Honda. We purchased it specifically for our trip to Haida Gwaii (and for later sailing, of course). Worked fine Summer of 2010. Wouldn't you know it, it was used once on the way up to Haida Gwaii in 2011, then was DEAD all the rest of the Summer. Everyone said "they are so dependable...". Turned out to be a major part (warranty) that took 3 weeks in dealer (waiting for part from Japan). "Luckily", we had to do a lot of motoring up North, so never had a batteries problem. But, it is working fine now. Hope it stays that way.
(Still, getting warranty repairs on the portable Honda was certainly easier than if it had been a built-in generator on the boat!)
Down payment made on Hydrovane; design for its installation determined with a very helpful visit by Will Curry to Pelagia
Re: watermaker. We didn't have one the first time but lugging jugs for three years convinced us it was a must have (and currently lugging jugs while in the Brisbane River really makes us miss it...). If you do go without--try to set up a good water catchment system (though it won't be much help in Mexico...) Also buy smaller jerry jugs--we found the 3 gallon size were easier to carry when full and easier to get filled in strange places.
ReplyDeleteAdding a salt water footpump to the galley is also a great way to save water--we always do a salt rinse before washing.
Good luck getting ready!
Thanks for comments/suggestions! (Yes, we have a salt water pump.)
DeleteWe have been going back and forth on the question of a watermaker, for the reasons you give, plus the initial cost and ongoing maintenance of watermaker are also issues.
"Currently", we've decided to wait until we get to California before making this decision. If "yes", then we have to decide between 12V system or other.