Two Thumbs Up For SailCare!

The jib sail is back from SailCare and I'm impressed, looks and feels like a new sail. I knew it would obviously come back looking cleaner but I didn't think they would be able to remove all the rust and grease stains. This is a welcome surprise...

I can't believe this old sail was in such good shape, they added some tell-tales and said no repairs were necessary. Customer service was friendly and helpful and they had it back to me in two weeks.

I am amazed at not only how clean it is, but also how they manage to restore the stiffness and feel of a new sail. I will definitely be sending in my 150 in the fall for the same treatment. I wish I would have taken before and after photos but I honestly didn't think there would be that much difference in appearance.

Almost There!

I'm updating the to-do list on my O'day 22 with some completions and additions...

Check masthead and sheaves
Inspect all clevis pins and retainer rings
Remove, inspect and reseal chain plates
Service winches
Repair or replace bow eye
Install new engine bracket
Finish repair on engine lower unit

Never made it in the water last year, life just always seems to get in the way. I have actually completed some projects and got some of the bigger purchases out of the way.
After closer inspection the motor bracket has seen better days, half of the bushings for the pivot pins are actually missing. They look like their made from cast aluminum and have just disintegrated, replacing with a Garelick 71057 purchased on sale at Wholesale Marine.

Between the two boats I have three head sails, two standard jibs and a heavy duty 150 genoa. I sent the better of the two jibs out to SailCare to be inspected and cleaned. They confirmed that it was a good sail and just needed cleaning, will cost $133 and should have it back next week. The genoa doesn't look like it saw much use so I think I'll let it fly. Would be nice to have a 130 genoa to balance out the sail inventory, maybe I can sell the extra jib and find a used one.

I decided I just wasn't comfortable with the standing rig that came with boat number two. I found a meat hook in one of the side stays and most of the turnbuckle toggles were slightly bent so I decided not to risk it. I opted for peace of mind and ordered a complete set of rigging from Rudy at D&R Marine. Also bought a new tiller handle while I was at it.

My last big obstacle is to finish repairing the lower unit on the Suzuki DT8. I completely rebuilt the unit with new bearings, seals, water pump and some other hard parts. It's been sitting horizontal on a pallet in the warehouse at work and I noticed a puddle of gear oil the other day. Electrolysis chewed up the housings pretty good so I think I know where the leak is and fixing it shouldn't be that difficult.

I just need a couple weekends to finish up these last few tasks...