Sand, sand, sand

the boat...she is one Smooth Bottom Girl (baby's bottom). Most of the barrier coat remains and I am about ready to spray paint. There were are few high and low spots but nowhere near what was faired the first run. Not too worried about < 10 mil of barrier. Darbo thought we had plenty of paint to begin with. The goal is smooth and fast over rough and protected so smooth it is. I have gone over every mm several times and have just a couple of small areas to finish off.

SBRW is not looking realistic but painting and wet sanding this weekend may be a reality. Then, more sanding (wet sanding the balto with 400grit). Margaritas and dollar store ponchos should get us there. Then burnish with bronze wool - more margaritas. A bit of hull cleaning / polishing, removing those pesky VA registration numbers. Getting the electrical system back together and the ole beemer 1 cylinder going. Then to tend to the trailer and splash - June 15th? Revised sailing goal July 4th. Going for it. There will still be plenty of races to hit.  We are practically there!

Getting the thru-hulls sealed in with 5400 marine silicone was a little messy but should keep the H2O out. Also plan to get the valves in this weekend and take care of some of the pluming.  Can't wait to get some fresh paint on the interior but have no issue waiting until we are in the water. Excited about the new depth sensor as I kinda remember, way back when this boat floated, having no clue what the depth of the water actually was. I hope that the new meeter will be better then the old estimated depth + or - 10ft. display.

  

The Sailing Anarchy Forum has provided more information then I could have otherwise found and has quickly become my go to resources. I totally get the danger of putting too much trust in the community but these guys are out there doing it every day. I have gained a lot of valuable knowledge. I suppose the proof will be on the race course. Here we come!


FBG # 30812 - Making the Rocking World Go Round!