Projects while sole is removed...

Down2TheC · **Posted:** 02 May 2009 18:08

Sadly, High Flight will be a month behind in getting in this season due to ice damage on the keel. The estimate for repairs includes removal of the sole. So my question is...

What projects could I take on in that time that would benefit from the sole being out already?
Looking at the edges, it looks like the bench seats will need to be removed on port and starboard. Anyone know?

Clearly a sand and varnish of the sole would be in order, and we have a water hose to replace (head hot water sink.)
Anything else that will be easier to do while she's gutted?

Tortuga's Lie · **Joined:** 27 Oct 2006 10:32 **Posts:** 827

That's not likely an easy job!!! One project I am getting ready to tackle is to replace all of the fresh water hosing which would be a lot easier without the sole in place. Other than that, there's not a lot of systems that run under the flooring. Good time to clean though, maybe even re-paint the bilge.

Down2TheC · **Posted:** 04 May 2009 10:44

Good call. I could prep and pain the bilge while the keel is off. They'll lay a new bed of the epoxy/goo on the floor, but the rest could use a refresh.

I checked things out yesterday and it looks to me like they can remove the mast step on it's own, leaving the sole in place, and have access to all 10 keel bolts. I'll make a pitch to the service manager this week. The way I figure, something that integral being removed... no good can come of it.

sundog · **Joined:** 15 Aug 2008 18:14 **Posts:** 21

Mind if I ask what kind of keel damage you encountered? I could see how water/ice could damage the sole but what happened to the keel?

Down2TheC · **Posted:** 06 May 2009 01:48

Gee... thought the picture said it. Notice how that bolt on the left is raised up by 4"? That's not good. On the port side of the keel there's a 6" crack and bulge, presumably where the other end of the bolt was being forced up. They say it can't be worked in place so off with the keel. Cause is assumed to be water from the bilge creeping down the bolt and staying there for the winter freeze.

We're standing by to hear if insurance will cover it. Estimate is about one seventh of the boat value so we're kind of hoping they will.

Tartan37.com

Projects while sole is removed...

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