Making Ready For Spring.
Monday, March 31st, 2008(The Sailors Forum is composed of questions that come to Captain Bob Appleton via e-mail, phone or just general “dock chatting” with other sailors. His answers come from his and others insights and research. Have a question? We’d enjoy hearing from you.)
Q. I’ve read all the articles on making our 38 Ericson ready for the sailing season. Most are general with greater direction given to power boats. I also read your last Sailors Forum in the Nor’easter magazine with regard to lifelines. Very insightful. My question, I’m not keen about going up the mast. Some have said that you can use a good pair of binoculars to assess the fittings at the masthead. Your thoughts on this and anything else you might consider useful. (Rick and Beth Ann)
A. The only way to truly assess the fittings on the mast is to either go aloft (you, your rigger or a good friend who knows what to look for) and inspect them at eyeball level. The best of glasses will not allow proper inspection for crevice corrosion of fittings and wire condition (most failure occurs at the fitting). In addition inspection should include the spreaders and all bolts that travel through the mast; egging of the these holes can occur as well as the bolts becoming deformed. Down below deck check the chainplate tabbing at the bulkheads
With regard to other maintenance items, I would also recommend that all the chainplates be re-bedded at least every other year as well as all deck hardware fittings. Winches should be field stripped, cleaned of old grease and a new coating of grease applied. An inspection of the rudder, cables, and quadrant should also be done. For those with a centerboard have the yard drop your board while the boat is in the slings. Check the trunk pendant, and pin for wear.
There are surely an additional hundred little things to inspect. Just keep in mind, if it moves or is affected by something that does you should inspect it for wear.
Nothing I’ve said will keep the gremlins away but it will give you a better chance. It will also help you to know your boat better.
If anyone has other insights share your knowledge.
(Bob’s articles and Forum can also be found in the Nor’easter Magazine (www.noreastermagazine.com).