Quote:
Originally Posted by CharlieCobra
Sounds like you're fixin' to learn a bit more about boats.
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You are not kidding there
In ref to other contributions all valid points and agree with each one...
Kinda reminds me of when I first did RVing... 30 somethings generally do not RV, but since I was traveling from Philly to Seattle all the time, and staying for months on end, I bought an old 35' Airstream. Worked well and the per diem more than paid for it - but it was old, none the less a classic. Refurbed some of it, but sometimes to get what you want you get new. So traded it on a new model and got a substantial discount on the purchase. However a Catalina has none of those trade-in qualities sadly lol.
The issue does come down to time versus what is the expected outcome and overall is it worth it. As it stands the coring on the deck will need to be replaced that means to do it properly - untabbing the deck and making new (lotsa work)...
As for Jeff's comment:
I am also concerned that you think that the through deck connectors are the source of your rot problems. If they were properly installed, with all of the holes potted and the fittings properly bedded, there is no way
The first year I had it - I installed all the radar, GPS, etc...did the thru holes using (see image) - used 3M sealant the whole nine yards...silicone on top for additional safety.
Next year - I needed to add the DSM unit to it and run the Radar cable through the deck and up through to the pedestal...So I pulled the old connectors - and wallah - to my dismay the core was rotten beyond belief...Lesson learned - use piping and actual epoxy to secure it and not those through deck 'water tight' systems...The 3M sealant (which was recommended for this purpose) - was not the ideal stuff since now I understand what the 'pros' use from watching everything in boatyard (one learns alot there)...While it never was apparent - I imagine most people install once and never check it later and so it is thought 'no problem'...
At any rate in the process of still removing everything... and at this juncture learn how to fiberglass and proper use of epoxy... At least at this point the boat is in the yard and not racking up fees....
hellosailor: Thanks for the link - btw anyone in the Seattle area - Fiberlay (which is where I got my supplies as it is down the road from me) no longer carries the System 3 products due to a major price increase from the supplier. They do have their own line of epoxies which I will try out...(wondering if anyone has used their in house brand before?)....
At any rate - thanks for the inputs and if anyone has suggestions here in Seattle for getting marine grade balsa - would welcome it....