Bristol 32 Centerboard Cable Tube

[Ogrenaut]

I recently discovered a small drip coming from the vicinity of the centerboard cable tube where it runs next to the engine. After carefully removing several layers of epoxy putty (about 1/2 a pound) and duct tape I finally reached the original fiberglass tube. For reasons unknown, the tube appears to have been purposely cut by the POs and then patched with with epoxy putty. Over the years the layers of epoxy putty formed a mass attached to the engine mount box.

Here's where I need help. Should the centerboard cable tube be attached to the engine mount box or should it be independent? Could have, would have, should have taken pictures.

Thanks.

[captlar]

I suspect the tube was cut by PO to feed snake in both directions when the old cable broke. Many Bristol k/cb have had this infamous tube modified or relocated. I cannot tell you if, on the 32, the tube needs to be attached to the engine mount. It does need to be held in place to something (usually glassed in). I can tell you that Bristol owners are quick to replace that cable when it shows wear because it is a pain when it fails on you. Can't snake the tube due to sharp angles.

[Ogrenaut]

Thanks for the quick reply.

This is the piece of the puzzle I was looking for. I think a proper glass job and good support, probably on the engine mount box, should fix my leak. I'll let everyone know how it turns out.

[juda1]

Originally Posted by Ogrenaut

Thanks for the quick reply.

This is the piece of the puzzle I was looking for. I think a proper glass job and good support, probably on the engine mount box, should fix my leak. I'll let everyone know how it turns out.

Looking forward to hearing about your story

[Dcneuro]

I am going to my boat tonight and will try to get some pictures of that for you. Look for a response on Friday...

[Dcneuro]

Don't know if these help, but here are the pictures I promised you.

[Dcneuro]

Not sure what happened to the pictures. Let me know if you know how to post them, otherwise, I can email them to you directly.

[Ogrenaut]

Well, here is the centerboard cable tube after I finished removing the old repair and patches. The cut in the tube is from a previous owner. I tried to do the new fiber glass myself but I mucked it up pretty badly.

I'm having my marina do the repairs right. When they finish I'll post more pictures.

[Ogrenaut]

THE FINAL FIX!
The yacht yard crew did a great job repairing the centerboard cable tube. They removed the damaged tube and glassed in a new fiberglass tube. It's the grey tube in the middle of the picture.

[williamkiester]

Can I ask how much this cost and how I identify this problem, if possible? I'm interested and looking at a Bristol 32 and will be mooring it in a shallow river so the keel/centerboard cable failure would be trouble. Would rather preempt this if possible so I don't end up bending the centerboard.