Rhodes' Meridian Question and help

[littlejohnw]

Well, my avatar of the empty outline of a sailboat will and is slowly becoming filled in. I've just purchased a Rhodes' Meridian, 25', 1963. I am so very excited about this new journey and voyage in my life. I imagine it will be a year of restoration work before I launch, but have a few questions before I go to pick her up in two days.....

1. If any of you are familiar with the mast on this boat, I've to un-step the mast. (she is currently dry docked). Could you suggest any tools that I should take for this process? (The guys at the yard will also be helping me and lowering it for me; but I want to be prepared.)

2. I will be hauling her on a 16' x 6'4" wooden platform trailer about 85 miles to my home. Any suggestions from anyone who has hauled a boat before on a flatbed trailer would be appreciated. (My only helper will be my standard poodle Magill)

3. Any advice on hauling a boat.

I've a good friend and older sailor here where I live who has been so very helpful with advice etc. He built a 38' Morgan back in the late sixties and has sailed for years including raising his children part time on the boat.

But again, any suggestions, safety tips, etc. would be greatly appreciated.
Please do not hesitate to email me: jonathanwalshatmacdotcom or jonathanwalshatattdotnet. spelled out so any roaming bots cant hi-jack my email!

[Boasun]

You will need to build a cradle that will support the boat at least of 4 to 6 points on each side of the boat. Plus lash the boat & cradle snuggly to that trailer.

[Kee]

Congrats! I bought a Rhodes Meridian last year. Great little vessel. I have unstepped the mast (on the water) with the help of a friend. Probably easier to talk through the process. If you'd like me to give you a call send me a PM with a number where you can be reached. I'm a bit tied up at the moment but can probably call later today or this afternoon.