Last night my wife and I closed the deal on a 1976 Catalina 22 with a swing-keel. We stewed over the idea of a few days, but eventually decided it was too good of a deal to pass up. The hull is in great shape and the hardware seems brand new; the previous owner threw in the trailer and 8' Avon inflatable -- all for $1,500. He was in the process of replacing the swing-keel cable and zincs, so we need to finish that (all materials included). We also need to purchase an outboard, which will surely cost more than the boat did! I'd be curious to know if folks think we got a good deal?
Anyway, we're eager to get her cleaned up and are thrilled to find this website, along with others. I'll post photos as our project moves along. Thanks in advance for any help and advice. We do have a few questions to start:
Anyway, we're eager to get her cleaned up and are thrilled to find this website, along with others. I'll post photos as our project moves along. Thanks in advance for any help and advice. We do have a few questions to start:
- Any suggestions on how best to clean and shine the hull?
- What size outboard do you recommend? We live in Southeast Alaska, and while these are inside waters they can get pretty big. I know a 5hp would get us to hull speed, but we're considering a 9.8 Tohatsu in order to get a 25" shaft, alternator, external fuel tank, and electric start. The PO upgraded the motor mount so it can definitely handle a larger engine.
- The cabin cushions are original and very musty. We don't really know how to sew, and can't afford to buy new. Any solutions in between?
- I think I understand how the keel mechanism works, but would really appreciate any advice on how to reconnect the zincs, cable, hose, and winch.
- Anyone have suggestions about how to route the running rigging so everything can be managed from the cockpit?
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