Catalina 27 Stem Fitting

[Joidevivre]

I am currently refitting the bow area of our '74 Catalina 27: Rebed pulpit, samson post, and docking cleats; new haus pipe; new cowling and flange, new anchor roller, anchor and rode; new chain locker bulkhead and door; and rewire now navigation lights. I am also installing a Selden retractable bowsprit. Can't wait to do inside jibes w/o tearing our asym on the rusty Danforth!

My question is about the stem fitting. As an older boat ours is the original short stem fitting that stops above the rub rail. While i have the bow apart, should I:

1) Remove and rebed the existing stem
2) Replace w a long stem: http://www.catalinadirect.com/index.cfm/product/1108_59/stem-fitting-c-27-wlong-chainplate.cfm

Both are considerably more work, #2 even more so as it would involve messing w the run rail. The stem doesn't currently seem to be loose or leaking (unlike everything else on the bow...)

Appreciate any thoughts or suggestions.

Cheers,
JdV

 

[jimg]

My thoughts and suggestions would be to not touch it. Seriously, there is more than likely absolutely nothing wrong with it as is. They are very strong and securely attached, and I would not be concerned about it at all. I obviously can't see your boat, though. It's really your call.

 

[Joidevivre]

Thanks for the input Jimg, am leaning toward same conclusion.

Any other comments from other Catalina owners?