Day Sailer Cockpit Drains

[Jesnodoughnut]

I have just bought a day sailer and am cleaning it up, preparing it for repair and paint when I saw the cockpit drain hole on the bottom of the boat as seen in the attached pictures.

My question, is this drain something that the previous owner did or is this a proper drain. If it is made by the previous owner, is it a smart place for a drain or should I close it up.

Your input is much appreciated.

 

[Sunbird22358]

It looks a bit "modified", but there was a self-bailer fitting that was installed there as standard equipment on the DS II. On my 1979 model it is plastic (actually same unit as on a SUNFISH, but longer pipe to accomidate thicker hull structure), earlier boats (1971-about 1976) had an aluminum version.

I thought I had a few good pictures of mine, but I guess I don't. My boat is in hte water for the season now, so I can't take any pics of the outside part of the setup (I have included two below of the boat without the bailer in place, one of the inside view, one of the outside, not the best... but it's what I have) I also added one that sort-of shows the bailer from outside.

The fitting can be purchased from D&R Marine, www.drmarine,com not cheap (about $50.00) but it does more or less do a good job of draining water from rain or any splashing while sailing. If you trailer your boat you could just smooth up that hole and fit a rubber stopper while sailing. The self-bailer like I have needs a hole (about 1" -1 1/4" diam.) through the bottom of the boat (It includes a plug to seal) but is a nice feature.

 

[Jesnodoughnut]

Excellent Sunbird. Great advice and the pictures really help! Thank you.