Old Boat for New Sailor

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Aug 4, 2005
3
Catalina 22 San Antonio
Tried this post yesterday, but it didn't register. Just acquired a 1976 Catalina 22 that has been sitting on a trailer in the Texas sun for the last 10 years. It was pretty ugly, but I have been working to get it back in shape. I have replaced all the running rigging, refinished the teak, killed all the mold/mildew, and new bottom paint is scheduled. The standing rigging looks OK to me. It has lots of cracks in the gelcoat, but they are just cosmetic. I am interested in hearing from those experienced in returning old boats to service on anything I have not considered that could cause me difficulty once its back in the water. I am trying to minimize any surprises. Have I overlooked anything important? Really appreciate any advice anyone has. Thanks, Gary
 
B

Bob

Closer exam

You want to examine your standing rigging real closely, as it could very well be the original stuff. Wire terminals and turnbuckles can have cracks visible only under magnification. Though good stainless lasts a long time, it should be checked and replaced when necessary because its life is not infinite. Spraying water on the deck and cabin can help you locate any leaks that might have developed in those areas.
 
Dec 5, 2004
121
- - San Leon, TX
the swing keel

If yours has a swing keel you MUST replace the lifting cable. When you don't it breaks unexpectedly and the keel falls to the bottom, around 500lbs or so. Also since it is already on the hard, you might consider dropping the keel completely and checking for excessive wear of the hinge pin and hinge pin hole. g'Luk
 
Jun 16, 2005
476
- - long beach, CA
76 CATALINA

GARY; I would replace the standing rigging just as a matter of peace of mind. It's probably original and suspect, plus service the keel pin and replace that cable, too. If you're going to use the trailer, wheel bearings should be replaced as well as the races, maybe even the tires, too. Check the chainplates as well.
 
S

Steve C.

And as for leaks

I would remove and rebed everything from the stanchions, pulpit(s), winches, everything bolted to the deck, including all that teakwork you just finished. Ten years of expanding and contracting sounds like a perfect scenario to crack all your bedding compound. When you rebed, remember not to crank it down until the bedding compound is dry, then only firmly. Check your engine bracket mounting holes too. Doesn't sound very important, until you remember that water will spread into your decking and cause rot as it drips it's way along the bolt. Also, check the cabintop where the mast steps for any compression. Good luck.
 
Aug 4, 2005
3
Catalina 22 San Antonio
Who Knew!!!

WOW! What a great tool for someone who knows little about sailboats. Regarding rebedding. I did use the 3M 4200 Silicon Sealer on on the through holes when I replaced the teak work. Will that be sufficient? We have had plenty of rain and I haven't noticed any leaks inside the cabin. I have been advised by many to replace the standing rigging. I had hoped to avoid that, but guess its not worth putting it off. I just dropped the swing keel last night. The keel pin was worn half way through. I was so loose I was able to tap it out with a punch and hammer with very little effort. Hanger brackets looked fine as did the keel. I planned to replace the cable and ball just because I have read too many posts of those that have had cables break. I really appreciate everyone's input. Thanks, Gary
 
Jun 3, 2004
730
Catalina 250 Wing Keel Eugene, OR
Use caulk

Gary, generally silicon is not the best thing to use when attaching items to your boat. Use a caulk like 3M 4200 (removable) or 5200 (permanent!). You will be OK for now but if you redo the teak I'd suggest you switch. A great reference manual is to get a West Marine catalog. In each section they have a couple of pages explaining the products and choices, for instance, when to use silicon and when to use caulk. I learned a lot about boats and maintenance by reading the WM catalog! I also suggest you get the Catalina Direct catalog. They have all the parts for your C22 and that catalog is a great reference too.
 
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