Recent content by Frank Langer

I think part of the problem is that if one needs to motor, the prop shaft will be turning, so any tape applied where the prop shaft exits the boat will not hold, be ripped off by the turning shaft. Perhaps a rubber piece around that opening, taped in place could reduce water inflow. I hope I...

I know that PSS tech staff now recommend replacing the rubber bellows and clamps every 6 years, used to be 11 until their lawyers said 6. When I spoke with them, they said that they can last up to 25 years if not neglected or immersed in oil. Aside from that, incorrect tension (the correct...

Our cutless bearing has been in place for 20 years of our ownership, and still looks fine with no real looseness or play room, but spins freely. Frank

Yeah, that looks like a rusted zerk fitting. I would drill it out, clean the area, add some epoxy if needed, then thread in a new zerk. And apply grease once or twice per year to keep the rudder turning easily inside the rudder tube. If you look carefully you might also find a second zerk above...

I found the metal clips a year ago at a normal fabric shop as we were buying new curtain material. You might want to check those. Frank

I have the mushroom type, not flush. All my previous ones were also mushroom, so it was easier to use those. Frank

So they are looking much better, pretty good. How about 3 coats of clear gloss varnish to really brighten them up, protect them. Not difficult with only light sanding between coats, foam brush to throw away. Easy! Frank

Bleach can leave the sail a bit yellow, so be careful, rinse quickly and well. Perhaps try a weaker bleach solution first, mixed with water. Frank

Doug, Mine were installed about four years ago. I don't know if the design and manufacture of these thru hulls has changed in any way. The company was easy to communicate with, and they had a good web page, so you can get up to date information and instructions. Frank

Doug, The Tru Design thru hulls do not need a backing plate. Frank

Yes the collars came with the thru hulls and are a good protection. I highly recommend them. Frank

Have you considered the Tru Design thru hulls, made in New Zealand, but quite widely avaliable. I prefer them over all others, have had them on my boat for several years. Frank

Shortening the drain hose is no problem, as any water coming up through the hose will quickly drain out. Caulking the drain fitting is easy. You may find that you still get water into the V-berth, in which case it will be necessary to remove the anchor locker (about 20 screws and caulking) to...

But a boat with improvements or regular maintenance with parts replaced, and cosmetically on good shape will fetch a better price than otherwise, so you will get some of that investment back. Frank

Sorry to hear this, but as an owner of a1984 E30+, these are great boats, easy to sail, fast, well built, etc. You might want to replace the fuel tank if that hasn't been done, as they usually begin to leak around 35 years. Good luck with the repairs, these boats are worth it! Frank