That fitting on my boat is secured by only two big self-tapping screws. There're just there to hold the boom onto the sleave of the gooseneck, no real mechanical connection intended.
Is there play, resulting in gradual loosening? Perhaps a shim would help. I don't think the thru-bolt needs to be involved.
Dear Christian,
My name is David Eckert. We connected a few years ago on the Ericson Owners Group when I bought my Ericson Quintessence, which I renamed Salty Dog.
I saw your pisode a few months ago bout your devastating loss in the fire. I truly understand what that feels like. I lost my home in the Bastrop Complex Fire, the largest wildfire in Texas history. That was more than a decade ago, and it taught me hard lessons about life. Now at, 61, I’ve faced my share of challenges: a major health scare last year, a triple bypass, heart valve replacement, and then my wife underwent double knee replacements. Because of all that, we had to part with our beloved Salty Dog, a sister ship to yours, the same year and model, an ’84 381. Sailing dreams are still alive, but for now, they’re on hold.
I’m writing today not about sailing or boats, but about books, and about someone we both know well.
I want to collaborate with you on a project that deserves to be told on the biggest stage possible. A project to bring the legend of Joshua Slocum out of history books and into popular culture, and eventually, to the big screen.
I’ve written a screenplay titled “Spray.” It tells Slocum’s story: from his harsh boyhood in Nova Scotia, to a runaway schooner cook, to becoming captain and part-owner of the Northern Light after sixteen years of relentless work at sea. His life was an epic rise and fall that built toward the crescendo of his legendary solo circumnavigation of the globe.
As someone who grew up in California, I remember passing Joshua Slocum restaurant in Newport Beach, it was a name that always sparked curiosity. Today, I want to make sure the man behind that name is remembered by a new generation.
I’ve prepared a visual “look book” that lays out my vision for the film, but I would never impose by sending it without your invitation. The screenplay is complete, and the novel is already 26 chapters in, about halfway there.
You bring far greater sailing experience than I do, and your screenwriting talent is something I deeply respect. As an aspiring screenwriter, I would value the opportunity to learn from you and collaborate on a story that I’m passionate about. If our generation doesn’t bring Slocum’s tale to life, his legacy will vanish like his old Newport Beach restaurant, a memory few will recall.
Every great project starts with rough edges that need to be smoothed out—like a fine coat that must be pressed before it’s worn. I believe this is that kind of project.
Will you partner with me to tell Slocum’s story anew for a new generation?
Thank you for considering this.
With respect and anticipation,
David W. Eckert
Author of Spray — Screenplay and Novel
