J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment New season, new projects

Thanks Bill, I'm now thinking that I can set up an acid wash loop with my stainless head brewing pump once it is re-assembled and then do a thorough flush. I was worried about the relative difference in hardness of the valve seat patch, weld bead is supposed to be tougher than the steel it welds right? Either way, the pitting is telling me that it's time to keep an eye out for a new head anyway and hopefully I can keep this one chugging away until I happen upon one in a yard sale or marine junk yard one day.

I have been using degreaser and a medium abrasive sponge to remove the corrosion, rust and residue from the head, gasket and block mating surfaces and then polishing with 800-1200 wet sanding paper. I should have the engine back together today with a little luck. (knocking on wood)

After a long day the engine is back together, a little enamel even makes it look pretty. Sputtered and fought at first but then settled into regular rhythm. I'm just happy it didn't explode.

Hey Josh, see my PM - may have a cylinder head for you.

So this is why you inspect your standing rigging. I have a call into annapolis rigging to try and order the conversion kit.




Alternatively, as I have a date with the travel lift on friday morning, what's everyones opinion on welding the stress cracks and fabricating a steel connector out of stainless rod that would wrap around the front of the mast and connect the spreader plates together? Foolhardy or can I reasonably expect to not be dismasted (at least for this season?)

the wheels are spinning...

Having not heard back from annapolis rigging and not wanting to miss my launch, I decided to get creative. This is not a permanent fix, the through mast conversion is definitely on the to do list, but it should get me through the season and makes me feel more comfortable with the state of the spreaders.

Yikes! I really need to get this fix done on Ananda. I think that will happen next year.

I will definitely go up and take a close look at the spreader brackets though, after seeing your pictures!

So the deed is done, she is floating on her mooring! Feeling better about the spreader fix as that is what is recommended by the North Sails tuning guide.

Looking good Josh. Nice job with all the work you did to get the boat launched.

Josh,
I installed the Annapolis spreader kit with the mast up. Not too bad. In FL the mast stays up all year long.

Rob