Back to the lockers...

After a couple days of discouraging discoveries, it is refreshing to make progress on one of our less troublesome projects.

I completed prepping the starboard salon lockers (above) and was able to apply a coat of primer on the area (below)

Hopefully tomorrow I can return and apply the top coat.

Thanks to everyone that has replied with suggestions on the mast repairs/replacement.  We are in the process of collecting information on our options...

• Waiting for Sparcraft-US to return with a quote for a new rig
•  Using the internet and message boards to seek for an appropriate used mast

Once we have a clear picture of the options for replacing the mast, then we plan to investigate local options for repairing the mast.   Based on input from multiple sources cutting the mast at the damaged area and inserting an interior sleeve is the best option for repair. 

We are still collecting ideas and seeking information on replacement options - SV C'est la Vie

Thanks for your comments and support.

Is the glass half full or half empty?

This morning I began to remove the chain plates to facilitate painting both the internal lockers and the decks.  At first I was amazed at the amount some of the nuts had loosened over the 4 years since I last removed and re-bedded the chain plates.  I was able to loosen a couple by hand despite the presence of a lock washer.  Guess I need to add this check to a list of annual projects.

Below is an image of the damage discovered when the portside, forward chain plate was removed.

The chip of metal in my hand simply fell away when I removed the bolts.

Four years ago, I refinished the aft chain plates.  On C'est la Vie the aft plates are larger and attach to both an upper shroud and a lower shroud.  The forward, smaller plates only attach to a lower shroud.  Impressed by the craftsmanship and the cost of the repairs Lindow Marine Services provided when repairing the bobstay.   We now plan to have 4 new chainplates made up in stainless steel.

We anticipated discovering some hidden repairs when we stepped the mast, but the surprises continue to surface.    I continue to dwell on the glass half full perspective - at least we are discovering all these required repairs while on the hard rather that via a rig failure at sea.

Discovering damage to the mast... what now?

Pulling the mast was always in the plan for this summer.  Discovering wear/chafe at the point the mast passes through the deck was not in the plan.

The damage is on both the port and starboard sides of the mast. In the worst areas the erosion is at least 1/16" to 1/8" deep.  The discovery of the damage pained me. We are now exploring 3 options:  repair, replace with used mast, replace with new mast.

If anyone out there is willing to share there insights into repair options, then we are eager to hear from you.  I can provide some additional detailed images if it would be helpful.

If anyone out there knows of a used / salvaged mast for a 34 Morgan, then please contact us.

WE can be reached via this blog or via email  SV - C'est la Vie 

I have already requested a quote on a replacement mast & boom from Sparcraft.  We pulled the mast to address issues with spreader attachment; convert to internal halyards; add the hardware for a removable inner stay; and repair the main outhaul.  If we opt for a new mast, then cost of these repairs modifications will be incorporated into a new rig, but we are still afraid of the anticipated price.  Hopefully Sparcraft will pleasantly surprize us.  They are based in Charlotte, NC.  According to their website, they own and operate their own delivery truck.  Proximity may save us some $$.