Association Forum - Launching List for a C25

Assn Members Area · Join

Home.

Association Forum

Ships Store

Cruising

Racing

Technical Tips

Photo Gallery - New

Boat Search - Updated

Manuals & Brochures

Swap Meet

Links

Officer Flag Line & Staff

Bylaws & Constitution

Members Area

Join the Association

Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.

Association Forum

Username:	Password:
Save Password
Forgot your Password?

All Forums

Catalina/Capri 25/250 Sailor's Forums

Catalina 25 Specific Forum

Launching List for a C25

New Topic

Topic Locked

Printer Friendly

Author

Topic

apgibbs
Deckhand

Member Avatar

USA
13 Posts

Initially Posted - 02/16/2003 : 01:52:13

OK, folks, you've already been a HUGE help in giving me info for cleaning up and starting some necessary upgrades for my new baby. I'll be tackling the outside teak and buffing out the hull when the weather allows. I'll rough up the present bottom paint with a 3M pad and touch it up where needed, then have the pressure washer cranked way up in the fall and repaint then. The spreader mounts are stainless, the batteries are new (I'll probably upgrade the electricals next fall/winter)and everything works, although the Realistic AM/FM tape unit is going to be replaced by a decent unit with CD. I have the Lewmar service kit coming from Sailnet; they need a decent cleaning and lube job. I'll service the outboard, fix the split seam on the tiller cover, inspect the rig again and replace the sealing strip on the anchor locker hatch (torn). The keel bolts are clean, (dry bilge...HOORAY!) and I'll service the head as well. The "factory curtain burner" is being replaced by a butane hotplate, microwave and coffeemaker.

Here's the big question, and don't hold back, folks: What am I missing? Are there other things I should be looking at that might rear up and bite me after the weather warms up and the boat's in the water? In a month or so I'll be able to start on some of these projects, and I'd much rather get them done this spring than in mid-July.

Thanks!

Pat Gibbs "Enchanteur"
C25 #4332 trad/fin

Edited by - on

Buzz Maring
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
1772 Posts

Response Posted - 02/16/2003 : 09:32:51

Hi Pat,

Congratulations on your boat! It sounds to me like you're doing everything right.

I am not an experienced sailor ... many on this Forum are, and I'm sure they will weigh-in with some good ideas. I don't know your experience level, and I don't want to insult your intelligence. That said, here are a couple of things from my novice point of view.

I tend to compare sailing to flying ... there are some similarities, and since I used to fly it is a good place for me to start. I look for what I call "show-stoppers" ... these are mostly safety-related items, and they tend to be items that are structural, they steer or help control the boat, etc.

You didn't mention whether or not you've had a chance to go over your sails and rigging. I don't want to overstate the obvious ... just make sure everything looks sound and won't tear apart the first time you get the sails up. While your boat is on the trailer (or in a slip), it would be a good idea to raise the sails and make sure the slugs aren't getting caught in the track on the mast (check out your reefing setup, too). If you've got hanked-on headsails instead of a roller furler system, make sure your hanks are in pretty good shape. If you plan to single-hand, it would be nice (some would argue essential) to have at least some of your lines led aft to the cockpit (I've got my halyards led aft, and I plan to add a reefing line soon).

Again, if you are going to single-hand your boat, be prepared for it. Depending on where you sail and the conditions, you'll probably want to have a jack line and harness ready to go. At a minimum, I would recommend buying a comfortable PFD that you can wear while you are out by yourself ... I like Sospenders, but there are lots of other choices that work well (there is a recent thread on this subject ... like ALWAYS, I can't find the damned thing ... maybe you will have better luck).

At a minimum, make sure you've got the required safety equipment (flares, air horn, etc.). Just as important, make sure you know where the stuff is, and you can get to it easily. I use my "tool locker" in the starboard settee of the cockpit for all of my safety gear ... I make sure the locker is unlocked and the stuff inside is OK every time before I leave the slip.

I've got an Edson wheel (added by a PO) ... you've likely got a tiller. I am convinced that my push/pull cable will fail sooner or later ... so, I just bought a tool handle I'm going to fashion into an emergency tiller that I can attach to the rudder so I'll be able to steer when the cable finally breaks. I've heard that tiller handles can snap ... you might consider carrying a spare. BTW, I bought a handle for a post hole digger at Home Depot ... it looks like it'll be perfect for a spare tiller.

Finally, your outboard will be in good shape after you tune it ... but no engine will run without gas. I ran out of gas a few weeks ago and barely made it back to the marina <img src=icon_smile_blush.gif border=0 align=middle> ... now I carry a small can of extra fuel.

Well, that's all that comes to mind right now. I know you can't wait to get in the water ... spring is around the corner ... good luck!

Buzz Maring, C-25 SK/SR #68, "Freya"
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3df23b3127cce9306a9b3abad0000001010" border=0>

Edited by - on

apgibbs
Deckhand

Members Avatar

USA
13 Posts

Response Posted - 02/16/2003 : 10:05:27

The spare tiller is a good idea; forgot about that one. I've been over the sails and standing rigging; I'll probably replace the running rigging lines and masthead and go to all-rope halyards. The PO already led the halyards aft to a cabintop Lewmar #7 (I'll make and install a backing plate for that; those washers look too small to me).

Good idea on the safety equipment, too; I'll make sure everyone has a good, well-fitting PFD as well as harnesses and lanyards; and the kids will start swimming classes as soon as I can set them up.

A bit off-topic, but the AC race last night was INCREDIBLE!

See you on the lakes!

Pat Gibbs "Enchanteur"
C25 #4332 trad/fin

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 02/16/2003 : 11:29:04

"What am I missing? Are there other things I should be looking at that might rear up and bite me after the weather warms up and the boat's in the water?"

If the hull is in good shape, the sails are serviceable, the standing rigging is sound, and the motor and rudder are okay, then you should be set for launch, because for the most part any items outside of these can be taken care of while the boat is in the water.

Don Lucier, 'North Star'
C25 SR/FK
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc32b3127cce92e981259d130000001010" border=0>
Cradled on the hard, 200ft from Lake Erie

Edited by - on

lcharlot
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Antigua and Barbuda
1301 Posts

Response Posted - 02/16/2003 : 12:10:12

Pat -
A couple more suggestions- If you have a masthead VHF antenna, test it while the mast is down, so that if it needs replacing you can do it easily. Same for the masthead anchor light and windvane. Look at the outer tips of the spreaders, you will see a plastic fitting that the upper shroud wire runs through, check this for condition and replace it if it looks sun-damaged. Remember that UV attacks and eventually degrades any plastic, even UV resistant plastics. Look at the halyard sheaves and pins in the masthead truck, check for wear, damage, or sticking. These are probably fine, but you might as well check while the mast is down and they're easy to get at.

About mainsail slugs: there are two kinds. The better ones have a stainless steel wire reinforcement, the cheaper ones are just plastic, and after two or three seasons will start breaking. I recommend carrying some spares of these if you don't already have some in your kit.

Where is your boat, fresh or salt water?

Larry Charlot
Catalina 25 #1205 "Quiet Time"
Sacramento, CA

Edited by - on

apgibbs
Deckhand

Members Avatar

USA
13 Posts

Response Posted - 02/16/2003 : 20:01:43

Larry, I'm in Lake Michigan; fresh water. Are the plastic spreader tips readily available, or are they something I should order ahead of time? My main is in good shape, but has the plastic slugs; I'll pick up some spares pronto. While I'm at it, I'll get some spare battens. The jibs are both pretty soft, but serviceable until I get around to adding a furler.

Gee, the list is getting longer; I'm beginning to understand the "hole in the water" litany...but it'll all be worth it the first time I trim the sails this spring!

Pat Gibbs "Enchanteur"
C25 #4332 trad/fin

Edited by - on

Dave Bristle
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Djibouti
10005 Posts

Response Posted - 02/16/2003 : 21:05:08

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
The PO already led the halyards aft to a cabintop Lewmar #7 (I'll make and install a backing plate for that; those washers look too small to me).
<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>
Pat: I usually wouldn't advise against backing things, but your cabintop winch is bolted through a 3/4" plywood-cored cabin top. The forces are essentially horizontal. Fender washers (1" or 1-1/4" or so) should protect the interior liner, and otherwise, the winch isn't going to pull out. But if it does, somebody else wrote this and put my name on it... <img src=icon_smile_cool.gif border=0 align=middle>

Dave Bristle - 1985 C-25 #5032 SR-FK-Dinette-Honda "Passage" in SW CT

Edited by - on

lcharlot
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Antigua and Barbuda
1301 Posts

Response Posted - 02/17/2003 : 02:02:11

The spreader tips might be available from Catalina Direct or the Catalina Factory. They are still making Catalina 22's, which I think might use the same spreader tips as the 25. Give them a call. If there is a stainless steel or aluminum tip available, get that. Metal isn't affected by UV.

Larry Charlot
Catalina 25 #1205 "Quiet Time"
Sacramento, CA

Edited by - on

Todd Frye
Navigator

Members Avatar

USA
222 Posts

Response Posted - 02/17/2003 : 10:11:42

Santa gave me the Catalina Direct "Owner's Handbook", that will offer numerous upgrades for your boat. I have converted the back of this 3 ring binder to my ships log. Comments in this log have brought back many wonderful memories. I also enjoy walking the docks of other marinas for ideas. At the marina 60 miles north, most everyone has their anchor mounted on the bow pulpit or secured to the bow sprit...but my boat is the only one at my marina, with the anchor readily accesible. If my O.B. dies (so far it has only done this when I need it the most)I can quickly drop anchor to avoid drifting into shore,(rocks) or?? I have written up a "Welcome Aboard" placard for guests, as a matter of formality and safety, that gets new comers aquainted with the boat.I have also been able to video some of our family trips with boaty. These get a real work out during the winter and the kids enjoy reliving the adventures. I consider my GPS to be my most useful and enjoyable addition to the boat, followed real close by the auto pilot. Practise man over board drills a few times each season. I like to swim under the boat with snorkel gear...check the swing keel, etc. Getting aquainted with snorkeling will pay big dividends when you take your boat to the jazz festival on Catalina Island. Todd Frye

Edited by - on

Bryan Beamer
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
1038 Posts

Response Posted - 02/17/2003 : 11:57:09

Todd,

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>I have written up a "Welcome Aboard" placard for guests, as a matter of formality and safety, that gets new comers aquainted with the boat. <hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>

That is a nice idea. Do you have a copy you can post?

Bryan Beamer
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3dc23b3127cce9462f2858f2b0000001010" border=0>
Daylight Again
C250wk #495

Edited by - on

jwilliams
Captain

Members Avatar

USA
357 Posts

Response Posted - 02/17/2003 : 21:22:38

Hey Pat,

Check the screws that hold the gudgeons to the transom.

If yours are loose, missing or won't tighten you should do the fix many of us have and install thru-bolts with robust backer plates inside the transom. You will have to also install an access port to get at the upper screws. On Hey Jude I lost two of the three screws on the bottom gudgeon and only discovered it while mid-bay in a wind when the rudder got toooooo wiggly. (The scientific term is dumdidntcheckit.)

Check the bolts that hold the engine bracket to the transom.

Backer plates again. Mine is made from 7/8 plywood, as large as I could fit into the space.

Check all the engine bracket bolts and those that hold the thick board to the bracket. (Whaddaya call that thing...I know, the thick board!)

What do you have in the way of line? Something big enough to tow you home? Something to throw to a man overboard? Spares? I have a habit of throwing a line around floating deadmen and towing them back to the marina because I hate the idea of someone running into them in the dark. (My buddy Paul thinks I'm demented.) A 20ft x 2 x 12 studded with rusty bolts will make a dent in your savoir-faire. A 50ft 3/8 braided poly line floats and works fine.

Can you bail if you had to? Manual bilge pump and a bucket.

Sounds trivial and sooo basic, but it ain't no fun if you get so sun and windburned that you are unable to function. I know of a singlehanding skipper that ignored forgetting his sunglasses, and after a day of sailing could barely see well enough from burning eyes and tears to get back into his slip, no joke. So, hats, sunscreen, sun glasses. Also, I don't plan to be a candidate for melanoma. My usual getup is longsleeve shirt, brimmed goofy-looking sailing hat, good sunglasses and sunscreen goop on everything that is exposed, especially nose, neck and ears!

On the subject of comfort. No one has fun when they are wet and cold. And it is so easy to prevent it by just putting on the slickers and clothes before!!!you need to. Kirsten is fine when the spray is showering us, the boat is pounding, we're heeling 20 degrees, the wind whistling, etc. as long as she is dry and warm in her wet weather slicker suit. But on a 70 degree day and she's in shorts, one shot over the bow and she gives me that look, "its time to go home!!" A good skipper keeps the crew happy.

Good sailing!

Jim Williams
Hey Jude C25fk 2958
Half Moon Bay, CA

Edited by - on

Todd Frye
Navigator

Members Avatar

USA
222 Posts

Response Posted - 02/19/2003 : 12:14:18

Bryan,
When trying to post my "Welcome Aboard" placard, the list came out in a continuous paragraph format that was hard to read as a list. I have sent it on via e-mail to you instead. I was hoping to post it to get suggestions from others. Maybe everyone could still make suggestions on how to "brief" newcomers, prior to coming on board. Cheers. Todd Frye

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 02/19/2003 : 14:49:01

"Maybe everyone could still make suggestions on how to "brief" newcomers, prior to coming on board."

Before casting off, I inform all guests that there will be NO unauthorized swimming(ie..falling overboard) and that this rule is strictly enforced! <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>

Don Lucier, 'North Star'
C25 SR/FK
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc32b3127cce92e981259d130000001010" border=0>
Cradled on the hard, 200ft from Lake Erie

Edited by - on

Bryan Beamer
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
1038 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 00:08:43

Todd

Did not get your e-mail. The forum e-mail system does not always work. Try this link bryanjonbeamer@cs.com

Bryan Beamer
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3dc23b3127cce9462f2858f2b0000001010" border=0>
Daylight Again
C250wk #495

Edited by - on

Ray Seitz
Captain

Members Avatar

USA
416 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 07:14:55

Todd/Bryan that list sounds like a good Idea. I am not much into speeches and I usually come off too negative (at least thats what the CMDR tells me). I would like to take a look at it too if possible. trseitz@fuse.net

<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3df06b3127cce944032c5b1370000000010" border=0>On the hard &
Under Roof Cave Run Lake KY
Ray Seitz C 250WB #628 Sea Major

Edited by - on

Bryan Beamer
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
1038 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 09:49:43

Don,

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>Before casting off, I inform all guests that there will be NO unauthorized swimming(ie..falling overboard) and that this rule is strictly enforced! <hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>

I like this one, does it work?<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>

Bryan Beamer
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3dc23b3127cce9462f2858f2b0000001010" border=0>
Daylight Again
C250wk #495

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 12:12:37

No one has violated this rule, yet! <img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>

Don Lucier, 'North Star'
C25 SR/FK
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc32b3127cce92e981259d130000001010" border=0>
Cradled on the hard, 200ft from Lake Erie

Edited by - on

Buzz Maring
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
1772 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 13:42:24

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
No one has violated this rule, yet! <img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>

Don Lucier, 'North Star'
C25 SR/FK
<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>

What's the penalty Don ... do you make them walk the plank?

<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>

Buzz Maring, C-25 SK/SR #68, "Freya"
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3df23b3127cce9306a9b3abad0000001010" border=0>

Edited by - on

Derek Crawford
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
3323 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 16:25:20

or throw them a brush and make 'em clean the keel...<img src=icon_smile_approve.gif border=0 align=middle>
Derek

<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3dc30b3127cce942c608d6f1e0000001010" border=0>

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 19:13:08

"or throw them a brush and make 'em clean the keel..."

Now, THIS is a good idea. Maybe before I lower the ladder to retrieve an unauthorized swimmer, I first give them a brush and make them do a penalty lap on my boat's scum line.

Hmmm...I wonder if there is a placard for this?....

Don Lucier, 'North Star'
C25 SR/FK
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc32b3127cce92e981259d130000001010" border=0>
Cradled on the hard, 200ft from Lake Erie

Edited by - on

Todd Frye
Navigator

Members Avatar

USA
222 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 19:27:42

Sorry this has been so hard to post guys. I sail better than I compute. Please feel free to amend this list. It has been a result of past experiences that I think could have been improved on. Todd Frye

<center> WELCOME ABOARD </center>
<ul> Please wear deck shoes while onboard. Street shoes will mar the decks. </ul>
<ul> Do you know how to swim? </ul>
<ul> Life vests are stowed under the port (left) rear dinnette seat.</ul>
<ul> Are you prone to motion sickness? </ul>
<ul> Are you required to take any medications during the time we are out sailing?</ul>
<ul> Do you have those medications with you? </ul>
<ul> Bring water and snacks you enjoy to ensure you have an enjoyable sail. </ul>
<ul> Bring appropriate clothing for weather conditions:</ul>
<ul>HOT WEATHER:</ul>
<ul>Sun hat</ul>
<ul>Dark glasses</ul>
<ul>Sun block</ul>
<ul>White, loose fitting clothes, shorts, swim suit</ul>
<ul>Deck shoes</ul>
<ul>COLD WEATHER:</ul>
<ul>Layering, with wool or fleece</ul>
<ul>Wind proof coat</ul>
<ul>Warm hat that covers the ears</ul>
<ul>Gloves, 2 pair</ul>
<ul>Socks, 2 pair</ul>
<ul>Rubber boots or deck shoes</ul>
<ul>Make yourself familiar with fire extinguisher locations, first aid kit location, throwable life preserver, flares, fog horn, flash lights, cell phone or ships radio, tool kit and marine head(do not put any paper products down marine head, other than on board toilet paper).</ul>
<ul>Inform friends on shore of your float plan.When you are leaving and when you expect to return.</ul>
<ul>Remain on board(or walk the plank)for crew duties after arriving back in the slip. Secure and clean as necessary.</ul>
<ul>Please sign the ships log before departing.</ul>
<ul>Being familiar with nautical terms can make your stay aboard more enjoyable. Please see back of sheet.</ul>

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 19:31:22

Just this past season, I took a friend and his wife out for a sail and she was a little apprehensive about it since she was not a water person(couldn't even swim). Anyway, she voiced her fears about boating, the water, and especially her fear of accidently falling overboard. I told her she didn't have anything to worry about, because unauthorized swimming was not permitted on the boat.

After a little laugh, she said she felt better knowing I had outlawed accidently falling overboard!

Don Lucier, 'North Star'
C25 SR/FK
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc32b3127cce92e981259d130000001010" border=0>
Cradled on the hard, 200ft from Lake Erie

Edited by - on

jheard
1st Mate

Members Avatar

USA
49 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 21:10:15

I have a couple of suggestions. First, check with your local Coast Guard auxillary if one is near you and they will do a safety inspection. Some safety gear you may need: life jackets, fire extinguisher, noise maker (horn, bell), VHF radio, extra hats, jackets, and water, flares, extra halyards, sheets and other lines, sails (of course!), tools (screwdriver set, pliers, hammer), thru hull plugs, duct tape (had to throw that in!), boat hook, chart, extra compass, small garbage bags, the list goes on...

Edited by - on

apgibbs
Deckhand

Members Avatar

USA
13 Posts

Response Posted - 02/20/2003 : 22:19:28

This is going even better than I had hoped. I'm putting all of your suggestions into a big list; a lot of the ideas are so common-sense that I had completely missed them. I the process of getting the spare parts ordered and jobs done I'll be learning a lot about the boat, too.

Pat Gibbs "Enchanteur"
C25 #4332 trad/fin

Edited by - on

Topic

New Topic

Topic Locked

Printer Friendly

Jump To:

Association Forum

Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.