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Repairs and Restoration

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amekuto
Deckhand

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USA
5 Posts

Initially Posted - 07/18/2005 : 11:18:54

Hello Everyone,

I recently bought a 1979 catalina 25 swing keel. Its my first boat and I'm relativly new to sailing in general. I took the basic sailing certification course and feel pretty confident behind the helm however I lack knowledge in boats regarding maintnance, repairs, ect. The books I've encountered to learn are basic and do not give a "how to" approach. The boat is in need of work from electronics to rigging and although I shouldn't be to concerned with her appearence she is in much need of that as well. A previous owner painted her with basis house paint (don't ask) which I've been successful in power washing and sanding most of it off. What I'm really in search for is good publications of repairing and restoration work as well as small projects i.e. installing a bilge pump, which this model of catalinas did not have. I'm in Westchester, NY if anyone out there is local and has any information regarding professionals who I could contact regarding work. She is a sturdy boat just needs some TLC. Most important is that I know I have the proper rigging for her so I can put her in the water next season and enjoy sailing her. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!!

Anthony J. Mekuto

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Leon Sisson
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1893 Posts

Response Posted - 07/18/2005 : 15:06:59

Anthony,

I suggest you waste no time in getting hold of a copy of "[url="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0071579931/qid=1121712096/sr=2-1/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_1/102-1744754-2851316"]This Old Boat[/url]" by Don Casey. It's very hands-on, and directed at the beginner restorating, upgrading, and maintaining an older fiberglass coastal cruiser, such as a Catalina 25.
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As I recall, there's a particularly good section in there on proper bilge pumps (a frequently neglected safety system). There's also some basic info on electrics, however the same author also has out a much more thorough book on boat wiring. In fact, Don Casey has written quite a few such books on sailboat related topics such as surveying, refinishing, canvas work, etc.

Once you've read "This Old Boat", and have more specific questions, we can guide you to narrower and more detailed texts. I also have a 1979 C-25. And I have several shelf-feet of boating books. If you post saying, "My next DIY project is {<i>whatever</i>}. Where can I find more detailed info on that topic?" then the members of this organization can point you to specific books we've found helpful.

If you're new to this website, you might benefit from, and even enjoy, reading back into the archives of these forums and exploring the various links off of the main menu.

-- Leon Sisson

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mwalkup
1st Mate

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USA
79 Posts

Response Posted - 07/18/2005 : 17:39:54

Anthony,
I can't recommend it any louder, or say it any better than Leon just did.
I bought my copy of "This Old Boat" three years ago when I bought my 83 Catalina. Really it's been like a bible for many of us here. Mine has more than a few gel-coat/ varnish stains on the pages.

I'd check Amazon.com for a good price and although Mr. Casey may not approve, prehaps a used copy.
Also check out past and present copies of "Good Old Boat" magazine.
It's teriffic for ideas, projects and just plain entertaining.
Best of Luck
Mike
83 t/r f/k

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thaind
Navigator

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Canada
145 Posts

Response Posted - 07/18/2005 : 19:58:12

Try http://www.abebooks.com . They have copies from $24.00. You could do no better than this forum. I was where you are 10 months ago, and many/most of us have followed your path.

Welcome

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ClamBeach
Master Marine Consultant

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3072 Posts

Response Posted - 07/18/2005 : 20:27:43

And of course, you want to get the 'Catalina 25 Owners Bible' from Catalina Direct.

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frog0911
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1349 Posts

Response Posted - 07/18/2005 : 22:01:12

And last, but by far not least become a member of the is Association with all its entitlements including the Mainsheet Magazine.
Welcome to the forum and hopefully the National Associaton.

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amekuto
Deckhand

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USA
5 Posts

Response Posted - 07/19/2005 : 09:39:55

To all,

Thanks for all your advise, I have a heavy undertaking ahead of me. She's a sturdy boat but in need of some TLC. Like all I just want to be out there sailing. When I bought her I conviced myself, (and the wife) I'd learn from this boat working on it as much as sailing. I hope I can do it!!! Stupid question but one in which I'll ask, is it wrong to rename a boat?

Regards,
Anthony

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Buzz Maring
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1774 Posts

Response Posted - 07/19/2005 : 10:09:10

<font color="blue">... Stupid question but one in which I'll ask, is it wrong to rename a boat? - Anthony</font id="blue">

Hi Anthony,

Nope ... you just have to make sure you don't upset the sailing gods

Renaming a boat can be a lot of fun ... check out these links:

[url="http://tanzer.freeservers.com/boat_denaming.htm"]Boat Denaming Ceremony[/url]

[url="http://www.48north.com/mr_offline/denaming.htm"]Boat Denaming Ceremony II[/url]

[url="http://www.c34.org/renaming.html"]Boat Renaming Ceremony[/url]

Have fun!

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