Monday 12 November 2007

Bits n Pieces and the 'Bay...

Spent some time doing those annoying little things recently. Unlike the last update, this time there's been a fair amount of effort - but nothing much to show for it. This included strengthening the side 'lockers' by backing them with marine ply, rummaging around in the bilges to fit a new drain plug and pulling apart the old Ultraflex helm unit. This was found kicking around in the bottom of the boat when I bought it and was in need of a good clean up. The unit was stripped down, cleaned out and re-packed with grease. Sadly, the cable was not in such good shape and was not worth trying to rescue. Luckily, eBay came to the rescue and an exact replacement was found in great, unused, condition from the National A1 Marine eBay shop - a bargain - and Jon was a good guy to deal with. The helm unit was duly fitted - so another job out of the way. The steering wheel was another eBay find and will fit in well with the revised colour scheme of White, Teak& Holly, Turquoise and Grey - think Riva!

Moving astern... I couldn't resist the polished finish stainless bilge outlet (found you know where) - overkill maybe, but I think it looks so much better than the standard white plastic offering. One thing I am still seeking inspiration for is how to pick out the raised 'Broom' logo.

I originally thought this would have been a separate item but on my Saturn it is moulded into the hull. If anybody has any ideas I'd be pleased to hear them but I think it's going to be down to a sharp eye and a steady hand...

The weather has put paid to any painting jobs at the moment, but there is still plenty to do and many more bits and pieces to unearth. I'll finish this post with an appeal to any Broom owners out there to please get in touch and to John who left a comment - please let me know how to contact you so we can compare notes.