Another issue I need to deal with is bilge pumps. I'm a firm believer in having MANY ways to get water out of the boat. WW has an electric bilge pump and a manual "whale" pump at the aft end of the cockpit. Neither work. The previous owner gave me this tidbit when last we spoke. He said the electric pump that is in there is new but didn't have the power to get water out... He said the manual pump just didn't work at all.

So my project list from when I first bought the boat has completely changed save for a few items.

Bottom paint
Bulkhead/knees/Chainplate reinforcement
Bilge Pumps - both to be repaired or replaced
Check/Replace all hoses/clamps
Find and seal leak in or around mast step
Get batteries tested and charged
Repair some broken cabin lights
Replace 1970 interior cushions
Replace water lines
Hook up sink and toilet
Maybe go sailing?

At least bulge pumps and hose are reasonably priced compared to most boat stuff. Last year I replaced the kind that turns itself on every 15 min to check if there is water with the kind that has the float switch. $25 I think. I wish there was one on the market that was a little shorter. Seems like 4.25" is the min and it sticks up through the floor about .5".

For boat cushions I really recommend that place just off beecher on Allis street called homestyle.

Chris, are you talking about you boat or mine?? Everything you mention pretty much describes my situation as well.

The small electric that came w/ ours had no float switch so I have replaced it but haven't really installed it, just tossed it down there. And the manual worked for 4 or 5 pump outs and died. Still shopping for a replacement.

Don Casey in This Old Boat shows a dual electric pump set up as well as thoughts on manual pumps. Also some great ideas for sizing/installing pumps no matter what route you go. I don't mean to preach this book but so far it has covered every issue I have encountered. Last night I read how to splice wire to rope and had I some halyard rope would have given it a go.

Speaking of cushions, April and I went looking for tile at a local flooring/furniture store having a closing sale the other day. She was really liking the plush recliners till I mentioned that for the same money we could have new boat cushions. She was headed out of the store in a flash.

J. F. Gone wrote:
Speaking of cushions, April and I went looking for tile at a local flooring/furniture store having a closing sale the other day. She was really liking the plush recliners till I mentioned that for the same money we could have new boat cushions. She was headed out of the store in a flash.
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You certainly have a "KEEPER" there!!!!

PilotAlso wrote:
You certainly have a "KEEPER" there!!!!

Yes, definitely!! I consider myself very lucky indeed.