Summer 2011

She's coming back to life!

I've had many requests by interested folks to see photos of my new six-meter project, so I thought I would put them online for all to see. Thanks for checking it out!

Restoration is probably not the right word to use in describing what I am doing to the boat. While she does need a couple of major repairs, generally speaking the boat is in very good condition for a 75 year old vessel.

The good news is that as I've started digging into the repairs, I haven't found any horrible surprises - nothing that I didn't expect. I feel that I am up to the task of completing the required work and getting her in the water by the middle of May. (I can hear you laughing - knock it off)

I'm going to restore the underwater profile to the original configuration, with the rudder being attached to the aft edge of the keel, which will return her to "classic" status.

I do need to thank some people who have lent a great deal of help and support. First is my Dad, who is a top-notch assistant because he has a great deal of knowledge and skill (much more than me) in just about every area needed to complete this project.

I especially want to thank some of the guys from the Port Huron Fleet (Jim, Mark, and Phil.) They got me hooked on the six meter by taking me out for some racing on Ondine, then spent over 12 hours moving the boat from Richmond, MI to Troy, MI on a Saturday afternnoon. Their commitment to the six meter fleet is very apparent. Also, special thanks to Vinnia's previous owner Bud Kirk.

Also, Joel Kar (thanks for the traveler), Sean Murphy, and Rob Hasting. Most importantly my family, Heather and Jack, who have been very supportive and tolerant of my boat habits.

Keep checking back for updates.

The keelson, circled in red, connects the wooden hull to the lead keel, and this one is bad. The repair is pretty straight-forward. Basically, disconnect all the supports inside the boat (see "Parts!" photo below,) take the nuts off the keel bolts, do a little cutting to free the wood from the bedding compound, and we're ready. Then support the lead keel from tipping, and lift he wooden hull from the keel. Put the new one in place and and put it all back together! Notice some black framing behind the boat with bottle jacks underneath, and a wooded 6x6 frame over the boat to assist in lifting.

I should be ready make this repair by mid-January/2010.