Flybridge Refit

 This weekend we finally turned the corner. Done removing things and sanding things, and washing things, and etc etc etc. It has been a long 2 weeks! yesterday I applied the fairing compound to the seams (under teak trim) and where we are filling and sealing mounting holes.

All the sanded trim in a pile, ready for new varnish

Teak doors ready for varnish

Rear door hatch cover, ready for varnish

After 2nd coat of Bristol Finish, 2-part urethane varnish.

I finished the day with 7 coats on the cover, this is actually the under side of the cover, the topside will be coated with the same thing we are coating the deck with. I am HOPING to be done with the paint and coatings in about 2 weeks, then on to re-assemble everything, and move on to re-installing the mast and making it's new cradle!

A/C Refit

Toscana's main salon A/C system has reached the end of it's service life. The system being 40 years old, and using R-12 refrigerant makes repair impossible, and an entire re-fit of new compressor/condenser unit and new air handler unit. After 3 weeks of roadblocks with parts and pieces and so on, I got the new system fully installed and charged. While there hasn't been a need for A/C the last week or so, I have used it several times for heat in the mornings!

Some cost notes... Last year I replaced the 12k self contained drop in unit in the master stateroom with a 16k Marinaire. With shipping that was about $2,200 all in. Charged up, ready to go. This split unit, also 16k capacity, has topped $5,800 for parts and materials. In my case there was no practical way to use an all-in-one unit here. I'm very glad the unit left to replace is a self-contained unit like the master!

We have also decided on a complete restore on the flybridge deck. What that means is not only will the deck be renewed, we are also doing all the brightwork, and the FB interior in Awlgrip white. This is the paint that will be used for the outer part of the hull and house sides next year, above the waterline. 

Amid this spring refit, we hosted my aunt Janelle and her husband Van. Hopefully they bring Grandpa next time, and come when she is in shape for a little cruising!