12.22.2012

diesel tanks for the cat.

After thorough consideration, I decided not to make my diesel tanks out of cardboard rather I used it to make sure that the intended shapes would fit where I wanted them to fit.    All I want for Christmas is some 3/32 aluminum TIG welding rods and some 6000 series aluminum sheet for my diesel tanks........


12.21.2012

simple paint roller trick

Over the course of this build, I think I may have saved hundreds of dollars simply spinning out my paint roller cores and loosening them up for the next session.  As long as you remember to pull the roller off when the epoxy is still uncured, I've found that if you let the roller handle and core cure, all you have to do is chuck them into something that will give them a good spin ( enough to sort of wear the previously used epoxy away from the spindle) This loosens up the roller enough to reuse it indefinitely........every few dollars helps.   Nice to have a little coffee money after spending a thousand more dollars for another batch of epoxy.



   

12.19.2012

Thinking about a nav station

I've chosen to include dual function seating for a small nav station such that I can use the end of the settee when performing nav tasks or messing around with the SSB.  In this photo, you can see a retro, but fully functional, ICOM m702 ssb with tan old school hand set.  I may or may not configure my electrical panel in this location as I am still scratching my head and deciding how life on the boat will need to be.

The table seen here with the Cruising World mag on it is hinged to fold flat against the galley island when not in use. This location is in the main cabin along the back side of the mast bulkhead near the vessel CG where minimum pitching and rolling should occur.




Interior composite panels

In the previous post, I showed a mock up in cardboard,  After a little bench epoxy work, I created composite panels and epoxy bonded them in place.  I've yet to round off the corners and tape the edges but this particular structure will serve as a locker for foul wether gear as well as a protective covering for the starboard side cable steering mechanism.  A large access hatch will be cut in the face so that full and easy access can be gained to all steering components.