The "crazy" part of my idea is that it IS a gasoline powered engine and gasoline below decks is dangerous. The motor is dry as a bone and has been for 5 years. I suppose there could be some fumes in it. I wouldn't fuel it up until deploying it. So it would be dry while inside the boat. And...

The self inflating PFD I have will right an unconscious person to face up position. I tried it once to see if it really works. It cost me $25 for a new set of compressed air cylinder and a new dissolving ring, but it was worth it for the confidence it gave me. Good idea. I have a refill kit. Maybe ...

Although not as ideal as a full on PFD, self inflating PFDs are a great innovation. A person can move about and still be relatively comfortable and still have that level of safety.

If I were preparing to abandon ship, I'd still go for a real PFD.

My 2.5 hasn't had fuel in it for over 5 years. Sitting in my garage dry as a bone.
The fuel vapor on boats and in the cabin thing is my biggest concern. I would make sure it's perfectly dry before ever bringing it down below.

Yes, gasoline vapors go boom and it's not pretty.

I may research what kind of motor mounts would work. The :macm: rudders are kind of in the way of everything. I'm really thinking this might be a good idea to have a backup. Yesterday, we were motoring when the motor stopped suddenly. Turned out to be the fuel line somehow disconnected from the moto...

I have had a Suzuki 2.5 outboard for my dinghy in my garage for 5 years. It has no gas in it and it's a 4-stroke, so it does have oil. I don't want to mount the thing on my transom because it would be in the way. My idea is to install a motor mount and store the motor below deck someplace for emerge...

I discovered that Styrofoam is no longer a USCG approved floatation for marine use. Interesting. Perhaps because it can become saturated. My hot tub cover (styrofoam) got waterlogged and was super heavy and only 4 years old. I guess the stuff will eventually absorb moisture. Sounds like that's what...

(actually the entire marina looks neglected...lol) AD It sure does! Looks apocalyptic. Dock lines have mildew on them. Docks are sagging. The boat next to it is all in disarray. ALL the boats have some mildew streaks. It's kind of disturbing to see so much neglect, as if nobody has been there for y...

The boat looks neglected. Same for the one next to it. Fortunately, most of that junk will easily clean up. The sails look dirty too and they might take more to clean. This could make for good negotiating. Keep in mind, this is a powersailer and the motor is a big part of the boat and a major expens...

I'm not familiar with the 22. Is the rudder totally retractable? If so, I would not paint it.

If it stays wet in a slip, I would paint it with whatever bottom paint you have on the bottom.

I think MOST Macgregor boats had sub standard wiring. Lamp cord etc. And few actual circuits to begin with. Roger sold bare boats that owners could customize. With your skills, this will be a walk in the park. Aviation specs are probably tougher than marine. I bought Nigel Calder's book and found it...

My helm seat hinge finally broke completely off. It's been wobbly and one of the welds was broken. Now it came completely apart. Fortunately, years ago when I first noticed it was failing I ordered a new one from BWY. Because there is no access to the bolts under, they provide a plug so you can dril...

Stainless steel cap sounds nice. The 26M has this cheap plastic thingy that is very fragile. My anchor light is mounted on it, but I fear it can break off easily.

What about dissimilar metals? Is that an issue? Probably not as there are other SS hardware on the mast.

What are winches? Just kidding.

I've NEVER used my winches. I suppose covering them is wise. They are expensive to repair.

Russ, beautiful waters around Camano Island, but yes going to start out with lake Steven's. Also already signed up for 3 day sailing class that starts June 28th out of Shilshoal Marina in Ballard . Each day is short time in classroom, and the rest of the day on the waters of puget sound sailing. Si...