1999x questions

[kmclemore]

Regarding the cushions "puzzle", my wife and I have opted for a nice single sized air mattress for the main bed over the lowered table, just putting standard boat cushions and those simple orange PFD's under it.

Ditto. This has been discussed before (at least twice, in detail) and here's a link to the earlier discussion:

http://macgregorsailors.com/phpBB/viewt ... 035#p28035

It even has a photo of the mattress in place:

[kmclemore]

Suggestion: repack wheel bearings, ASAP. But, first, jack-up the trailer, spin the wheels and listen for any "grinding" sounds. If so, replace the bearings.

Actually, I've found you can't always 'hear' a bad bearing, though admittedly if they're really trashed you can.

I suggest, given you don't know the history of this boat, that you assume the worst and do a complete inspection and re-pack. So... if you're going to inspect & repack the bearings and do a proper job of it, you should remove the inner and outer bearings, along with the inner seal, and wash all of the grease off the bearings and the hub (along with the bearing races) with solvent. Once they are spotlessly clean, inspect the bearing rollers and the bearing races carefully for signs of scoring or deterioration ('flaking' or 'galling' of the surface of the bearing or race). If you see any signs whatsoever, replace the bearings and the races (they need to be driven out of the hub with a drift). Install the new races, pack the bearings with a marine-grade wheel bearing grease, and install a new seal.

Bearings are too cheap to risk having one go south at 55 mph on the highway, so when in doubt, replace 'em.

[ScottCReeve]

It was mentioned about the 3 spots in the bilge that are most likely to collect water. Under the cooler box, battery compartment and rear cushions. I have water collecting in these same locations from the rain. It is not a lot, only a few cups or so accumulates in each area, but I was wondering why these 3 areas are common. Like many other areas we have had an unusual amount of rain so it is not a major problem, just wondering why and the cause of the accumulation in these areas.
Thanks
Scott

[quintamala]

ScottCReeve..
Rain water on is collected mostly on both sides where the gas tanks are allocated.
See the lower inside border: You´ll see there a compound sealant along both compartements.
I removed old sealant recently an replace with new stuff. After aplying new sealant, I painted it (as prevention), with a water isolate product that I use to aply on the roof at home when I detect rain leakages.
The result: Wait a few days untill all water on hidden places evaporates and keep an eye on it just in case the sealant looses properties.

[ScottCReeve]

Thanks for the quick reply. I have sealed all the areas I could see on the deck of the boat but did not even think of looking where the gas tanks are stored for a possible problem. I guess I just assumed that it was one solid molded area. I just bought the boat last fall and really did not have time to investigate all the areas. I have been taking out the old sealent and replacing it as I go. Will let you know when I get a chance to investigate your suggestions.

Much appreciated

Scott

[coolchange]

Thanks for all the information.

I am getting the idea that this boat, the Macgregor, is a never ending work in progress. It comes bare bones and what you do with it is up to the owner..beds, cabinets, electronics and anything else you want to spend $$ on...but so far the projects are all looking pretty reasonable.

Any opinions on depth sounders..through hull (if so where for the transducer?) or stern mount

How big a fuel can can you fit in the standard locker

How long does a can of butane burn?

Anyone want to talk me out of a hand held vhf as primary? ( I tend to only use radio for dock assignments and close range boat to boat...and have yet to need one for emergency but that is always a reason to have one.

(If I get to be too much of a PITA or am crossing board rules let me know ...otherwise I will be tapping the wealth of knowledge.)

[Divecoz]

Thanks for all the information.

I am getting the idea that this boat, the Macgregor, is a never ending work in progress. It comes bare bones and what you do with it is up to the owner..beds, cabinets, electronics and anything else you want to spend $$ on...but so far the projects are all looking pretty reasonable.
YES IT IS : )
Any opinions on depth sounders..through hull (if so where for the transducer?) or stern mount
I have a Garmin GPS Chart Plotter and sounder and have the thru hull mounted about midway under the seating port side..
How big a fuel can can you fit in the standard locker
Sorry I dont know for sure as I have an 05 M but I have read here both twin 12's and or 4 -6's fit. depending on manufacturer..
How long does a can of butane burn?
Ahh till its empty? OK OK I used 4 or 5 over 5 week period .. often cooking dinner and always making coffee every morning..and I always make a full pot .
Anyone want to talk me out of a hand held vhf as primary? ( I tend to only use radio for dock assignments and close range boat to boat...and have yet to need one for emergency but that is always a reason to have one.
Your south of Portland maybe Salem(?) where are you sailing? a Lake or the Ocean? On most Lakes and Rivers your hand held should be fine and your cell phone will work in most cases too. I have both hand held and mounted and a cell phone..


(If Iget to be too much of a PITA or am crossing board rules let me know ...otherwise I will be tapping the wealth of knowledge.)
Ask away...worse case is you'll get directed to previous threads and posts..