MacGregorSailors.com

'88 Mac26D

I noticed that MacGregor's manual states you should treat your water ballast every so often with chlorine tabs if you plan to leave the ballast full for an extended period. Can anyone elaborate on this? How often? And, if I use a granulated chlorine instead, how much? I'm in fresh water.

And while we're on the topic of H2O, I was out on the water yesterday when a rain storm snuck up on me. Great wind but unfortunately it was one of those afternoon storms, so it was time for me to head in shortly after it blew over. I had to put the sails up wet - mainsail and furler. I was planning on trying to get out there this week, wind or no wind, just to raise the sails and let them air out. Is there any major cause for concern? Has anyone had an issue with mildew or mold?

As I recall the new manuals do not say that. Everything will just die due to lack of air and sun.

Wet sails, yes dry them out as soon as you can. Leave them up for a while. If there is any black spots, clean with water and soft brush (tooth brush?). That should handle it. The sun should kill any growth and after drying, a little water and brush will remove the black or green stuff left behind. I used to take mine to the back yard to clean and dry.

I add one gallon of inexpensive household bleach at the beginning of the season and that works great. And if it works with Mississippi River water, it will work anywhere. It's cheap and simple.