Fall 2025 - winter 2026 projects

Battery renewal: I replaced 2 8D house batteries and 1 4D engine starting battery. I chose Lifeline batteries from Fisheries Supply (on sale) to replace the existing Eagle River batteries which seemed to have limited availability.

The boat seems to have been built around the batteries as they were not particularly easy to remove/replace from under the side deck, outside of both engines. It seemed it may almost be easier to remove the engines vs wriggling the batts out using lifting and pulling with a block and tackle. Fortunately, the process went easier than expected, still difficult given the 150lb weight of each battery. The gods of classic boat maintenance took pity on me for that project. Thanks!

Fire suppression system upgrade: Update system from an older CO2 (120lb cylinder when full) to a 45lb modern extinguisher. Much like the batteries, the large, heavy CO2 cylinder is located outboard of the stbd engine. Removing it began after the stbd batteries were out. I discharged the remaining CO2 and removed the discharge valve which reduced the tank weight a little. Installing the new system included building a wooden bracket to hold the extinguisher securely in place in roughly the same location as the old C)2 tank.

Fitting re-bed: Matthews used a SS tube and custom fittings to drain the cabin top waterways. Lately I noticed the lower fitting needs re-bedding to prevent water from leaking out on the cockpit side vs exiting through the drain hole onto the side deck.

If after all the above is completed there’s some winter left, I have planned several varnishing projects to be done at home unless the PNW has a early and warmer spring than usual.