Ready for Sandy

Since we last wrote, the galley has been the primary focus.  Surprised?  The refrigerator was completed:  the countertop and lid openings were framed, gaskets were installed around the lids, and the refrigerant charge was tested and adjusted.  It is more than efficient -- the freezer measured 7°F and the refrigerator measured 22°F.  Since it is a spillover system, all it will take is a little adjusting of the damper and a little more insulation around the divider and she will be ready to chill the wine and beer!

Gaskets around refrigerator lids

Refrigeration installation completed

Mike has been working hard at getting the cupboards back in to the galley.  Many needed to be rebuilt, since the galley configuration was changed.  They've all been installed including the shelf for dishes that divides the salon bunk from the galley.  

Framing the refrigerator for the lids and dish shelf installed

Because new teak was used, the cupboards were stained to match the existing teak.  And, the dinette was sanded and stained and the cabin sole (floor) was only sanded, then both were coated with polyurethane (Bristol) and look as good as new!  We're waiting on some more wood to finish the teak slats behind the stove as well as the fiddles (rails) around the edge of the counter.

Cupboard finished with refrigeration and stove controls

Finished cabin sole

In addition, the radar and chart plotter were connected and appear to be working well.  And, Mike fiberglassed in the lazarette and installed a drain to properly prepare it for use as a propane locker.  It had been open and drained directly to the bilge, which is not safe for a propane spill/leak.  Propane "gas" would sink to the bottom and cause a hazardous condition in the boat.  This way any spills are contained in the lazarette and exit the boat through the drain, keeping it away from the engine and the cabin.

Since hurricane Sandy is going to be hitting us, we decided to have Abake hauled.  We wanted to clean the bottom before heading South, and our depth gauge was giving us some problems with erratic readings.  Since the insurance company pays to have it hauled (for named storms), the timing was good.  The depth transducer needed to be inspected and once hauled was an easy fix -- clean it!

Dirty depth transducer

 Jenny took a week to visit family and friends in the midwest and also to attend a funeral.  With only one "wing" (as a fellow travelling passenger put it), she wasn't much help to Mike.  Considering all the work he did that week, maybe she should have stayed a little longer.