Finally back in the water!

[rslifkin]

It's a slightly late start to the season this year, but as of Friday, we're finally back in the water! And almost done getting everything up and running with only a few minor issues. Pictures included, of course.

So far, only problems have been a dead electric choke heater on the generator (easy fix, part is on the way) and the choke opening too slowly and not far enough on the starboard engine (still diagnosing the cause, but for now it starts well enough and runs fine with the choke tied wide open). Engines fired right up after 7 months, although one seawater pump needed a little help priming.

Got to test out the new anchor washdown too. Pressure is impressively good.

 

[Alaskan Sea-Duction]

Nice!! Go forth and have fun!!!

 

[rslifkin]

Nice!! Go forth and have fun!!!

That's the plan! After the weekend we've only got a few things left to do and the weather is looking good for next weekend so far.

 

[Comodave]

We were able to launch on May 1st. Still have a couple issues to work on. One big one was a leak into the aft cabin. I did another area with caulking and since yesterday evening we have had 3.5” of rain and so far no leak. I am trying to stay calm but I am very happy right now.

 

[Comodave]

Your washdown looks great!

 

[rslifkin]

Your washdown looks great!

Thanks! I had to set the pressure switch for about 70 psi to get the pump to stop cycling with that nozzle. Pump is a Delavan FB2, so depending on what my exact output pressure is, I should be flowing somewhere around 4.5 - 5 gal/minute at that pressure. With the nozzle pointed straight out about 8 feet above the water, it shot at least 25 - 30 feet (sideways to the wind). Should be plenty to get mud off the anchor (and it better be, considering the pump draws about 25 amps to make that stream of water).