Who would have guessed that a year as a landlubber would pass so quickly. Imagine needed some maintenance. We had an important family wedding in California and my aging parents needed a little help as Mom's descent into the abyss of Alzheimer's disease escalated quickly. We braved the cold northeastern winter and lived a blue water life vicariously through social media postings of our cruising friends.
The heat exchange riser cracked and water filled the bilge during out last weekend on the boat as we brought the grandchildren back to the marina after anchoring out for the night. As we pulled into the slip and secured the lines, I heard the bilge pump doing what it supposed to do. The riser was, of course, a custom made part. After a little research we were able to contact the company that made the original fabrication. The old part was re-welded and a new one crafted.The oil in the bilge and the oil pan would prove more of a challenge. On Imagine most of the engine sits below the cabin sole under the galley sink and cabinets. Before Ed can change the seal the engine has to be lifted. That in turns means that hoses, hot water heater, sink and cabinetry must be removed.
The galley console not fills the starboard settee. Two 4 by 4s cross the cabin and extend through portholes. A third 4 by 4 sits across the first two. Next the engine hoses and fittings must come off before Ed uses a chain hoist to lift the engine. He will use a pallet to rest the engine as he gets down to removing the leaking seal. While Ed is doing the he-man work down at the boat yard, I spend hours searching fabric sites looking for a durable, dirt hiding, easy to sew material to reupholster the well worn cushions for Imagine's main salon and nav station. I assure you that my lifetime affliction of paralysis or analysis is out of remission. AHHHH! I've narrowed it down to about a dozen choices. Maybe a dart board would help?
We've also identified items longer used. The largest item is a Livingston catamaran dinghy in very good condition. It is the park model with extra reinforcement. It was used one summer on Chesapeake and the following season in Bahamas. Its V-hull cuts through chop and it is roomy with a 5'2" beam. It is the driest dinghy we've had with 12 inch free board and 5 inch draft. Made of fiberglass it weighs 160 lbs and has a maximum capacity 700 lbs. It uses 7' oar or up to a 10 hp engine with a 15" shaft. It is a great tender that tows well. We towed it nearly 3,000 miles when our davits broke in a storm. Why are we selling it. We chose an inflatable because we go offshore whenever we can and prefer a dinghy that we can deflate and put on deck. $900 firm.
Also looking for a new home is a bronze left hand prop 16x12x11/8, new condition sat in bilge as spare. $350 or best offer.Also for sale is a bronze 17 inch max folding prop that fits a 11/4 inch shaft. It is good shape. $1000 or best offer.Its spring. Flowering trees and bushes bloom, the sun sparkles like glittering jewels off the water and the song of the sea is calling me. I am so ready to feel the subtle rock of the boat lull me to sleep at night as water laps softly against the hull.
