svSugarMagnolia
New Member
Hey everyone,
My name’s Finn, I’m new to sailing and the forum. I’ve been fascinated with sailing since a trip to SeaBase with my scout troop two years ago. I recently saw a Facebook Marketplace post for a sailfish in my area, it was an older widow selling her husband's neglected boat, so I bought it for $60. It’s got a brand new sail, but is missing the rudder and daggerboard, as well as various cleats and lines and such. I figured it’d be a good project for Christmas break and spring. I’ve got a couple of questions for anyone familiar with Sailfishes.
As it’s the MK-II, it’s the 14 foot model, and has the same sail size as the Sunfish. Is the tiller and the daggerboard the same? I was hoping to build them myself, and I think I have some good draw ups, but does anyone out there have advice on how to do this, or if I should just buy the parts?
The paint on the hull and deck is old, as it has sat under a porch for 10 years. I’ve read that you need to be extra careful while sanding down fiberglass and paint. Do I need to sand the paint completely down before repainting, or do I just need to sand down the chipped areas? I’m hoping to not have to spend 6 hours with a little electric sander, but I can if I have to.
Also, can anyone tell me what’s up with the two holes on the deck? I’ve never seen them in pictures of sailfishes. The screw caps are missing, so I can’t plug them. It looks like someone stuffed some foam and styrofoam down there. Should I try and plug these, or does anyone know where I can find caps that are waterproof and will fit? It could be nice to have a bit of internal storage.
Sorry for the storm of questions, but I’m excited to get on the water. Here in Middle GA we don’t have many places to sail, but I’m considering Lake Sinclair/ Lake Juliette. Any advice is appreciated as well. I’ve looked for a hull ID number, but I can’t find one. Can anyone tell from this picture, or can tell me where to find it?
Thanks for your help,
Finn