Recent content by Dale Tanski

New drain plug assemblies typically require a 1" diameter hole. Use a 1" hole saw to drill the old plug out and make the hole for the new plug all at the same time. The hole saw will cut the new hole outside of the existing plug body.

You are correct that over time "new" gelcoat may match over time. People that are good at repairing gelcoat have this dilemma all the time. Does one match todays color or anticipate the color change in "new" gelcoat over the next three or so years. The dilemma being the customer will say you...

Only the end user could possibly mix gelcoat to match a gelcoat that is that old. As cured gelcoat ages it changes color. In fact one side of the boat will be a different color than the other side in most cases. If you want a color match pick something close to start with and tint...

If the don't it's because they suck. They are too low to walk comfortably while grabbing the bow handle. The are difficult to install alone. A dolly is the way to go but expensive.

It is odd to select a sailboat by a weight class, kind of like buying a house because of the drapes. Off hand I could name 50 that meet your weight limit. More importantly... 1) What is your level of sailing experience? 2) What is your age group (physical limitations)? 3) Where will you...

Yes, 75 sqft. The Phantom sails uses pockets sewn into the edge to slip onto the booms and the Sunfish uses the sail clips through the edge grommets.

Anytime you do an external repair you must remove the gelcoat (exterior color material). In a impact damage situation the gel coat often hides the full extent of the damage. Repairs typically do not stick to cured gelcoat especially epoxy. I prefer epoxy repairs vs. polyester resin repair. Your...

Deck or hull core?

Longer trailer tongue = the easier to back up. Longer distance from the ball to the axle is better. Heavier the boat = the more comfortable the ride, more stable. Tongue hinge - install a trailer tongue hinge and it will probably be shorter than the Capri. The P dimension on the Compact 16 is...

Can't you register it homemade?

If I were you I would find a local sailing organization that that will take you out and actually sail. I would not spend time or money on something you may not like. Forget about getting a boat and focus on getting on a boat. Take an on the water sailing course with someone that knows what...

I believe that a Sunfish mast is identical. Booms as well. The rudder is not.

Looks like a Harken #208 drum. If so the hole in the top of the drum is there to tie the furling line to the drum body. You stick the furling line up through and tie a stopper knot and then wind the furling line around the drum inside of the outer finger cage. It would appear that someone...

Where does that "cord" start at? Top of the sail? The furling line in the 2nd pictures looks fine. Is there a top swivel? You are not using a halyard are you? The jib has a wire in the luff correct?

If you pay taxes on property, you do not own it you are only renting/leasing it from the government. If you doubt that try and sell property that has back taxes, the government will not allow you to do so as they hold the deed, literally. When you register your car you hand them the receipt...