33. Three Hundred Nautical Miles on a FREE BOAT! - DIY Sailing
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- Опубликовано: 27 авг 2024
- The free sailboat we obtained was in Titusville, FL and we needed to move it as close to home as possible to begin working on it. We had some time off because of Thanksgiving break so we decided to get the boat as ready as possible and set off on the 4-5 day trip through the Intracoastal Waterway, Okeechobee Waterway, and Gulf of Mexico.
The diesel engine decided to die half-way through the trip, causing us have to leave the boat in Ft. Myers for a week while it was repaired. Ryan and Kelsey from Abandon Comfort joined us for this last leg of the trip.
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Link to Abandon Comfort:
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Learning the Lines is a channel about us, an average couple in our 20's, with big dreams to be sailing the world by the time we're in our 30's. We're not afraid to jump into anything, put in the work, and learn as we go. For this reason our channel is very DIY focused, with the goal to show anyone watching that a lot is possible if you're not afraid to make some mistakes along the way.
Please leave a like and comment if you've enjoyed the video, and subscribe if you haven't already.
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At 9:00, I do not believe THIS is a failed trip ! You have a boat that Floats. And a bed and bathroom and a Tow coming. A failed trip is where you have to swim ! Looks like a GREAT trip to me.
I am always impressed by just how expensive these free sailboats are.
yes being great full when learning is a good thing :)
I was pleased to hear that you had now got a boat; and at a reasonable price, congratulations, a 300 mile maiden voyage with only one problem, Wow!
getting a free boat with a working motor is way more than you can ask for . Expect the boat to break a lot and be ready for that. This is a great learning tool cuz your going to need to fix everything.
I got a free powerboat with a great working engine, and full service records. Granted, I had to pull the motor, replace the transom, stringers, and install new seats in her. (Seats still pending). It was a lot of work, but I got a great running boat for a total investment of a few weekends of elbow grease, and about $400 in materials. Now the seats I want to order will tack on another $1000, but it's still a great deal. Also included the twin axle trailer which is in near perfect condition.
Well done!
I was the guy that told you to “run away” from the 52’ Irwin, even if the owner gave it to you for free and handed you a check for $25,000. This Endeavor is a great start to the joys of boat ownership.
A truism I authored many years ago:
“The cheapest part of owning a boat is buying it “
I’ve shared this truism with countless boat brokers while shopping for my own, and they always look puzzled at first while they process the statement, and then usually burst into laughter and say “That is so true!”
Certainly a truth of boat ownership. Thanks for watching! -Randi
What a great young couple. Oh to be young again! Best of luck and enjoy the life you chose.
Nice Abandon Comfort Shirt! I'm rewatching my favorite sailing channels! SV Freebie AWESOME!
Thank you! Hope we make your list of favorites. ;)
Three things that I would do; 1; install a"Y" valve on your raw water intake so your diesel auxiliary can act as a emergency bilge pump, 2nd; make sure all alarms are working on the diesel especially the OVERHEAT ALARM, NOT JUST A GUAGE!!!!!!!!!! 3rd.; install a "High Water Alarm" in your bilge so it sounds before your engine is flooded.
Fair Winds and Following Seas,
Thanks for the advice! We will look into those options.
Had a somewhat similar experience having to be towed 16nm into Charlevoix, Michigan after our engine quit unexpectedly about three weeks ago. I stupidly didn't have a spare seawater cooling pump belt aboard, or it would have been a simple fix. Towboat US was great. Our bill would have been about $1,800, but a salesman at West Marine talked me into getting the unlimited towing membership. Best money I ever spent. We may never break down again, but I will never be without Boat US membership.
I think air draft would nerve me out too!
A break down is just an extra leg of an adventure. Love the dog. If I ever have the opportunity to get a boat my two big dogs will be with me too.
I got CTow insurance because of this video (similar service, but in Canada). I also got my hands on a free boat which also took about a week to get to her new home. I didn't end up breaking down, but I did find myself in a hairy spot. The CTow folks were able to put me in touch with a local captain (at about 9pm on new years eve) who was kind enough to walk me through my issue.
You have had very good luck, and I congratulate you. I spent myself a few days solo on the water,in 2013, 63 days, when I sailed from Marathon to Chipiona, Spain, trough Horta in the Azores. Keep on the good work and don't dismay. Cheers,John.
That sounds like quite the adventure! Thanks for watching.
WOW Titusville Florida is my Home town. And St. Petersburg is my playground. Have fun guys
Thanks! Titusville was nice and the marina was great. We do love St. Pete though.
You show me a boat that hasn't broken down and I will show you one that will. Take care and have fun.
Haha I like that saying. It is probably accurate as well. Thanks for watching! -Randi
Older diesel engines are usually very, very simple when it comes to wiring. The wire going to the fuel pump is there to shut the fuel supply off, thus basically "starving" the engine of fuel in order to make it stop. Meaning that as long as that wire gets a voltage (12 or 24V depending on your setup) the engine will keep on running. The most important bits to look after on the engine (apart from the oil/filter and fuel lines/filter is the alternator. Make sure all the connectors are clean and non-corroded, and same with the main switches and battery connectors. If there is green corrosion buildup(I have no clue what that gunk is called in English, sorry) on any connectors, try washing it off with a little hot water, then protect the connectors with some battery terminal grease. Any wires you have that are corroded, try to either cut the corroded bits off until you find clean, fresh copper, or replace the wire in its entirety. I would recommend getting a book called "Boatowner's Mechanical and Electrical Manual". It is an excellent source of tips, tricks and examples.
I don't know how their particular engine is set up, but some diesel engines will have a fuel shutoff solenoid to turn off the engine. Engine pump is typically mechanical with probably an electric supply pump from tank. Solenoid works as you describe, turning off power to solenoid interrupts fuel and kills engine. We had one (in a truck, not a boat) that would work fine when cold, but when hot, would not operate so engine wouldn't start until it cooled again, although malletizing it was also effective until we could get it replaced. If your engine uses a shutoff solenoid that is a good spare to have.
Solenoid was the word I could not think of. Some times it sucks to be a non-native English speaker :) The shutoff solenoid is present on most semi-modern diesels, though I know Mercedes used mechanical shutoff far in to the nineties.
Alf Torp What Alf said.
Thanks for this solid feedback. Definitely a lot to think about. Before we do some long term cruising I'll most likely be replacing all of the engine electrical if it seems corroded. Thanks for watching!
If the old parts are working, definitely keep them for spares. Probably a better and cheaper thing you can do right away is clean all of the connections, and inspect the terminals and wires for damage and corrosion. As Alf said, most diesels are relatively simple, and there are only a few things that will make one quit outright like that; also a lot of fuel problems are actually electrical. A basic multimeter or even a simple test light to check for voltage might help you a lot in pinpointing similar issues in the future. Also get some Corrosion Block spray to protect your wiring connections as you clean them.
OMG, you got a 32' Endeavor with diesel and roller furling main for free? Hell of a deal.
Ed Wiser
That’s what I am thinking!
enjoyed i will be looking
I got my 25.5 hunter Sailboat for like $1,800 ,came with nice 9.9 outboard and lots of sails.
It took 2 days to scrub the bird poo off it lol. It had been sitting on a lift a very long time.
It came with most everything I needed as the guy who owned it had plans to restore it and sail it around places -maybe some overnight trips & weekends.
He just gave up ....
So there are good deals out there- I never saw one like yours lol.
You got the deal of a lifetime .
I have been living on my sailboat now for about a year and a half.
made lots of videos of the fix up and many fishing videos too.
Its awesome people.....
I love it.
I just found this channel and subscribed to it - hope to some day see you on the water
Sounds like you got a pretty great deal yourself! Awesome that the boat came with so much for you. You're living the life. Hopefully we will be living on our boat in the near future. Hope to see you out on the water one day!
It really doesn't matter at all what the "Experts" all say! It's what you 2 want. I've seen vessels that appeared to be worthless turned into treasures. All it takes is hard work and imagination. If the hull is sound and you want the project..........Go For It !!!!!!
Forgot to add that anyone starting out with this kind of ambition needs to watch Distant Shores on their TV and You Tube channels. Paul and Sheryl Shard are Canadians who have been sailing the world and producing a fantastic series of film about their travels and teaching much of what you'll need to learn about sailing technique, navigation, boat maintenance and survival at sea living aboard your own boat. They just upgraded to a brand new Southerly 480 financed by their productions and sponsors. Learning how to pay for your kit and voyages is key. Tim
Glad to hear it was just a corroded terminal. Add clean all terminals to your to-do list! Great video!
Definitely on our to-do list! Thanks for watching! -Randi
First thing I did on my boat was remove the fuel tank and clean it . Worth it . Almost certainly a fuel issue. Also in the locks if you use shovel handles you can hold the boat off the slimy walls . Available at any hardware store .
Good tips, thanks! We have talked about cleaning the fuel tanks. We will most likely be doing this in the near future. -Randi
Great seeing you on La Vagabonde this morning from the show!
Nice Job guys! A pretty nice boat! I was amazed the engine is running.... did NOT see that coming!
Thanks! Took a look at your channel after you commented and it looks interesting. I like your new Bruce Roberts steel boat! I'll have to watch some more of your episodes when I get the chance.
Cool! Thanks for sharing your experience. You will look back on this as one of the coolest experiences of your lives. Good thing you have video. Your kids would never believe you did it.
Not that bad a cruise. Glad the engine got fixed cheap. I'm still stuck in Titusville. We've had engine troubles, now V-drive troubles. Nothing but problems out of this dock queen I bought. Its the prettiest shiny turd you ever saw. Its a real head turner at the dock but cant leave the dock. Well, we tried 3 times so far. See, you guys are doing a lot better than me.
I'm sorry to hear that! Hopefully you'll get her running soon. Will you stay in Titusville or are you traveling?
We own a house in SC. I'm not giving up my dirt home for a unreliable boat. We work at nuclear plants during shut downs and then cruise a little , then go home for a while. We just sold a 43' Hatteras which was awesome but we wanted to go to the Carib. and not in a Hatteras. As soon as the gear box gets rebuilt and I buy a new shaft then I'll go back down there and install it. Every since we bought this boat its been nothing but trouble. maybe one day I'll get the mechanical stuff fixed. There's no problem that cant be solved by throwing money at it and I've been spending a bunch.
Hopefully this last throw of money will get things worked out. Lol. I'm sure you don't want to keep throwing money at it without results. At least you'll have looked over the systems thoroughly with all of these fixes so that you can be confident in your travels to the Caribbean. Best wishes on getting your boat up and running reliably. -Randi
You could also (if I were going to the moon) take the solenoid off and don't worry about stopping the motor , plug the hole, and when I want to kill it, turn off the fuel or open a line and break the vacuum to the injector.It will stop. Or choke off the air.
Came here from Abandon Comfort, just finished binging from the beginning. The trip was not a complete failure, you learned knew skills and lessons. Looking forward to your future videos and DIY videos :)
Thanks so much! We love hearing when people say they've binged. It's crazy to think our channel is binge-worthy :)
Mechanical injected diesels like yours are very simple and reliable. Keep learning and become self reliant...
We're getting better and better.
Learning the Lines keep a additive in fuel to add lubrication for the injection pump. Cen-Pe-Co diesel max. Also watch for algae growth and water in fuel.
Best boat name ever! Good luck Kids. Things going wrong is great content
Thank you! The name was Jordan's idea. -Randi
When you buy a boat or get one for free, you take a chance. I think you did great! I bought a 38' sportfish from out of state about 10 years ago and picked it up on of all days Thanksgiving. I paid for a thorough in/out of water survey and nothing of significance was found. We left the marina out on Cape Cod with an egg shell thickness of ice on the water. Idling out and loading coordinates into the GPS we finally cleared the channel and I proceeded to open up the throttles a little. Almost immediately both engine overheat alarms sounded and I shut down both engines. We opened the engine compartment and couldn't find any visiable problems, waited for the engines to cool and tried a re-start. One engine would not re-start and one engine did. So we proceeded on one engine at basically idle speed to the Connecticut River all night long. Once at my homeport marine my mechanic opened up the manifolds and discovered that they were thoroughly clogged and rusted basically shut. My survey stated that the engines were run at idle, 1500, 2000, 2500 and 3200 rpm's for 15-20 minutes at each zone with reccorded oil temps and pressure and water temps and all was normal. It would have been impossible for this to happen. Come to find out the surveyer took me for a ride and since I was out of state it was almost impossible to pursue him legally. I called the licensing authority and they basically said as long as he paid his dues they couldn't do anything to him or about the situation. I wasted 1700 dollars on a full survey. So everything in life is hit or miss. I still think you did good. The owner obviously tried to trick me your owner did not. That would have been something almost impossible to find I thiink. You did great, you didn't panick, did your best to make the best out of a bad situation, kept a smile on your face and were as prepared as possible. (in that you had towing insurance) Good job. I'm sure you'll get a lot of enjoyment out of this new boat. I also subscribe to "Abandon Comfort" another great site! Thanks for your video and next tie instead of telling us your jumping in to cool off, video it! :) Happy New Year and good luck with the "Freebie"!
Thanks for the input! I am sorry to hear about your survey experience. It is unfortunate that there are individuals out there who would so intentionally mislead you. I hope that the sportfish has since brought you some more enjoyment. We do need to be a little better about keeping the cameras on for more of the things we do. That will have to be our new year's resolution. Lol. I can't remember if Ryan filmed when the rest of us got in the water. There's a chance he did and it will be in their next episode. Happy New Year to you too! Thanks for watching. -Randi
Randi, Unfortunately I suffered a stroke about a year after I bought the boat which is about how much time it took me to remove and rebuild the two engines and complete a couple other projects on the boat. I always thought I would return to work, but was never able to. So I ended up loosing the 38' Egg Harbor just as she was ready to do some serious fishing on her. I haven't fished since. I do hope to see you guys catch a few in future episodes though! I look forward to living through your adventures so please keep the dream alive for all of us!!! Happy New Year!
Also, not a failed trip, it all adds up to learning and being better sailors. You MUST develop the ability to think outside the box when it comes to repairs and self-sufficiency.
Thanks for the input! In the moment we were having a bit of a pity party, but we definitely did learn and gain experience.
From the great lakes. We ⛵ fresh. I had night mares for years after locking as a child.
One of my older sailboats had a fuel problem, I’m no mechanic but advice was to eliminate issues. Eg, remove line from fuel tank and use a small jerry can, then from filter, pump etc. In my case it was a tarry substance on screen of fuel tank drop tube. It’s a pia bleeding ejectors each step but fortunately with electric fuel pump engine doesn’t have to run. Obviously if you don’t hear tick tick from fuel pump you know the problem. It’s also a learning process which is good for any boat owner cuz shit happen. Good luck
At least the wheel stayed on! Thanks for posting guys.
Haha that would have been very unlucky. Would have had to tested that emergency tiller. -Randi
😍 loved watching your videos and adventures. Good luck lovely people xxx
I got a free 1978 catalina 27.. im the 2nd owner. The original owner passed away and his daughter was liquidating his estate. She judt wanted it gone. It was in his back yard on stands,so i got the stands, along with all the original manuals and documentation from 1978. Needs some minor tlc but was last in water 2 years ago.
It's like watching a marvel crossover with Ryan and kelsy There. I also subscribe to them too, keep up the good work you guys xxxx
Lol we kept talking about it as a crossover show too! Thanks watching! -Randi
Hallo you two😊
I think that a day like you had was a typical 'learning from experience' day!
It was a shitty experience when the engine 'gave up' in the situation that you were in, but the boat didn't really let you down!
She stopped in a sort of 'reasonable position', i.e not in danger😊
She's gorgeous, and just needs a bit of TLC☺
A boat for nothing?
Amazing 😀
All love, Claire and the 'sofa crew' (2 Goldies and 3 cats😊),
Berlin, Germany 😊 😙 😙
Hello! Definitely a learning experience! We will be sure to check our terminals and grease them to prevent future events like this. We were very lucky to be in such a good position. Looking forward to getting her nice and spiffy with a little TLC.
Graduations on your new sailboat wishing you the best experiences wherever your travels will take you.
Thank you!
Congratulations!!! Dunedin neighbor here, warm wishes and best of luck!
Thank you! Dunedin is beautiful.
congrats on the boat. be careful have fun.
Thank you and thanks for watching! -Randi
Great update. A bit different than out here on the west coast, so it's good to see how you guys sail there.
Thanks for watching! :) Randi
Great video guys! Yea that definitely looked like a Bush Gardens ride. Nice to see you got the engine up and running. What a great trip:)
Thanks for watching! Hope you guys are enjoying your adventures as well.
Brilliant video, thanks. If you worry about mast clearance as i do, fit a cheap video camera to the very top of the mast and an equally cheap monitor in the cockpit then you have a direct line view of the obstacle, and some great video if it takes the top of the mast off.
Haha. That would be some interesting footage for sure! I just never want it to be our footage. Lol. It is definitely a good idea for viewing height obstacles, though. Thanks for the tip and for watching! -Randi
The addition of the map was a nice feature.
Thanks! I can't take credit for that one, but I will let Jordan know. :) - Randi
Hi from Bristol in the UK. This is great. Found your video by accident a few days off New Years 2019, so you've been at it for a year by now. Hopefuly still en-route for your goal to sail round the world. If that is the case, I appreciate you will have a bit more experience and maybe a proper channel by now so I will try to find where you bare at. I sailed twice out from the UK, through Panama to Australia and back through Suez in 1966/67 when I was 20, working on a passenger ship taking migrants to Australia. I ended up emigrating myself and stayed 6 years in Western Australia, working in mining camps as a carpenter, as a radio DJ and in retail as a buyer in a menswear store, amongst other things. I got the sailing bug whilst working for Bond Corporation, when Alan Bond won the America Cup back in the day. Now 70 and a qualified Yacht Master Ocean, having sailed on most of the world's seas. Don't regret a moment getting the adventure bug early. Good luck and fair winds. Tim
Bummer the problems but you all handled it good, like the music you use...!! 👌
BZ on your support network. Another chapter for your lessons learned.
Much better than the $25,000 one that was a piece of work!
Thanks! We think so too.
Good video guys. A pity about the fuel pump issue. Its always handy to have what the car recovery guys call " A racing fuel cell". That's just a gallon can with a fuel line attached. You can put some fuel in it attach the line directly to the injector pump and hang it above to gravity feed fuel to the engine. Works every time. Have subscribed and look forward to your adventures. Fair winds & regards from the UK
Sounds so simple that it just might work! I think we'll try to figure this out and maybe put out a video on how we did this. It could be helpful for a lot of boat owners. Thanks for the suggestion!
You guys seem to hit all my hometowns. We probably know a lot of the same people.
I used to work at Seffens Marina, which was at the St. Pete end of the Gandy Bridge, no longer there.
Why not get a Patreon page for people to support your efforts?
I have seen 50 ft sailboats go for $1 but they take tens of thousands to restore often. Most often they need an expensive engine to start so you made out there. I would have the fuel tank cleaned professionally, change all filters, empty the water fuel separator, check / replace all hoses etc to start and keep that expensive engine in top condition for starters. Best of everything life has to offer to both of you. The trip and memories last a lifetime, especially when you are too old to well, do much more than enjoy your memories of youth :-)
Totally awsum video..your doin magic, giggle..thx furr sharing...
a new fan
Lol thank you! Glad you enjoyed it. -Randi
What an amazing find!....I like your new boat!
Thanks so much! We are enjoying her for sure.
I see you guys motoring a lot, don't be afraid to put out your sails guys . Great video keep it up
Thanks for watching! We would love to sail more. Just weren't having luck with wind (there was no wind). :( -Randi
lol. My BF bought my dog a life jacket two summers ago! He steals my dog throughout the summer to go crabbing. Love Abandon Comfort. Waiting for them to be on the water again.
That's great! I'm sure your dog enjoys going crabbing with him. I feel like dogs always love getting brought along. We can't wait for them to get on the water either. Hopefully we can stow away somewhere on Luci. Lol. -Randi
Your first adventure on this boat ... great! :) And I love the new name "SV Freebie" :D ... a very nice name, sounds like many good journeys with great experiences. I wish you all a lot of fun with it and I'm glad to hear that the boat seems to be in good shape.
The engine defect ... that could have happened to anyone. Do not worry about it, corrosion on an older boat is more than normal. But you will have to check all this to find all those little flaws. Nevertheless, a great video, thanks a lot for taking us on your first ride. :)
I wish the SV Freebie and its crew bon voyage at all times and that it will always have a a hand's breadth of water below the keel - as we always say in Germany.
Greetings - Fin
Thank you, Fin! We've been in most of her nooks and crannies looking her over. Now we know that we really want to inspect all of her electronic connections very carefully though and grease the terminals to prevent future corrosion. I am sure we will find little things to fix along the way in addition to the cosmetic fixes she needs.
Awesome video
Free boat let's go.
Awesome trip. It looks so nice. I'm in the grips of -12c and 6 inches of snow overnight. While watching the video and your engine trouble, it was running fine and suddenly not running, so I was thinking an electrical issue. Boats, water and electrical always tend to corrode connections. A free boat is still worth those small problems. Congrats on bringing it home. I'm so jealous right now. :=/
BRRR! It's currently 46F/7.8C here and I think that's plenty cold. Lol. We are going to go over our connections and grease them to prevent further corrosion. -Randi
You guys made out like bandits!
Thanks for watching!
Good job guys, I know that fuel pump connection is factory and does not look like it could ever fail. I'll check mine in spring! Got same engine.
So glad you were also able to sail too. I was going to say could you get you in mast roller mainsail enlarge from your old boat but you're main looked good! What a deal! Fix as you go and enjoy. Cheers Warren.
Thanks for the feedback! This was not something I thought would fail but hey, I'm new to diesels so my thoughts aren't worth much, lol. Definitely check your connections! Cheers.
Enjoyed the video. Looking forward to the adventure! Happy you got a bigger boat, hate that you wont be working on the O'day 272 anymore. I actually bought one myself this summer and just started working on it this winter to take to the Keys next winter. I hope. Awesome to see Abandon Comfort. I love their channel as well. Stuck in Kentucky living the sailing life through RUclipsrs.
Depending on who ends up with the boat, there may still be videos of it coming. Just a thought. Lol. We always wanted to do a Keys trip with Somnium, so I hope you get to take your O'Day 272 there. Ryan and Kelsey are amazing. Can't wait to see how their video from the trip ends up. -Randi
Welcome to sail boat life challenging at times. You did very well.....S/V Teak Key
Thank you for the feedback and for watching! -Randi
I would take a free boat! This can happen with everything, as long as it has a engine. Even your Mercedes that is 4 hours old could have that kind a problem! Hey, what you eat if you do not have a fridge nor stove, that is what I do at the time. So my food looks like fruits and bread ;)
I'm just going to say praise God your engine quit where it did at least you were close to access to a Mooring ball that's a blessing in itself... But still sorry you're engine quit... $200 to get it fixed ain't too bad of a kick in the shorts.... Praise God that it all worked out for you kids I'm sure there's many more blessings on down the road for y'all.... Be blessed.... BBE 🤗🤗👍👍😀
We were very lucky about where the engine quit- nice, secure location. Honestly, the $200 was really worth it because it brings peace of mind knowing that we had a true diesel mechanic look over the engine as well. -Randi
Ohh you were those people lol i remember watching 16:30 on abandon comfort
Reminded me of motoring down the ship canal from Lake Union in Seattle to the locks in Ballard. Several draw bridges to cope with, and rafting in the locks with other boats.
It's an interesting experience to go through so many draw bridges and locks. It was a fun adventure! -Randi
So sorry for your bad luck but still a great video!!!
I am hooked with your Channel good luck with SV Freebie. Look forward to seeing more videos. Ray from the UK.
Thank you! Glad you are enjoying the channel. :)
I came here from abandoned comfort..... I like the vids!!!!! Good job!!!!
Thank you! Glad we got to share this experience with them. :) -Randi
Always excited to see the next adventure. Still glad you guys were the ones to get that free boat. Also, you sailed right passed where I am in Stuart
Thank you! We are excited to get to share this opportunity with all of you. My grandfather lived in Stuart for quite some time. Great place! -Randi
Great video of your first trip was fun to watch. Good luck as you take multiple journeys [different journeys: 1)going places in your boat, 2)learning your boat, 3)repairing/upgrading your boat] . It is all very emotional. I noticed in part of your video while in one of the locks you laid your handheld radio on top of your bimini. I wouldn't do that because a shift in the boat for any reason could cause it to slide off into the water. Lots to think about while in a lock and sometimes lots of movement.
I noticed that handheld too as I watched the film, meant to say something to Jordan. Thanks for reminding me. Lol. We are very excited about all the possibilities with this boat! We look forward to sharing our journeys with her. -Randi
good show guys i well be looking for more show thanks for shareing..
Thank you for the feedback! Hope you enjoy the rest of the episodes. -Randi
PS
Used to 'crew', and do a bit of sailing, more than 3 decades ago in Greece 😊
All love, and keep up the good work, Claire, Berlin, Germany 😊 😙 😙
Greece is certainly on my bucket list, beautiful water. My cousin and his wife were stationed in Germany for quite some time. They loved it there. Would love to visit there as well. -Randi
I am so glad you made a comment about clearance height during you're passage under the lift bridge. My mast is 45 feet plus wind vein, and I was worried I wouldn't make it under the bridge. My word-of-mouth info was that it was 42 feet. I need to get that chart! I may still go around on the outside just to go to Key West for a "liberty port" but at least I know that Okeechobee is an option.
I totally agree with the comments of Tylee and Alf Torp. With a Westerbeke, other than an ol' Detroit is one of the simplest diesels out there, unless it stops with a loud mechanical clunk (main bearing seize or worse, a broken piston rod) it will be a fuel problem. Since you replaced the old fuel you would rule out clogged injectors, which leaves one thing - fuel pump. Not all Westerbekes are set up exactly the same, some have a shut off solenoid and some have an in-line electrical fuel pump, and either (sometimes both) are connected to a safety cut off relay circuit controlled by the oil pressure and water temp gauges. Wire corrosion and previous owner "gerry-rigging" are the two major things that will give you problems with your Westerbeke. A really good initial test is to simply run a wire from the battery to the electric fuel pump. Only do this if you are sure the engine isn't overheating and has good oil pressure. If yours is a mechanical fuel pump with a solenoid the most effective *emergency* solution is to bypass it with an emergency electric fuel pump. With some fuel hose, hook the pump directly to the throttle inlet tubing. For $50 from AutoZone, Advance or NAPA, a generic, 12 volt inline fuel pump, 2 feet of fuel line hose and six appropriately sized hose clamps (not zip-ties) should (must) be part of your emergency engineering kit. Wire connection corrosion are a constant problem everywhere on a boat and should be part of your periodic maintenance checks.
All in all, a nice passage. Even an unexpected squaw can be a nice excuse to duck below and cuddle with the spouse ;) Even brand new boat deliveries are rarely "un-eventful". As long as you keep a cool head and don't panic or curl up in a corner of the cockpit and give up (I HAVE seen that response ... by a former wife!) it's the "events" that make the sea stories you later tell your grand kids!
Now comes the refurbishing work. Just try not to get so wrapped up in the yard work that you neglect to get her out in the bay once in a while. Fair Weather and Following Seas! I'll be watching. Capt Paul "Pappy"
Thanks for the informative feedback as always! I'll be sure to figure out if our engine has a shutoff solenoid or an in-line electrical fuel pump, and figure out the best way to jerry rig it if fails again on a longer passage.
For the bridge height we used Active Captain. If you're not familiar you can find it here. activecaptain.com/na_st_petersburg_us/. The live map is interactive and tells you information you need for cruising about bridges, anchorages, shoaling, etc. It's updated by cruisers so it stays as current as possible.
Thanks again for watching! Fair winds!
unless a free boat is sinking while u get it, it is always worth it since u can spend the thousands of bucks on exactly what u need ur boat to be.
Hey a free boat..... just enjoy the journey and think of the fun your having. who cares if the motor quit. Just part of your adventure..
One of my favorite quotes is "The only difference between an ordeal and an adventure is your attitude." This was an adventure for sure. :) - Randi
On a motor boat, places are the destination. On sailboats, the boat is the destination.
Couldn't agree more. Thanks for watching!
looked like motoring to me--same for most "sailing" videos....
It's a good idea to close up all the thru-hulls when you are not on the boat. We turn off the engine raw water seacock when we take the key out of the ignition, then hang it on the valve handle so it isn't forgotten. I really don't trust the engine cooling system not to leak when it isn't being used or watched. Too many points of failure. IMHO, never trust something that can fail when it comes to keeping water out of the boat when a simple valve could have been turned off to prevent it. Wicked Salty lost their new boat because their head siphoned water up through it and flooded the boat when it was on the mooring can. Simple to have prevented it just by making it a habit to close all the thru-hulls every time you leave the boat -except for cockpit scuppers which need to be left on so rainwater can drain through.
Don't sweat the engine thing. All older sailboats are going to run into fuel issues sooner or later if they are not kept up meticulously and most people don't know how to do that. You'll learn it as you go, and eventually it'll become second nature (or you will go broke paying professional mechanics forever) But it isn't really all that difficult once you start learning the common failures and how to fix and even prevent them. Get Nigel Calder's books on diesel repair and he'll walk you through the troubleshooting of problems as well as maintaining the fuel system so that problems are minimized if not almost totally avoided. Remember with diesel engines it is almost always fuel. Fuel, fuel, fuel. If it is a non-fuel issue it is likely to be a VERY expensive failure -often requiring a rebuild that may or may not be worth doing on an older engine.
Have fun. Learn those lines :D
Thanks for the input! We do make it a habit of closing the thru hulls whenever we leave the boat. I can't imagine how I would feel if I knew leaving the thru-hull open was the reason my boat sank. I don't think I could forgive myself. Lol.
We actually were given a Nigel Calder book about engine maintenance from the previous owner. When the engine went out in the waterway we were looking over every possible reason in the book. It's why we were thinking it had to be the fuel pump diaphragm. Right part, but ended up being the power for the fuel pump. It is definitely a helpful book. -Randi
That's a great looking boat. I'm coming over to Florida from Ireland beginning of July. Going to take a look at the marinas over there.
happy for you that it was an easy fix
Thanks!
Really liked this video and I tend to enjoy sailing vids yet have never sailed but hope to one day. Great to see an authentic sailing video based on a couple that's not promoting their channel with skin. Very good looking couple and I say that with respect as you honestly look like a authentic couple that supports one another. You are very blessed to have found one another. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos. Dont get discouraged, things break and its part of the adventure. I am envious of your guts and determination as well as the mere fact that you are actually doing it. best of luck.
I'm a new sailboat owner, and I already have some regrets. I had watched S/V Atom's postings about refitting boats with little outboard motors, and couldn't understand why someone would do that. My little diesel has run flawlessly, but doing maintenance is a pain (hard to get into the engine bay where half the damn things are located), and it takes up a ton of boat room for storage in a long distance passage. IMHO, I would take that into consideration for the next boat you purchase. Really good video! I look forward to more!
How in the world did you find yourself a free boat in that remarkable shape?!
Love your passion to live and dream!
Thank you!
Goes to show ya...and as my dad always says check the easy stuff 1st. I too have had a wire issue on a truck and had to lurn it the hard way.
Subbed & liked 😀 been watching alota sailing vids (nvr sailed in my life lol) but i njoy urs the best. Jst coz u guys seem like genuinely lovely people. Ur down to earth and i love dat ur totally not arrogant, vry refreshing to watch. I think ur contents vry informative and if i were to start sailing ur channel would b a godsend. Neway thanks for sharing and keep on keeping on ☺️
Fair weather and fair seas!
🌊🐬⚓⛵💙⛵⚓🐬🌊
Early morning & goood cup of coffee, don't get no better, than that. Enjoy the time you have, you may have to go to work or something. Ever eat a Spam sandwich with a mater on it. Might be Tennessee thang.
Lol can't say I've ever enjoyed that delicacy. Thanks for watching. I saw the you also commented on the Irwin video, so you've found out we did not purchase that one.
Since you said neither Somnium nor Freebie are your forever boat, I vote for the idea that you sell both and put the money towards a boat you think will take you where you want to go.
It's definitely a thought that has crossed our minds, but we want to spend some time enjoying Freebie for a bit while we fix her up. We've missed sailing while Somnium has been on the hard. -Randi
The engine issue could have happened to any second hand boat at any price. It will happen again, as it does to every sailboat engine anywhere in the world. You'll get used to it eventually.
Very true. Seems to be our tradition with boats that the engine cuts out on us soon after "purchase". It happened with our first boat, Somnium, as well. As soon as the previous owner drove off the outboard died. Hopefully it doesn't happen with every "new to us" boat. Lol. -Randi
A diesel engine that has not been well-maintained will likely have fuel-related issues. If not in the tank with diesel bugs, or in the filters, it'll gum up in the lift or injector pumps or in the injectors themselves. It's all about fuel quality and maintaining of the filters, hoses, and hose fittings. You should go through every fuel hose and connector and replace them if they are at all iffy. Rubber fuel hoses only have a lifespan of a few years before they become prone to failures and are no longer going to be reliable. Also always have a spare fuel pump on board, and enough spare hose to fix any 2 runs of line plus all the fittings and hose clamps. You will figure this stuff out. People don't usually sell or give away boats that are in tip-top shape. There is usually a reason why they are getting rid of them. Boats that are sold by people who are very anal about maintenance and have service records and documentation of the work usually sell for a LOT more money. There is a reason for that.
Always have a back up kicker . Beats rowing
Living a life of sailing seems cool.
Great video keep up the great work you guys from Australia
Thanks for the watching and the feedback!
You guys are so lucky, I had to pay Billy the Boat Tipper to get me under that 49' bridge!
Oh my goodness. That would make me so nervous. I think I would have rather gone around the keys. Lol.
Love the name!!! Perfecto!
Good for you guys.
Its all about the adventure, if everything went perfect it would be boring (right)! great vid keep living the dream.
It was quite the adventure! Thanks for watching and following along with us! -Randi