We had to remove everything from the cabin. Then we removed the base
for the settee that runs from the hatch back to the v-bunk. There
was a support under the base that we removed also. We lifted the
square panel for access to the bilge, and removed the screws and
removed the plank running back from the access hole to the hatch.
Then we removed many screws and the cap came off.
We had to remove the block attached to the cap for raising the
centerboard; then we had the cap in our hands. We cleared the
centerboard so it would drop again, and found no other damage. We
thought about repairing the old centerboard cap, but decided to get
a new one. That way we could trust its integrity. Now we have to
drill the 50 or so holes in the cap, either buy some more of the
screws we took out, or tap the well top for the screws Stan brought
up to the show.
Cam Whetstone
The '79 that Sue and I have is a Continental. Also regarding leaks.
Leaks are like... well you know. Everyone has one. Ours is a
constant drip apparently from under the centerboard cap. It's very
slow. Someone suggested we trailer the boat (put weight on the keel)
and then retighten the cap bolts. Other suggestions or comments?
Weather on the Tennessee River here in Knoxville is questionable but
we had s/v 15 South out a couple of weekends ago in 60 degrees with
good wind.
Bill Shafer (and Sue)
s/v 15 South
Are you sure you have cap bolts? I have a 1977 Continental, and just
pulled the centerboard. The well cap is attached with 90+ pop rivets.
They have to be drilled out - not a hard job - as (in my case) all
but three were aluminum. The stainless steel rivets are much harder
to remove, and I don't recommend them. I also wouldn't replace with
bolts, because it will be very hard to get them out in the future.
To permanently repair your leak, I think you will have to remove and
re-bed the whole cover while it is on the trailer. However, while
it's in the water, I think you could safely tighten an area by
replacing rivets one at a time.
My particular problem was a leak through a crack in the middle of the
fiberglass trunk cover. I could have repaired from the outside, but
the job will be better with work on both sides of the cover - and is
easy now that it's off.
Good luck with your repair.
George Staples
