SO42DS Repairs & Upgrades

[Tafika II]

We just completed some major overhauls, upgrades and repairs before we leave for the Caribbean this fall.

• AirBreeze Wind Generator – Installed with new stainless structure on the arch…with the true wind at 15knots, it yielded 4.7Amps. We haven’t had much wind when I was on the boat since I installed it to check higher values, but I am satisfied with this preliminary outcome. Very quiet operation.
• Hard Rigging Inspection/Insurance Certification – All was OK except for the forestay…6 of 19 strands broken at the top…very unexpected…replaced…not cheap but glad we caught it!
• Hot water heater – Thermostat shorted and burned out, along with the heating element…not expected, but glad it happened before we left – Fixed & working well.
• Spectra Catalina 300 Watermaker – Sprung a pin-hole leak in the pressure casting…not expected…replaced the end cap, seal and stainless J Tube – Fixed & working well.
• Water Muffler – Developed a crack in the large thread section which was leaking small amounts of seawater into the bilge – Replaced water muffler, “O” ring & flange fitting - Fixed & working well with no leaks.
• Viking 4 person offshore life raft install – Amazingly easy installation with no problems. I hope we never have to use it.
• Sails removed, recut the main, some minor re-stitching, added wear pads to protect from the spreaders and replaced the UV cover on the genoa
• All running rigging has been replaced with Samson MLX line
• All canvas has been replaced and new cockpit enclosed added, along with removable sunscreens.
• Dual Racor filters installed with a 12VDC boost/backup pump
• Upgraded Wi-Fi antenna
• Replaced Sirius XM antenna
• Inspected, tightened and greased all steering chain and fittings
• Replaced worn genoa lead cars with Garhauer EZGlide 3 tracks
• Replace Mixer Elbow on Engine & added more flexible exhaust hose


A haulout was completed for inspection of all thru hull checks, rudder inspection, cutlass bearing (replaced), along with Awlgrip paint touchup.

During the summer, we will be replacing the 7 year old AGM Mastervolt 90ah batteries, replenish the ditch bag, check the fire extinguishers, get updated flares, service the winches, engine and genset service, replace the copper foil for the SSB (or install the KISS version), some varnish work and enjoy what left of the summer & early fall. I’m sure more will be added to the list, but the major items are done, except the batteries.

If anyone wants more details, please send me an email at [e-mail] and I’ll send you what I can + some more photos.

[windward54]

Boy, you really have been busy. I was going to tell you to go with the KISS, but I think you already have a dynaplate installed.

[Tafika II]

Hey Bill Bro!
Yes I have & even managed to squeeze in 2 week vacation in Belize and the keys. Still looking at the KISS even though I have the dynaplate. Talk with you this week.

[Trevor]

Hey Brent,

As a fellow 42DS owner (with Awlgrip hull) after reading your preparation list I found I needed a good long sleep (because I was so tired) and then a rethink of my fairly inadequate maintenance regime!

All good info though....thanks...

Trev

[Tafika II]

Trevor, my bank account is also exhausted and resting! The Awlgrip, after air brush three coat touch-up for bangs and bruises and color polishing looks better than new.