As we watch to see the track of Invest 97L and wait for it to go by, we’ve been passing the time tackling some final prep tasks. The above sign struck me as funny and oh so true! 🙂 First, down I went into my favorite cramped space…the engine compartment. I changed some belts, hoses, and hose clamps that showed some wear as well as making sure we had spares of any of these. I also removed the raw water pump, checked the impeller, and cleaned and back flushed all the parts of the engine cooling system, followed by flushing the cooling system with a cleaner substance that removes salt deposits. Also changed the engine zincs. Think I sound like some super knowledgeable diesel mechanic? Ha! Other than changing the zincs, this was the first time I had done any of the above. Kind of a learn as I go thing, but each time, I get more and more familiar with the systems.
Next I shocked our fresh water (drinking, bathing, etc) tanks with a bleach solution and flushed the system out really good so the water will be super clean and tasty. I told Lindy that I cleaned the system so good, it’ll have healing properties like drinking from the Fountain of Youth!
Oh yeah, and a very Happy Birthday to this girl today! You make my dreams come true. I love you so much and can’t wait for all the adventures we are about to have together.
Rita Wiggins
September 28, 2016 at 2:55 pmExcited for y’all and also sad that you may/will miss our family gatherings. I pray for your safety and good health every night. Zach you sure look a little greasy from all your machanic adventures, make sure you take some Dawn along so if you have to get into anymore greasy situations. Happy Birthday again Lindy and see y’all soon. Love y’all!
Mary Wey Duncan
September 28, 2016 at 4:52 pmRita said it so well and I do think sailing is a lot like painting. It’s all about the preparation and I’d say you have carefully prepared. After all this prep, you surely deserve some downtime and should be able to relax after you set sail. Let us know where and when you’ll be docking when you are near us and we’ll meet you there. Happy birthday again Lindy.
Kelly Canady
September 28, 2016 at 4:56 pmFair winds and following seas!
Sally
September 28, 2016 at 8:51 pmThere’s a new storm out there, Matthew. Better wait until it goes by
zdunc
September 28, 2016 at 9:04 pmYep, that’s what the Invest 97L turned into. Hopefully the last storm of the season that enters the area, but we’ll see.
David Duncan
September 28, 2016 at 11:05 pmNice work! Y’all are working hard and preparing well. Love all the pictures documenting the work you are doing. But I especially love the last picture of Lindy’s silhouette against the sunset in the background – just beautiful!! Happy birthday, Lindy!