Skylark has a New Atomic 4

Just a quick update, the new Atomic 4 is back aboard Skylark and being installed as we speak. There are quite a few other tasks that need to be done as well, but hopefully, all should be good by the end of the week. I am excited to say the least. More info and pics to come.

Florida Nor' Easter

Wow, it started Friday with sustained 15mph winds and rain. Today, we are getting creamed with 25-40mph winds and heavy down pours. Supposed to be just as bad tomorrow and Monday, they are calling for 50+mph winds and gusts. I tell you right now, these winds and waves are worse than the weather we got from the passing hurricane a few weeks back and we get the pleasure for 4 days straight.
Welcome to October weather in Florida.

Theres a Small Boat made of China, Going Nowhere on the Mantelpiece

Challenge! What band sang the lyrics "There's a Small Boat made of China, Going Nowhere on the Mantelpiece"...No Google allowed.


Out with the old, in with the new



Well, Skylark is still not going anywhere either, but there has been a lot done over the past few months to get us where we need to be. Lets start with the question everyone keeps asking. Whats up with the engine? Well, the short answer is that it has been rebuilt and its ready to go back in. I have some pics that show the progression of what was done and then the final product. Wanted to be sure it was done right while it was out on the bench rather than deal with additional problems after the fact. Because of that, Scott changed out quite a few parts as well as all of the gaskets we could get our hands on. It has been a lot of work, but the end result is pretty darn nice. Now we just got to get it in.

 

In addition to the engine prep, my Australian buddy and neighbor Ralph helped me finally get running water on Skylark. I am still in shock not having to fill my jug everyday, but I am sure I will get used it very quickly. We had taken a small road trip to St. Augustine to hit the mecca of used sailboat parts at Sailor's Exchange. If you are in the area and have not been to Sailor's Exchange, you really need to go. Check out the website for an idea of what they are all about.  Sailor's Exchange. The deals you can find there are unreal. Among other things, I found a new single feed kitchen faucet which I got for $10 bucks. New, this faucet would have been north of $150. I don't know where they get their stock, but for these prices, I really don't care. They have anything and everything you could need. Worth the drive and the gas for the savings you will get.

Anyway, I now have running city water while at the dock. I still need to work out the fresh water tanks, but that is on the short list for the fall. In the meantime, no more water jugs.

Weather is starting to turn a bit cooler. We got down into the low 50's last night and only into the low 70's today. It's been a brutally tough summer, so the change is welcome. Hopefully I will be able to get out soon and enjoy some of this great weather. If all goes to plan, it should not be long now.