Bowsprit Revisited

Amazingly enough we had phenomenal weather this weekend that did not end up breaking the 100 degree mark + was relatively dry! I decided to take advantage of it  by continuing to tackle getting the deck ready for final epoxy coats.

As part of the finishing process I decided to test fit the bowsprit. I had to sand down portion of the gunnel on the front transom in order for it to line up with the rear support. I also took the opportunity to sand in the grove on the inboard side of the gunnel for the forward lashing that will support the forestay.

The other thing that came to light is that even though the tapered bowsprit looks pretty cool, functionally I would have been better off not to taper it since the support is sized for the full diameter of the bowsprit when it is fully extended. The issue comes up when you retract it and the bowsprit ends up being poorly supported and subject to banging around! Live and learn!

I also took advantage of the weather and started sanding down the upper deck. I am happy to say that I got the bulk of it down. I believe that one more solid effort of sanding and I will be ready to start the laminating epoxy!