Project Overview

June 13, 2015

Over the last couple of weeks since I brought the Cape Dory home, I have been thinking of the list of items to address...the ever-expanding list.  Prior to the getting my hands dirty with starting the restoration, the project experienced significant "scope creep."  Initially, I had plans to address the slight blistering on the bottom: scrap the bottom, grind out the blisters, fill with thickened epoxy, fair the bottom, apply InterProtect 2000E (or similar barrier coat product), and finally apply new bottom paint.  Work enough for anyone!  However, not being one to shy away from boat work, I quickly talked myself into addressing the coaming boards, toe rails, rub rails, cleaning up the bottom, painting the deck and topsides, and replacing the taff rail.  There will likely be a few "add items," but I am happy to address this list through the dog days of summer in time for some great fall and winter sailing.  Today was the first day I had a chance to get better acquainted with the Alva Anne - the name I have chosen for this Cape Dory Typhoon.   

You'll notice the trailer she rests on - custom made by Sail Trailers out of Columbus, GA; Alva Anne will be kept in the water, but the trailer affords the opportunity for seasonal maintenance on my property and the avoidance of expensive yard fees. 

Aside from the bottom job, removal of the obnoxious motor mount on her transom made the work list early.  In fact, the transom will be cleared of both of the mounts as well as a stern light.  Accomplishing this will leave a clean transom for her name and hailing port.

A view from the stern depicts a lot going on aft.  The 6hp Yamaha that was purchased with the boat has a charging 12V alternator, and so the charging cable and gas lines exited through a deck fitting aft and just to port of the motor mount.  This will all be removed, as I have opted to return to the original  removable bronze Cape Dory motor mount.  While in her slip, the motor and motor mount will be removed.

Moving into the day's, and restoration's, first to-do: removal of the toe rail and rub rails.  As you can see in the picture below, Alva Anne's brightwork has seen better days.  The teak coaming boards and rails are original, and have endured seasons of neglect.

The taff rail will also be replaced during the restoration.

Another picture of the starboard toe rail meeting the taff rail - rough!  With a review of the brightwork completed, I was set to begin work on removal of the toe rails and rub rails.

Total Time: .5 Hours