[C320-list] mysterious full bilge

[Jeffrey Hare]

Warren, 

   Their boat is hull 1089 as I recall, so doesn't have the bilge grid liner
arrangement of the older c320s.

If they were able to see it in the bilge, then they are seeing the water in
the main bilge compartment aft of the mast.

Susan brings up a great point, however that it would be great to make a
short video showing the basic procedure for winterizing the boat.  People
all have different ideas about how to do this, but a video showing how to do
this will provide a basis for understanding what needs to be done and
everyone can alter it based on their situation or location.

-Jeff

-----Original Message-----
From: Warren Updike [mailto:wupdike at hotmail.com] 
Sent: Friday, January 05, 2007 2:21 PM
To: c320-list at catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] mysterious full bilge

Susan,

You didn't mention specifically where under the sole the water was found.
Also, you don't mention what year is your boat; but, if you've seen some of
my previous messages re. the floor of older 320s there are some bilge voids
under the sole forward of the mast that don't drain to the pump.  If you
have the open bilge spaces under the sole, consider sealing the underside of
the sole with epoxy.  In any event, be sure you get the plywood sole fully
dried-out even if that means removing the sole (not a difficult job,) to
home where it can dry.  Over time the moisture will promote mildew that may
permeate the wood and ruin the finish on the sole.  It did on ours.

One thing not previously mentioned in the replies is the removal of the
speed transducer prior to hauling.  Could it be that the marina mechanic who
removed the speed transducer let in too much water and didn't remove it?
Still 25 gal. is a whopping lot of water to gain for this operation.  Could
it be the mechanic wasn't ready with the plug after pulling the transducer;
and, not wanting to admit to his supervisor how dumb he was just let the
water stand?  This would be gross neglect on the part of the marina.

You definitely need to know exactly what is done during a "winterizing."
Also, if the service manager did not inspect the boat after his crew were
done, I would consider never having that shop do any future work for me.
The cost of repair resulting from improper winterization could be huge and
would have a disastrous impact on your attitudes as new boat owners.

This list and the archives on the website have innumerable and good articles
on the winterizing process.  Take the time this winter to find and read them
with the understanding that there are usually several approaches to any of
the processes.  The end result is a protected boat.  How one gets there is
usually a matter of preference and convenience.

Bottom line: Now, before the freeze hits, find out what needs to be done and
do it.

Warren & Pattie Updike
C320, #62, 1994, "Warr De Mar"
Frog Mortar Creek, Middle River
Chesapeake Bay