Engine out of the boat: Projects to do

  • April 03, 2024 12:59 AM
    Message # 13338145

    Hello everyone,

    I'm excited to share that I've recently acquired my first sailboat, Westsail #124 from 1973. As part of my plans, I intend to remove the engine for a complete retrofit, or possibly a repowering, depending on the quotations I receive for a cost/benefit analysis. The original Perkins 4-107 engine, which mixes diesel and lubricant oil, will be the focus of this retrofit.

    I'd like to tap into your collective expertise and ask: what are some "best practices/mandatory" projects that I should consider while the engine is out? Seacocks position, stainless diesel tank, valves... 

    Besides the engine... my current general plans include tasks such as cleaning and repainting the engine room, replacing old hoses and organizing the electrical system, as well as cleaning the hull and reapplying antifouling.

    I appreciate any insights or suggestions you may have. Thank you in advance


    Best regards

    Felipe Tavares

    Talofa Lee (Auckland - NZ)


    2 files
    Last modified: April 03, 2024 12:59 AM | Anonymous member
  • April 03, 2024 11:01 AM
    Reply # 13338375 on 13338145

    Hello Felipe and family , congratulations on acquiring Talofa Lee . 

    As I understand it the Perkins 4-107 is a great engine , hopefully all it will need is a ring job and a freshen up .

    Your current plans sound good , that engine room looks pretty clean to me . 

    Good luck , and keep us posted . 

    Last modified: April 04, 2024 9:11 AM | Anonymous member
  • April 06, 2024 12:33 PM
    Reply # 13339845 on 13338145

    Hello Felipe + Family & Taiofa Lee

    Congratulations On Your New To You Westsail!

    And A Warm Welcome To The Westsail Family!

    Heres My $.02 I Presume Taiofa Lee Is On The Hard, That Will Make Some / Most Projects Easier.

    About The Engine, Have You Figured Out Why Diesel Fuel Is Mixing With Engine Oil.Injection Pump, Fuel Injectors, Etc ,Leaking Internally. I Say That Because Some Of These Projects Can Get Expensive Rebuilding Engine When The Problem Could Be Repaired At A Reduced Cost.

    Seacocks / If They Are Serviceable & Backing Plates Look Good                    
    Disassemble, Clean, ( Hone If taper bronze) Grease ,Reassemble 

    Hoses/ Replace As Needed

    Check Stern Tube For Wear

    If You One of The Lucky Ones, That Don’t Have A Leak Inside Your Westsail

    Congratulations! If You Do, A Good Chance It’s Coming From Your Cap Rail. The WOA

    Archives Have Articles About Repairs.

    What I’m Trying To Say Is, Many People Have Gone Down The Same Road As You, But Some Have Never Come Back, Mission Creap. They Ran Out Of Resources, Skill, Time, Motivation Etc. What’s  
    Important For Safety, And Reliablity 1st Than You Can Always Go Back On Less Important Projects Later.

    There Are Many Members Of WOA That Have A Wealth Of Knowledge And Will Help,Just Reach Out. Most People That Take On The Westsail Challenge Are Generally Talented & Resourceful  People, And I’m Sure You Are One Of Them.

    Fair Winds ted

    Sparrow WS # 433

    Last modified: April 24, 2024 4:02 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)
  • April 24, 2024 4:01 PM
    Reply # 13347835 on 13338145
    Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Felipe - Congrats your "new" boat. 

    As Ted mentioned - we can give you advise but the work can be extensive and take time. 

    If you are looking for an idea to keep you busy -- consider moving the cockpit drains. You can seal up the drain holes below the water line. 

    I've subscribed to this topic and I'll get an email ping as messages are added. 

    HTH

    Jay