Engine Installation, a trip to the boatyard

On Monday, 3/26, Windarra was towed over to the La Cruz Boatyard. There were a few tense moments for us as the wind was picking up and the yard was using a ski boat to tow us as opposed to a dingy tied to the aft quarter. One fellow was driving the ski boat and the other was lying across the back end holding a line attached to Windarra’s bow. Once he dropped the line and we were adrift in the middle of the fairway, but a quick toss and we were under tow again. It was a little hectic maneuvering us passed SV Ponderosa on the fuel dock but soon we were being lifted on the very large travel lift.

The last time the bottom had been cleaned was in Paradise Village as we were preparing to leave on January 5. Things grow fast here in the warmer water. When Windarra came out of the water you could see a lot of growth. It is often referred to as a boat beard. To carry on this analogy, think of ZZTop. The propeller looked like a toilet bowl brush. It looked a lot better after it was pressure washed. Rich and I scraped off barnacles. Rich cleaned the shaft, strut, propeller and shoe as well as replacing the zincs.

In the afternoon the crane, mounted on a truck arrived. Straps were attached to lower the engine, transmission end first. Rich and I had cleared the entry. The salon table was moved, the companionway stairs removed, dodger removed and the boom was swung over to one side. The crane lifted the engine, lowered it through the companionway and then swung into the engine compartment. This took about 3 hours of careful communication and maneuvering between Fernando the mechanic and the crane operators. It was very nicely done.

Now the engine is mounted on blocks in the engine compartment and aligned with the shaft. A new flex coupler is on order. Modifications will need to be made to the brackets for the new motor mounts to maintain the alignment.

We wish to thank Kellie and Terry of SV Noah who were gracious enough to let us spend the night on their boat while Windarra was in the yard overnight.

Tuesday morning Windarra was towed back to our slip. It is great to see an engine in the compartment. We will keep you informed of the progress.