Sailing Vessel Delos Ep. 513: Painting the Hull & Outboard Engine Service

Hull Painting Progress

• 🎨 Painting day marks a significant milestone, with one layer of barrier coat applied to repairs the previous day.
• 🧼 A thorough wipe-down with acetone is crucial to remove contaminants like yard oil, sanding dust, and organic matter, ensuring proper paint adhesion.
• 🛠️ The barrier coat acts as an epoxy primer, creating a watertight layer over repairs to prevent moisture ingress and delamination.
• 🖌️ A combination of rollers and brushes is used for efficient application, with rollers covering large areas and brushes detailing edges and fittings.
• 🌊 The team applied one coat of blue paint until it ran out, then switched to black, with a second all-black coat planned for a better aesthetic.

Outboard Engine Maintenance

• ⚙️ Servicing the outboard engine involves an oil change, filter change, and lower end oil unit change.
• 🐝 A wasp nest was discovered and removed from the engine housing, causing some agitation among the insects.
• 💧 The engine's tilt lever was seized due to lack of lubrication, requiring a temporary fix with an O-ring and RTV sealant.
• ⛽ A water fuel separator also needed replacement due to rust and leakage.
• ✅ After initial servicing, the outboard engine was tested and successfully started, marking a major project completion.

Galley and Interior Build

• 🗄️ New galley pieces were picked up after being spray varnished, with a decision made on a greener color for the walls and countertop.
• 🛌 The bed frame for the starboard side is nearing completion, with wardrobes planned.
• 🚿 Work continues in the master head, with railings installed and plans for the toilet and shower area.

Final Preparations and Challenges

• ⚓ The team is in the final stretch to get back on the water, with splashdown planned for Friday.
• 🔋 A dead 12-volt battery for the starter was discovered, requiring replacement.
• 🧼 Cleaning the hull and touching up the waterline are among the last tasks before splashing.
• 🧩 Despite challenges and unexpected problems, the satisfaction of crossing tasks off the list and making progress is a significant reward.