September, 2000
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Up to September 5th, 2000
After flipping the boat, it was time to tidy up the lift duct and paint the inside. For this I'm using Home Depot 100% Acrylic heavy duty white primer and another 100% Acrylic topcoat. This is barely permeable and will help the wood dry out to prevent rot, should anything get in from outside. I chose this rather than polyurethane after reading about 100% Acrylic Latex being used to good effect on yachts. After all the hull is not being kept in the water, it is way cheaper in thousands of colors they mix for you at no extra charge. It is designed to last for years on sidings and outdoor wood, and should give several years of good service.
21st September, 2000
After applying two coats of paint I turned my attention to the seat and steering. Having found the seat support pieces I had cut earlier, I realized now was the time to fabricate the steering column. After much asking around, I gave in and bought an arc welder. It took a few days of practice till I was confident I could do the job. Neighbor Dave kindly cut the holes in the steel sheet and it fitted perfectly. welding took just a few minutes and went quite well. After grinding a little to tidy it and check the weld, I sprayed it with red rust-stop to prevent corrosion.
End of September, 2000
Fitted steering rod into place with some aluminum plates. Fitted seat supports and extra added cross-pieces - just to make it all a little more solid. Temperature just right now - really comfortable to work in the garage...
