Basket Case for Sale

[JOHN COOKSON]

ANOTHER $0.02

RIC
Do you know what the compression numbers are?

I would start with two items:
(1) A pressure test of the engine and manifold.
(2) Did the survey you mentioned in post #1 include look at the underwater part of the boat? If not a dive under the boat, by you or someone else, to survey the underwater metals - in particular the shaft, prop and strut. When a boat has been ignored like this one I would be suspicious of damage to the underwater metals if the zincs had not been replaced as needed.

As I mentioned free boats are usually not free.

ex TRUE GRIT

[cub_hawaii]

Ric,

I am in the process of bring an A4 back to life in kailua, this forum has been a HUGE help. As they mention if you have good compression the rest is straight forward, here and the Moyer videos to get it running,

[roadnsky]

Ric-
The guys have made some good observations and suggestions already.
(John's post #2 pretty much sums it up)

Obviously, it appears you’ll need to:
• Rebuild the exhaust (easy and inexpensive task)
• A once-over of the cooling system
(at least replace hoses and change out coolant)
• Clean the fuel system and replace hoses (loose the squeeze bulb)
• Rebuild or at least clean out the carb
• Change Oil
• Those THRU HULLS should also be looked at carefully (can sink the boat)

Here is the big question...
WHAT WILL THIS BOAT BE FOR YOU?

The answer to that question will decide your “passion” and “commitment” to her
and help you decide how much blood, sweat and boat buck$ you want to invest.

Looking at the pictures, it seems like a lot, but if you’re really interested in bringing her
around, then I don’t think it’s all that bad (considering the corrosive Hawaiian ocean environment)
Make a list, in order of priority and work down. (it’s a boat... you’ll never get to the bottom)

A compression test is your first priority and will help you decide how deep to commit.
We can walk you thru doing the test or maybe Joe or Cub would be willing to come over and help and also give an honest “Live Overview” of what you have.
OR did you say your “Guy” already did one?
If so, get those numbers from him.

On that point...
You could spend the $500 and probably get her running. (how well?)
BUT, you will not get
• Knowledge and confidence in your Auxillary Sail
• KNOW that things are fixed RIGHT
Instead, for the same amount or likely much less, you could do the work with help from everyone here AND gain the knowledge and have the work done right.

Also, for the price of Lunch, you might be able to recruit Joe or Cub to come get you started.

Finally, is the boat currently in the water or on the hard?

[JOHN COOKSON]

Hi Ric
I want to reply to your PM in the open forum. Hope that is alright.
I don't see anything in the pictures that hasn't been mentioned already. SubtoSail gave an excellent analysis, IMO.

What do the sails look like? New sails are a bit expensive.
I am not trying to throw cold water on your plans.
For most owning a boat is akin to getting married. I want to be sure as possible that you have both eyes wide open as you consider a new relationship. From the look of the engine this boat needs a lot of TLC.

ex TRUE GRIT

[ric sheridan]

The boat is worthy. We sailed her from Kaneohe to Haleiwa (40 miles without an engine) Standing rigging is newer. Rigging and sails are good. Just everywhere I look it is the small stuff. The boat was moored to a ball for four years and neglected. Stanchions need to be reseated etc..... But the boat is solid. I bought a new 8 hp yamaha kicker so I can get out of the harbor for the sea trials. But I am not giving up on the Atomic.
The cover is there just not in the picture. The pipe is frozen. A pipe wrench couldn't turn it. Torch is scary next to the gas tank. I will have to drain the old gas and see if he tank can come out making some more room behind the engine. The mechanic couldn't figure out what the extra thing was on the cooling system was either. I will take off thermostat and the pump. ( I have the re build kit) The Mechanic said to retorque the heads just to be sure before the compression test. a little marvel oil and wait. I think my battery even though it says 12 volts is still bad. I think I might be closer than I think.
My question is how do I clean this thing up in place without getting all the crap down into the boat? Any ideas. Vacum while I scrape and brush or do I just let it all go down in the bilge and clean the bilge?

Thanks again you guys. And you too Mr. Moyer.

[cub_hawaii]

I just got the compression tool and realized I have low compression on all cylinders. I'm going to do an air pressure test to see where the leak is, valves or pistons. I did a make feeler gauge adjustments to the valves so I'm guessing that is where I've lost the compression. Ric, what were the compression numbers?
aloha,
Chris Berard

[ric sheridan]

The engine is on the back burner right now. Trying to get ready for the sea trials and inspection from the Harbor Master. Putting in a new battery this week and I am tempted to turn it over without the spark plugs in it. The oil looks brand new and smells great even after sitting for two years.

[JOHN COOKSON]

. The oil looks brand new and smells great even after sitting for two years.

Does the oil smell somewhat like wintergreen? MMO has a wintergreen scent.

ex TRUE GRIT

[ric sheridan]

Oil looks new and it doesnt smell like anything but oil.