Now that all the pleasantries and introductions had been done, we needed to begin the process of restoring Harmony. We could see in our mind's eye what she would become, but we had a bunch of stuff to fix, which means all sorts of implements of destruction!
During the Fall of 2011, we concentrated on cleaning out Harmony of all the loose material. It was important to catalog what we had and what we were missing. We had a beautiful teak wheel, but not much more. Sadly, we discovered that the classic compass that was on the binnacle when we did our walk through had mysteriously disappeared. Sad, not because it was irreplaceable, but disappointing because someone who knew the boat was being sold climbed up on Harmony and selectively stole that compass.
Oh well. Disappointment aside, we'll rationalize it by saying it was probably broken anyway! And its only a "boat dollar" and that's not much right? Well, every $1,000 adds up.
Anyway, our plan was to clean out the boat of all loose stuff, take basic interior measurements, catalog areas of concern, and then formulate the plan of restoration. This initial work took us about a month, after which we began demolition. Since we needed to rebuild Harmony system by system from the keel up, this demolition promised to be extensive. However, we would find out that extensive was more extensive than thought.
Our summary plan included (1) a completely new wiring and electrical system including solar and wind power; (2) complete new freshwater plumbing including a water maker; (3) New Heads and sanitation systems; (4) a new diesel and raw water systems; (5) new lights, navigation instruments, and radios; (6) new galley and refrigeration; (7) remodeled furniture; (8) new and improved deck hardware and sail controls; and (9) restored bright work. Phew, not too much! Right, the only thing we're not doing is building a new hull and deck!!
Our initial demolition was focused on the galley and dinette area, as we needed to verify the condition of the water and fuel tanks which were housed under this area. This was also the area in which the dry rot damage was concentrated. This work took us from late October until early December 2011. At that point, we had the boat covered with shrink wrap for the winter.
During the winter when it was cold, I planned on removing the boat's two 35 gallon holding tanks and their assorted miles and miles of hoses. This effort included removing two well used marine heads. All I can say is that I am glad it was cold so nothing really smelled. I am also glad that Barden's Boat Yard had done a super job winterizing the boat because all I found in the hoses was antifreeze. Holy Crap, Batman!
However, the holding tanks were another matter! I even found a third holding tank! More on that later!
Fair winds and Following Seas!
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