Where Next?
Bob Williams
Tue 18 Jan 2022 22:48
Course: E by S Speed: 6 knots
Wind: S, F5 Sea: moderate
Swell: SW, 2 meters
Weather: overcast, cool
Day's Run: 146nm (135 miles of easting)
I am pleased to report that the wind veered into the SW overnight which allowed us to ease sheets a little and close reach down to the SE at a good speed such that we have managed to work our way back south close to 46 degrees. Now the wind has freshened from the south so we are close reaching to the east with a reef in the main and the jib rolled down to 70%.
One problem that arose yesterday is the control knob on the Hydrovane self-steering has fractured. The control knob effectively changes the gear of the self-steerer, changing the gain from low to medium to high or to neutral. I managed to glue the fracture together as a temporary fix and during the evening had a good fossick through all my bits and pieces to find something that would provide a longer term fix. Eventually I found two possible solutions, a two inch piece of ½ inch diameter stainless tube and a brass plumbing fixture. This morning I examined both options more closely and have opted for the brass fitting as it is relatively soft and only required a drill run through it to adapt it for the purpose. It has now been fitted and thus far is performing well. The self-steerer has a lot of miles to go and is a critical bit of kit but we still have the bit of stainless tube as a back up.
Last night Mark reported Coconut's position as about 70 nm SE of us. We close slowly and with the good run we have enjoyed last night I figure she must be within about 50 miles of us by now. It certainly adds interest to my day trying to track her down.
All is well.