This section includes a library of technical categories and project summaries culled from the Forums, individual experiences, and class specifications. We are constantly looking for articles from you, the boat owners, about projects you have done on your boat. We welcome particularly relevant articles as well from magazines and other sources that you may have found useful in your boat projects. Send your contributions to seaspriteassociation@yahoo.com.
Thank you.
I just got a 1980 sea sprite 23 and I have a lot of questions. Would anyone be able to point me to a video or a description of this boat and all the mechanics and rigging? I want to better understand the bilge pump also. thank you
Cutlass bearing replacement for a 1982 Sea Sprite 34.
During the short-haul on my boat survey, the surveyor
examined for excessive wear between shaft and bearing and discovered some play/movement of the shaft. The surveyor concluded that the cutlass bearing needs to be replaced.
I’d appreciate any info on replacing the cutlass bearing. The yard manager was looking for bolts where the shaft extends from the hull. Not seeing any, the yard manager wondered if the bolts had been glassed over.
Also, the surveyor recommended repacking the stuffing box.
Thanks
Spinnaker Head Placement
I have a Sea Sprite 23 Weekender built in 1974. I would like to properly set up the boat for sailing with a spinnaker. I’ve installed 3/16″ chain plates and tabernacle mast step with robust adjacent hull and deck reinforcement, and sub deck framing to handle higher stress levels. I’ve also done the same with the spreaders, backstay and jumper stays including jumper struts and tangs.
What might be the best height to mount the spinnaker halyard for maximum sail area, regardless of racing rating, taking into account halyard chaff on the jumper stays and stress on the mast?
The mounting could be using a mast hound, or mounted to the truck of the mast, or any other suggestions that may have worked in your experience, or that you may have seen, sailed with or envision.
The spinnaker could be either symmetrical or asymmetrical, and might include a deck sliding bowsprit.
I intend to use the spinnaker in light airs under 15 knots, as this boat springs downwind in grand style on a stronger breeze, sailing wing and wing.
I recently acquired in 1980 Sea Sprite weekender hull number 716. There is no attachment point on the mast for the spinnaker/whisker pole. I need to know where to install the attachment point. Is it a matter of measuring so many inches up off the deck?
Thank you.
I have a ss23 built in 1976. I haven’t seen any signs of Keel problems, but think the keel bolts have never been replaced or inspected. Is there any history of problems with these?
You’ll be in the mud at moon low tide. If it’s only mud it won’t hurt the boat but you’ll be stuck. If it’s rocky you may ding up the keel. If it’s an early boat, the external lead can be reshaped. I have a ’67 and have a tradition of running aground annually. Very little or any damage but I like to count on 3.5 ft. of H2O.
Walter
I am looking to buy a 23 weekender. I had the spec sheets up on your website but now I can’t get back to them? Frustrating. Anyway, I remember it said that the boat needs 3 feet draft. I just measured the water at my dock at a full moon dead low tide as 34 inches. Can I get away with it?
Thanks.
Hi, Sharron:
Try asking this question on the Forum.
Carter