Drivers Eye View

Almost looking like a working boat (I said almost).

The GRP instrument console has been painted; most of the instruments are installed (including a custom built boost gauge); The destroyer wheel has been modified to fit the spline steering box and awaits its leather rim cover.

Still a few holes to fill: The Log and Autopilot control heads will attach to the bulkhead; bottom right will house the stop cables, bottom left, the horn button (when I can find it - I bought a new one and put it somewhere safe!); in the middle where the Sumlog used to be, there'll be a Fairey wheel badge and I still need to build the other boost gauge (a story for another day).

If you look closely, you'll see the panel trim stuff. Looks great, but moves the console back just far enough to foul the steering wheel hub . Another mod to do.

[Now Playing: Signs of life, by Pink Floyd]

Old Kent Road Part 2

It's finally installed - apart from wiring.

The support strut is fitted and the serial number ID plate.

The sealant needs trimming with a scalpel, but work now moves onto the instrument panel and bulkhead. Hope this settled weather holds.

[Now Playing: Spinning Around - Kylie Minogue]

Starboard Steer Board

"Mirak" is finally reunited with her Starboard Rudder assembly.

The photo shows a closeup of the Butyl Rubber glop used to seal the bottom bearing into the hull. What it doesn't show is the hole needed in the drive to allow the assembly to line up with the hole in the hull. (see the photo album for that.)

As Mirak has two left hand propellors, the starboard rudder has a trim tab fitted to cancel the load on the Whitlock torque rod steering gear.

Anorak Alert: The term Starboard is believed to derive from the original name for a rudder, Steer Board, which was just an oar lashed to the right hand side of a boat or ship.