Mechanical issue update
After Tow Boat US arrived we discussed options and decided to simply re anchor further from the bridge and attempt repairs. My easy job has been to monitor any potential dragging anchor. We had 2 other anchors rigged and ready.
The problem turned out to be a broken engine mount and the engine getting out of driveshaft alignment sheared the 4 bolts attaching shaft to transmission. Walter drilled and removed the broken bolts and has also replaced the engine mount. Once alignment looks good we will start the engine before reattaching the shaft and see that the transmission functions properly. If all is good he will reattach the shaft to transmission. It's likely we will stay anchored here tonight.
With the assistance of the tow boat it took 3 attempts before the anchor dug in. We were lucky that it caught earlier during the crisis. Just as we were about to go under the draw bridge forward engine engagement failed and Walter steered us to port out of the channel steering with just our forward momentum and told me to drop anchor. Earlier we had noticed problems in reverse and I was already in position at the windlass just incase. It's good the anchor dug in as we were in a 2 knot current flowing toward the bridge. We waited for the tow less than 100 yards from the bridge.
Top photo our emergency anchoring just up current from the bridge.
Contact tow to anchor further from the bridge.
Second now anchor ready to deploy.
Candace swimming to check for Amy rope wrapped around the driveshaft. There was none.
Floor boards removed for access to shaft/transmission connection and rear engine mounts.
Posted with BlogPress on iPhone
The problem turned out to be a broken engine mount and the engine getting out of driveshaft alignment sheared the 4 bolts attaching shaft to transmission. Walter drilled and removed the broken bolts and has also replaced the engine mount. Once alignment looks good we will start the engine before reattaching the shaft and see that the transmission functions properly. If all is good he will reattach the shaft to transmission. It's likely we will stay anchored here tonight.
With the assistance of the tow boat it took 3 attempts before the anchor dug in. We were lucky that it caught earlier during the crisis. Just as we were about to go under the draw bridge forward engine engagement failed and Walter steered us to port out of the channel steering with just our forward momentum and told me to drop anchor. Earlier we had noticed problems in reverse and I was already in position at the windlass just incase. It's good the anchor dug in as we were in a 2 knot current flowing toward the bridge. We waited for the tow less than 100 yards from the bridge.
Top photo our emergency anchoring just up current from the bridge.
Contact tow to anchor further from the bridge.
Second now anchor ready to deploy.
Candace swimming to check for Amy rope wrapped around the driveshaft. There was none.
Floor boards removed for access to shaft/transmission connection and rear engine mounts.
Posted with BlogPress on iPhone
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