Chrysler Sailors Forum

Hi all,
I just got notification from the town that I got a mooring. So I'm wondering what I need to kit out my c22 for the spring.

In particular, do I need an automatic bilge pump? And on a c22, where in the world does it go? I don't seem to have an access to any space under the interior cabin floor.

Should I be looking at depth finders? Any other clues for a mildly clueless noob sailor?

Thanks,
Chris

Hi Chris,
First and formost,

Take a boating class. United States Power Squadren offeres high quality classes free except the cost of material.

Coast Guard auxiliary also offers high quality classes but I do not know the cost!

If a boating class is not available in your area, find a copy of 'Chapman Piloting & Seamanship' . I believe the 64th edition is current. Read it.


Now,
Go over your list of safety items. Does your wonderfull new toy pass inspection? Legal and personal?

Check your local laws but you should at least have:

1) Life jackets to fit all persons on board.
We have personal life jackets to fit each crew member meaning my wife, daughter, and me. Personally fit and labeled. we also carry extra life jackets. Since I take folks for hire, I even have class 1 or off shore life jackets. Make sure your life jackets are "Coast Guard Approved" If not, don't use or count them as life jackets.

2) Day/Night signal devices. Noteably flares. I carry both a flare gun and hand held flares. Flare guns are fantastic but the flare does not burn long. If some one is not looking at you and you shoot a flare gun, they may miss it. Use it only when you think someone is looking your way. Otherwise flares. Make sure they are good for day and night use!!!!

3) Noise signal maker. We carry a ships bell, an air horn, and whistles on each life jacket on Destiny. Air horns for the 22'ers.

4) Throwable floatation. Horse shoe, ring, or even some seat cushions. Make sure they are labled as floatation devices.

5) Fire extinguisher. Get one that is current, full, and is rated for A, B, and C fire types.

6) VHF Radio. Now you may need to check your local use and see if they are normally used for ships communications. If not then at least a cell phone or CB for communications should there be a need.

7) Small medical kit with the basics plus an special needs items. We do not use ours often but when we do we are glad we have it!!!!!!

Now then, if your boat is safe and sound, we can talk about other things.

1) A nautical chart of your area would be wonderfull if available.
2) Compass is nice to have and nice to know how to use.
3) Anemometer. Or a device to tell wind speed. I have the fancy digital devices on Destiny but on the 22'ers I use a ten dollar non electronic device from West Marine. Very nice and cheap.

4) Depth finder!
West Marine sells them on sale for under 100 bucks regularly. Why not!
Most transducers can transmit directly through our hulls on a 22'er! Yep! Pretty cool! You will loose resolution at 150-200 feet but in my opinion, who cares! If I have 150' of water under my keel I'm happy!

5) I have bilge pumps in ALL my boats.


Well, there is a start anyway!
Please do not forgo saftey items for cool items. When buying a saftey item get the best you can afford. My example there is I ride a motorcycle daily. The likelyhood of an accident with serious injuries on a motorcycle are far greater than in a car. Do you think I buy a ten dollar helmet? NO way! My head or life for that mater is worth more to me.

Thanks for the reply, and I'm on my way to covering all of the safety related items, as well as finding a course for the spring.

With regard to the bilge pump, ... um ... where does it go on a c22? In the cabin, it seems I have at least a foot more under my feet, but no way to get down there.

now to the question..........................there is no place to put it that all the water will run too on the 22. When your not around i would just put it in the floor near the access for the keell brackets, this is the low point. When you go to use the boat just stow it for when needed. I bilt a small bilge on mine that will catch the water if the rudder post should leak but I keep an extra pump on board for the lower areas. You can see it here http://www.byershome.net/_Boat/Chrysler/Sump/Sump.htm . The automatic pump is under the small deck and can be access though two small hatches.

Oh thanks Banshi,
Now I have another project LOL!


Very nice set up! I like it and hope you don't mind if I copy it!
This springs list is just getting bigger!

Scott