Fitting-out of NB Calbourne started!

After the boat had been rolled out of the build shed into the DIY bay, it suddenly became possible to start on some of the basic fitting out. There was a period of about 3 weeks where the space in the shed was available before the next booking, so it was a case of cracking on, putting in very long days to get the most done in the time available. With launch day set for 11th October, the pressure was on!

I'd found that the most cost-effective way to ballast the boat, was to use high density concrete blocks. These weigh in at around 20Kg each, so two pallets of 72 made 2.8 tonnes.

The blocks dropped in neatly between the bearers. I had calculated that nine extra blocks were needed on the port side to counter the weight of the battery bank and other items. Next job was to fix the crossways battens to the bearers to clear the top of the blocks, then further lengthwise ones. This gives a good support for the floor and gives a 30mm air gap for bilge ventilation. Note the additional battens in the area where the cooker will go!

Next, in with the plywood sub-floor. The cooker is now on rollers, pending movement to its final position. It's very heavy!

At the stern, the prop shaft and prop have been installed:

Stop cocks and fuel lines have been fitted to the massive fuel tank in the bow. The fuel lines, which are PVC-coated 10mm copper tube, have been run down the length of the boat in very hard PVC tube to resist abrasion. 

The service batteries - twelve 840Ah 2V cells, wired in series, have been installed in a custom-made steel battery box. The batteries are fitted with auto-venting and auto-watering systems. The starter batteries are on the opposite side.

Plywood inserts have now been fitted to all the doors, including the Potter's locker, where the generator will be housed.

I'll cover the installation of the gearbox and alternator in the next blog!