John's G*R*E*A*T suggestion!

Posted By: Bob Pr. S2 6.7 #81, "The TARDIS", Topeka, KS
Date: 7/4/04 1:19p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

John Cunningham recently sent me an e-mail that said: I think we really could use a 'new and potential owner FAQ' that had quick answers to the most common questions. This shouldn't be something that has the detailed answer to any one question, but gives a brief summary answer and reference to where more information can be found. A couple of examples below. These are for illustration only.... Q: My Lifting Keel is stuck/broken/jammed! A: This is a common problem on older boats, usually because the lower block has corroded or jammed. Lines can break as well. If your line is still connected to the keel you may be able to use a boatyard winch, or have the boat lifted and lowered on the keel to force it up... etc. etc. etc. For more information see 'Lifting Keel' in our articles database . Q: Rudder Problems! A: Grounded rudders can cause significant damage to the hull as well as the rudder assembly. To prevent this many owners use wooden rudder pegs rather than steel pins. See 'Transom Problems' in this FAQ, as well as the 'Transom' article in our database . Q: Where can I get part X / Y / Z ? A: Try our online parts database . If the part is not listed, there is still a high chance another member has had the same problem and may have suggestions or information - post an inquiry on the forum. I think that's a GREAT idea, John -- what do the rest of you think? I suggest it makes most sense to go over the posts we have and make a list of questions that often get asked (such as those John mentioned) as well as the URL (address link) for where the answer to is. Do we have any volunteers to scan, say, 6 months of old posts and make a list of common questions and helpful answers? This particular portion of our BB started on Feb. 2, 1999. (An earlier portion I've saved most of in archive files.) If we had ELEVEN volunteers to read the posts in just a 6 month period, we could easily survey that time span. No experience needed; it's a great way to expand your knowledge of our boats. It would be such a BIG help to our class and future and present members. PLEASE volunteer. (If we get 22 people - then it's only about 3 months each!)