1983 Catalina 30 MKI Tall Rig Restoration
IN THE BEGINNING
In 2019 the dream of owning a Catalina 30 MKI Sailboat was born. While I lived over 140 miles away from the boat I would eventually find, I searched listings all over Texas and had to decide on a location to relocate and start the re-fit of the boat that I wanted to invest my time into. This page is a story of the classic 1983 Catalina Tall Rig sailboat that I eventually purchased in 2020 and spent the next few years refitting into the vessel she is today.
I found her tucked away in a marina at Lewisville Lake, TX. She had survived some tropical storm damage to the stern and sides while moored there. After inspection of the mast, sails, standing rigging, diesel engine, interior condition and electrical components, I decided to purchase her and restore her condition to the original beauty that she once was in 1983. Obviously I was prepared to do all of the work myself.
2020 Catalina 30 Tall Rig Refit
In 2020, I began the repairs and reconditioning of several things to get her back in shape.
1. New batteries and inspection of the wiring behind the navigation panel.
2. Inspection of the through hull seacocks and relocating lines and repairs.
3. Engine maintenance, oil change, oil filters, belts, fuel filter and alternator wiring.
4. Shore power electrical inspection, re wiring and new outlets.
5. Sail inspection and repairs to some minor damage to the sails and sunbella covers.
6. Regluing the mainsail C30 logos.
7. Inspection and repairs of rigging and dock lines.
BELOW ARE SOME IMAGES OF THE DAMAGE UNDERNEATH THE PORT & STARBOARD DECALS.
My Resources
Finding the parts for a classic boat was the first step. I've researched all of the online sources, and I'm including some links to the sources of the parts that I used to do the refit. To get a list click the link below.
1983 Catalina 30 Hull & Transom Repairs
THE HULL WORK BEGINS
In 2021 to 2022, after getting the necessary permissions, I began the hull repairs. I purchased the fiberglass, marine resin, marine epoxy, gelcoat and etc. to start reforming the hull. It was prudent to use the proper PPE, tools, equipment and protective measures to ensure a safe working environment for myself and the lake's aquatic life. This work had to be done in small amounts over the next year when the weather allowed. Proper care was taken to be as environmentally friendly as possible while in the water. It was a long tedious process, but in the end paid off.
I filled the gouges, reformed the fiberglass damage and prepared the hull to accept the new gelcoat on the aft of the boat.
BELOW ARE SOME OF THE PHOTOS OF THE DAMAGE:
Fiberglass and Hull Reformation
