Work on the engine continues. The following photo (from about 2012) shows the original engine box, in which the engine and its many components barely fit. When I reinstalled the exhaust system last November (CLICK HERE to review) I used new exhaust hose, but relied on measurements of the original pieces. In the original installation, however, the hose from the engine to the muffler ran slightly uphill, where the ideal is horizontal or slightly downhill. On the advice of my mechanic, I decided to make some changes.

Below is the installation last fall, which mimics the original installation. The photo was taken from under the cockpit and we are looking forward. I wanted to move the muffler forward and out away from the engine. I also wanted to shorten the short vertical section coming down out of the engine.

Shortening the vertical section was facilitated by shortening the vertical arm of the fiberglass elbow.

I built a teak-and-plywood platform for the muffler.

The longer hose in the photo below is the new horizontal piece, and the shorter is the piece that mimics the original installation.

The muffler platform is attached to the motor support with four screws. You can see two in the photo below.

Finally, looking forward from under the cockpit again.

Engine work will be on hold until I can meet with my mechanic again. In the mean time, there’s plenty else to do. A trip to St. Angelo Hardwood (Tiverton, RI) 24 board-feet of teak that will be used in hatches and doors.