The engine

We've had a look at the early-mid seventies Stuart Turner R66 engine. We had some concerns about it for a number of reasons: it looked like someone had tried to start it and madde some wiring alterations; the fact that it is an inboard petrol engine, with its inherent dangers; it is also a two-stroke petrol engine so we wondered if it could be a bit noisy...
But it looks okay, there don't seem to be any major oil leaks and the pistons and rings look relatively unscored. And really a lot of small outboard engines are two stroke, so we're going to stick with it and see how it goes when we've givien it a service and a rewire.

Upholstery

We've been looking at fabrics for the dinette and sofa cushions, which both convert into beds. The front cabin might be quite clean and minimal, with the main (back) cabin being a bit bolder. We wanted something bright and breezy but really hardwearing for when the kids clamber all over everything. We've been looking in Martin-Day Fabrics in Sandiacre, very helpful! So we're planning on a textured charcoal which hints of the 1950s, and a thick almost corduroy red for the back cabin (it's somehow reminiscent of Wayfarer bus seats!) We'll have piping in a contrast colour. We've spoken to a highly recommended local upholsterer, who we may have to keep secret, about putting things together...more to follow...

Caravan

We've been inspired by a lovely book about vintage caravans. It's tempting us to consider buying one to use as a playhouse in our garden. But on with the boat...!

Into the shed

The boat has been moved into our workshop where it is nestling next to the widebeam we are currently working on. We've begun ripping out the interior. The panels will be painted and the carpets will be replaced with solid washable flooring panels.