Blog 22nd May 2919
Nightsong
Sat 22 May 2010 15:05
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Dear Blog
Noon position 34.50N 54.40W - note we have changed
time by 1 hour so the run is only 23 hours noon to noon - still we have done 153
nm since noon yesterday which ain't bad considering what I will just
describe.
Today has been what can only be described as a
typical Nightsong day - broken down again! Yesterday afternoon and evening went
very well. The wind was still S force 4/5 and we cracked along at 7 to 9 knots
depending on whether it was 13 knots of wind or 17 knots - this makes a big
difference to Nightsong's speed. We even put the Code 0 up at 1800 hrs and were
creaming along overtaking a 50fter or two (still the odd yacht in sight). We
furled and took down the Code 0 at 2300hrs and were still progressing well under
main and jib until about 0600 hrs this morning despite intermittent
showers and squalls. Then the wind died (as expected - grib forecasts v good)
and I tried the engine.- in gear. The vibration started immediately and Nick
reckoned the shaft was moving 5mm each way. So sadly the flexible coupling
bolt shearing was an effect of the vibration not the cause. I have emailed
The Great Garry to ask him what he thinks but it is the w/e. I reckon either a
blade of the prop has broken off (I will check if we go slowly enough) or the
bearings have gone - think it very unlikrly we have bent the shaft since it is
4cm diameter and we haven't hit anything. Or else the rope cutter mod that Garry
did is causing it.
So we have no engine and are now drfting along
at 1 knot - this likely to last until Monday night so our hopes of a 10 day
run are dashed. Might briefly use the engine to dock at Horta but another
drydocking is essential before I go on.
Then I looked up at the jib this morning and we
have split it - a long 2 ft tear caused by delamination which I am half way
through repairing - having a break for lunch and a bit of
relaxation
 Garry thinks Elvstrom might make me a new jib but I
doubt I will get it before Spain
Weather has improved so all philosophical. Simon is
better - sea legs coming. He's got a lot of washing up to make up
for!!
AJB 22nd May
2010
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