Still very windy from the North East so no sailing this morning. Decided to tackle the fuel system and stop the leaks. It takes me a while each time to get my head round what all the connecting fuel lines are really for.
To change the connection to the day tank and put in a new fuel line I have to empty the cockpit locker, lift the floor boards and empty that space – a major operation on its own. The old fuel lines are plastic now hardened and very difficult to remove and run the new lines in. I have to remove the steps into the cabin and remove the floor boards so getting from one location to the other is a real stretch lift and pull exercise. My Cambodian mobile team message me to say they have no handpieces for their trip on Monday can I get them new ones. From 9am to 3 pm I have about 30 messages from them and they call just as I get to the bottom of the locker or I am struggling in the bilge and I have to clean my hands. I have taken photos of all my store cupboards so I persuade the one new girl who can speak English to get the keys open up the store room and I talk her through which handpieces and connectors she can take as I look at my photos and describe where to find them. I am pleased to help but the timing could have been better.
Everything connected with the new filters and tank switched on – no leaks and I read over the instructions to bleed the fuel system “this is an automatic system of bleeding” they say – just disconnect one of the fuel hoses and switch on the power. To get from inside the engine compartment with the pipe to outside in the cockpit with the power switch is some distance and fuel pumps everywhere – not a single handed job. Anyway the engine works and no fuel leaks. By 4 I have finished and have a cold shower outside – I leave my shorts on as they are soaking wet with sweat and wash them as well.