Sunday 12 February 2012

Workshop Sorted!!!!!

Well, after much toil and sweat, the workshop is finally ready to begin work on the Polly. Yes, I'm excited too!
As soon as finances permit (I spent more than planned on shelves and bookcases, in addition to some sundries to get everything organised), I am off to order the Plywood and timber. 
Here's some pics of the progress.





Monday 6 February 2012

Prices in Australia

Well, I have been doing the costings / ring-around for prices in preparation for buying raw materials. Holy crap, batman. Considering we have the strongest currency that we have had in a long time, prices here are ridiculous.


Ken makes mention of the total cost of plywood coming in at under USD$100. Well, here in Brisvegas, a single sheet of 6mm is around AUD$45! And that's not the good stuff.


A further shock came when I looked at the 'Titebond III' adhesive specified in the manual. Well, in the US it's $67 for TWO Gallons (7.5 Litres to English speaking people). The supplier here in Australia is asking AUD$59 for half of that. Talk about price gouging. Whilst I prefer to support the local bloke, if they're going to try to screw me, then stuff you CARBATEC. I'll buy it online. 


I shudder to think what the fibreglass (notice the correct spelling, my American friends?) is going to cost. Does anyone in QLD or Australia know of where to source epoxy resin and cloth from at a fair price? The plan is to fibreglass the entire bottom of the boat, and I don't want to buy the piddly little retail packs. Please help!


I have finally finished the job application process for the new job, so next weekend should be hopefully free of complications. With that in mind, I am planning on starting construction this weekend! Wish me luck!



Outboard Update

Well, I collected the outboard yesterday, and it's in good shape. I believe the problem with it is the throttle cam which acts upon the carb. Looks to be not affixed correctly to the throttle rod. Fingers crossed that it's any easy fix!!!


I did have terrible, terrible thoughts last night, and even looked at that auction site that rhymes with fee and gay for inflatable boats. Hmmmm, I could be on the water by next weekend! Had to tell myself to stop it. 'Stop it', I said. 


As previously mentioned, I really want to sail. Stink boats are faster, and more convenient, but not as satisfying. And especially no where near as satisfying as a home built boat! So, whilst the temptation was there, I stayed strong and kept the faith! STAY TUNED SPORTS FANS!

Saturday 4 February 2012

Workshop and Outboard #2

Well, managed to get an Johnson 9.9HP motor from ebay for 'the right price' last night.


Whilst the 9.9 is too big for the Pollywog, the intent is to clean her up a bit, and either on sell for a profit, or swap for a 4HP outboard. About to go and collect it now.


Spent several hours in the workshop yesterday. It's getting there! Still needs a touch more organising, so I purchased a couple of shelving units yesterday. Will assemble them this afternoon. 


The photo above was actually taken at the start of yesterday, and looks considerably better now! Disposed of some crap, got the mig welder trolley better sorted. 


Wish me luck with the outboard!