Salt & Tar · video

What this video covers

The crew of the wooden boat *Red Aviva* faces multiple maintenance challenges while anchored in La Cruz, Mexico. After returning a borrowed outboard motor to friends departing for a Pacific crossing, the host attempts to revive a 20-year-old spare engine, which remains unreliable despite cleaning efforts.3:47 Simultaneously, the vessel’s transmission exhibits shifting difficulties; the engine cycles through gears smoothly while off, but binds under load, leading the crew to suspect heavy bottom growth on the propeller as the primary cause.4:11 The boat is currently awaiting a scheduled haul-out to address hull maintenance and prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.7:52 During their stay, the crew identifies a neglected 28-foot Hagar, a George Buehler design, sitting as a lawn ornament in town.13:42 They also avoid swimming due to a local red tide algal bloom, which poses significant health risks.10:49 The crew continues to manage these technical setbacks while participating in local community events and planning for future repairs.

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