Fish Under Sail · video

What this video covers

Refitting the 38-ft sailboat *Sand Dollar* in Chiapas, Mexico, involves extensive structural and mechanical repairs after the owners salvaged parts from a donor vessel.0:42 The project requires grinding out deep fiberglass blisters, applying a new barrier coat, and addressing significant engine failures. The owners replace an unreliable electric lift pump with a mechanical version driven by the crankshaft and rebuild the fuel injection pump, which required precise timing and internal alignment. Because the engine lacked instrumentation, the crew installs new gauges to monitor RPM, voltage, and temperature to prevent overheating. The coolant tank, which suffered from a cracked neck, is repaired using high-heat resistant epoxy and a custom-fitted aluminum insert. Logistics are complicated by the inability to source acetone locally, forcing the crew to rely on alternative cleaning methods for fiberglass prep. The owners also manage ongoing electrical repairs and fuel system maintenance to clear algae from the 110-gallon tanks.

Boats in this video

More from Fish Under Sail

*Channel Update* - Big Things Coming, but First Going QuietSep 20268 Months of Hell — Splashing Sand Dollar at LastAug 2026Repairing a Crack in the Keel — This Had to WorkJul 2026Will the Engine Start? First Test after Hydrolock RebuildJul 2026

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