Sailing Zephyr · video

What this video covers

The crew of Zephyr completes two major upgrades in New Bern, North Carolina, before departing for a southern sailing passage.0:28 To replace worn-out salon seating, they commission custom cushions using Revolution Performance Fabrics, a bleach-cleanable material chosen for its durability and resistance to pet-related stains.6:36 They retain the original vinyl backing to prevent moisture buildup on the timber base and replace rusted metal zippers with larger plastic alternatives.4:53

To address the difficulty of lifting a new, heavier dinghy motor onto the davits, the crew installs a 6:1 mechanical advantage pulley system using Lewmar 60mm triple blocks sourced from Defender.8:52 The setup utilizes a cam and becket configuration, requiring a specific threading pattern to ensure the line aligns correctly with the cam cleat.15:17 The new blocks significantly reduce the physical effort required to hoist the tender.16:34 The project concludes with a successful test of the lifting system, confirming the increased mechanical advantage.17:30

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