Taming the lazarette and unplugging the drains
Issue 31 : Jul/Aug 2003
During nine years spent sailing a 25-foot Yamaha sailboat in the waters of the Puget Sound, I have found space to be at a premium. Most items on my boat must have at least two functions.
The lazarette on my boat runs the width of the transom. This storage space is great, but the contents shift from side to side as the boat heels. Since I store a spare container of diesel fuel, a gallon of alcohol for the stove, fuel additives, and other flammables along with deck-cleaning equipment in this space, this shifting is a problem.
I purchased two small plungers from the hardware store. I placed the plungers in the lazarette, handles together and rubber cups out. I then marked the handles where the plungers gripped the sidewall. Then I drilled two holes in the plunger handles at the marked spots and fastened the handles together with stainless-steel bolts and screws.
Now I pack the fuel in the lazarette; push my plunger/divider against the walls, and the fuel and flammables are held firmly in place. It helps if the walls of the lazarette are slightly sloped, as the plungers can grip the walls well.
Now for the second use. The cockpit seats slope inward and collect rainwater, which is dispersed by 1⁄2-inch drains. The anchor well has the same arrangement. These drains often clog with debris. I simply use my plunger/divider to unplug the drains.
Thank you to Sailrite Enterprises, Inc., for providing free access to back issues of Good Old Boat through intellectual property rights. Sailrite.com
