matola

So I mentioned that I would give a short pic report here of the engine swap out, Firstly I must say that I am most grateful to all the people who turned up to offer help, mostly with lifting, It's a real credit to the boating community that so many were willing to chip in and help. So thanks to everyone, particularly Darren and Tony. After that, this is the first time I tried this and it was easier than I imagined, some small issues came in unexpected ways but were not impossible to overcome and I'd encourage anyone who's thinking of doing this themselves to give it a go. So choose a bridge with required weight limit and as little traffic as possible, Stonebridge is good as no one uses the manual lock. However the number of gongoozlers is high. The lift weight is way under a tonne and also a quick look at the bridge makes it clear that it can take considerably more than a tonne, I'd guess up to 10 at least. Strap over the bridge I beam and a chain hoist to lift. Had to angle it with another strap to clear the guttering, probably better to remove the gearbox in place and lift separately. Once lifted get boards underneath and to the side, where you'll need a hand to get it onto land. Take the chance to repaint underneath. The hardest lift was to clear the rails. Many thanks to all who helped. Lower into place and then spend considerable time to line up the gear and prop, took me maybe half a day to get right, but worth it. (push the plates up together and place feeler gauge to test alignment) Once in, start the tasks of reconnecting everything, Here I have finished the controls and fuel lines. Stand back and admire the shiny new (recon) unit. So once I have had a rest, it just remains to reconnect the loom and electrics and start up Once again many thanks to all who helped. Particularly Keith (Chief Engineer), Mary (Catering), Tony and Darren (Muscle) Still in Stonebridge along with my Chain hoist, if you need a hand let me know. Cheers Matt

Hi All It went fine, and the "new" engine is IN maybe soon it will run too. I'll update with some pics soon. Thanks Matt

This weekend i,m plannning to switch out my bmc 1.5 with a recon unit. I have my eye on a suitable bridge, where i can get my tool van alongside, and think i have most equipment available, chain hoist planks, dolly etc. Once i switch over the gearbox and alternator i think it should slot right in. Have you any tips that might make it all go a more smoothly? Thanks matt Oh and while its out i,ll paint the engine bay, any particular paint required ?

I passed last evening and the tap has indeed been removed once again, and now the toilet is also locked with a chain and a non services key padlock. Thanks CRT for the new tap at mile end, it has good pressure, but take a very long hose with you as many boats are moored up against it. While I don't want to accuse the new cottage owners, I cannot think of an alternative motive for the continued vandalism. It's clearly not metal thieves as the pipework has been replaced with plastic. Maybe it's not a shared water meter issue, but it just messes with their water pressure. A tap on the offside is surely a very sensible idea.

WHAT ? FFS From my OP - what could be the motive for this vandalism ?

Great Could they not put a "Aware of issue and pending Fix" notice. Anyway glad it's getting fixed Thanks CRT.

This is certainly a possibility. I haven't written to CRT, apparently this started a couple of weeks ago so I'd hoped they'll already be aware. London Taps:- Tottenham - Removed Stonebridge - Works but extermely low pressure - slow Victoria Park - Removed Angel - Refurbished and working (Still ?) Little Venice - Working ?

There are no houses nearby so I don't think it could be residents. It's not scrap metal scroungers, the wound was very specific and no pipes missing. Also the tap over the elsan point has also been removed, isn't this required to use the facility ?

No offence taken They do indeed still currently have the option to void the "fine" and write it off as a clerical error. Although they have not yet confirmed this is the direction they will take. If they decide to try to uphold the "fine" then I will wait for the recovery action to commence proceedings. Although, I see your point about not giving this option.

Both taps have been removed from Victoria Park Lock facilities, apparently after someone crimped the pipes ? I heard a boater made a temporary repair but this has also been removed. What could be the motive behind this vandalism ? How long do you think it will take CRT to restore their arsenal of London taps back up to 4 ?

Yes that's the current status.

Sorry, I'll try to make it clearer. I would fight this in court not to prove that my specific claim against the fine is valid, as I made an (admittedly verbal) agreement with them. The basis of my complaint would the the legality of the issuing authority.

For me the circumstances of the "fine" are in doubt, but not really significant in comparison with the legal ability to issue the fine.

Don't be overly worried about mooring in London, we've not seen much trouble since last spring in Victoria park. Take usual precautions of locking everything, and speak with your neighbours and enjoy London

I have notified them of them of the circumstances and that if they wish to proceed we will answer in court, they are considering their response.