Re: Cal 29

I'm the former co-owner of 1969 Cal 29 #132 (then "Pentaquod"). We restored the boat from keel to masthead (including a replacement mast when we lost the original due to a failed shroud turnbuckle.) We gutted the interior, replaced both bulkheads, added an enormous holding tank in the forepeak, rewired everything, and more. Our work and ambition paled in comparison with David "Wilkie" Owen's efforts, however. Some of our projects used to be posted on the Web, but I can't find them anymore. I'd be happy to answer any questions, if I can, and share photos. Fitting a submersible in the bilge sump can be done, but it's fussy work. Some other Cal 29 owners simply filled that cavity with foam and then glassed over the top. It reduces the bilge capacity but makes it far easier to arrange the bilge pumps. As for matching original equipment, I wouldn't bother. Start replacing light fixtures with LEDs. Don't worry about making holes for port lights larger or smaller; it's not difficult (especially if you've already managed to replace the fuel tank). Do take the time to rewire any suspect runs - we had some 12 volt runs using standard household AC lamp cord - and consider relocating the panel altogether. We built a spiffy new one over the starboard quarterberth, next to the galley, which made wiring and operation a whole lot easier. Fair winds, Alfred Poor 1973 Tartan 34C #288 "Jambalaya"

I have a Cal 29 in the Berkeley marina that I've been cleaning up and getting back to good condition. There were 2 Cal 29s the were sold for scrap at the Nelsons auction in Alameda last week. Actually 1 sold for $100 (with a good diesel) and the other one didn't sell at all. You might want to go by there and see if you caould buy the other one for parts. Only problem is you have to buy the whole boat, not just the parts you want. I also know a could people that dispose of junk boats legally. Don't know what the charge though. Curtis Brown Bravada