cal 29 topping lift

I encourage you to read of watch some videos by the sailing pros (not u-tube), in the area you live in you can take the US Power Squadron classes and get some basics of safety, responsibility and even etiquette. could save your boat and those of others you may "come in contact with". Your kid will thank you for that. on the subject of topping lift, we had Butler Rigging (Berkeley) replace our old rope one with that silver colored strong lightweight material. worked great, at least you won't be swept by the boom if you drop sail. maybe some other CP harbor users (ask Scott) can show you some different ways to approach the entrance. on fuel cleanup, we use gas but there are "fuel polishers" that can "clean" your diesel, commercial guys have that done. your tank is small if it is still under the cockpit floor and has the fill right there, you may need a new O-ring, water gets in easily.you could handpump empty it and try to vacuum up the particles (rust, dirt, critters that grow in diesel) AFTER it is drained. also I put a scupper antibackflow device (west marine?) that screws on the outside and won't let water get back in to the cockpit floor when the prop digs in and lowers the stern.there also are fuel additives that discourage critter growth in diesel. full tanks discourage water condensation within.happy sailing (buy a good life insurance policy for your kid meanwhile). I'm sure you will improve quickly. this site has lots of ideas that have worked for us, helen