Gypsy Moth IV rebuild is running slightly ahead

by Sail-World NZL on 31 May 2006 The rebuilding of Gypsy Moth IV is making good progress in the Emirates Team NZ yard.

Working two shifts a day from early morning to midnight the 15 strong building team is slightly ahead of schedule, says lead skipper Richard Baggett.

As we saw on Monday, the damaged parts of the hull have been cut away and reskinning has begun. So far three of the six skins of African Mahogany have been re-laid. Each skin is about 4mm thick.

All the removable interior furniture has been removed and cleaned up.

The main bulkhead which had cracked and shifted has been replaced. All the chainplates have been removed, checked and replaced.

Unfortunately all the communications equipment was located close to the hole in the hull and suffered severe water damage after that part of the hull flooded while Gypsy Moth IV was on the reef. About NZD60,000 – 80,000 of damage was done to this equipment.

The keel will be removed. All the keelboats have been located and are or will be removed. These were still the original bolts from when Gypsy Moth IV was constructed 40 years ago. 'When all the bolts have been removed, she will be lifted off the keel', explained Baggett. 'We also have to refit the rudder which is being repaired at Wilsons.'

'There was a small amount of damage to the after end of the rudder, however keyways were all damaged due to the excess pressure put on the rudder when she was on the reef.'

Painting of the hull is expected to start soon. Meanwhile there are the usual 101 little jobs that have to be done as everything is checked, cleaned and dried, says Baggett.

For more information and how you can support the Gypsy Moth IV project see: www.gipsymoth.org