Oil change done

A bit of a problem removing the oil filter - had to puncture it with a screwdriver to get it moving . No sign of water leaking today - might take it for a run to see if the k seal is working. I did put some gasket seal around the water pipes to establish if that is where the leak was coming from. Just the fuel filter to do now - not much help on YouTube. The fish are starting to bite - it is only a matter of time till we catch one !

Our mooring gate appears to be redundant now

Due to the removal of the hedge at the nadee we are a bit open to unwanted visitors! The gate is now redundant - at least it is being shut now. 

Last attempt at water leak

Tried some k seal in the coolant to help with the water leak - still leaking - will leave for now but this is going to limit my cruising range. Managed a run to Mercia between showers to buy an oil filter - the new buildings are coming on well .

Weekend trip to branston water park

Uneventful trip to branston - boat ran well - still losing a little water from the water pump area - not sure where exactly the leak is coming from.

Had a couple of pints and nice bar meal at the riverside - sky sports available but not advertised . Finished off the night in the blacksmiths arms - nicely refurbished. Got a bit wet on the way back but not too bad. One thing I did notice was the increasing poor attitude of boaters - getting like driving a car atm - what next - boat rage!

Good and bad news

The stainless steel pipe that I had made to connect the pump and the thermostat worked fine with a liberal coverage of gasket sealer. 

Next jobs to do are oil change and fuel filter change , then ready for an Easter cruise.

The reassembly of the water pump and thermostat housing went well. I took the boat for a run and it was fine. On checking the area of the water pump I notice a small amount of moisture coming out of the pump pulley - no more than a drip . I will monitor it but I don't think it will be a major issue as long as I watch the coolant level.

Birdswood at cromford

We also had a walk along the remains of the nightingale arm which goes from the navigable section end to lea bridge.

The Birdswood trip boat - note quiet electric motor conversion - I think there are plans to use a horse to pull the boat

Gasket making for dummies v1.01

Mission accomplished - two gaskets made for the pump and thermostat housing - easier when you have the proper gear. Just need to find a replacement pipe now.