i finally got her

Posted by Daddy (ymgalvez1969@…>)

I finally picked up the Freedom 21! It is a 1983 shoal keel sailboat
with trailer. The boat looks pretty good for an '83, but it does
need work. I hope it aint a money pit!
I got in my driveway two nights ago and it rained yesterday so I
havent been able to do a lot of research on the condition of the
sails, lanyards, etc.
The lanyards are old, probably original, as are the sails. The
underwater part of the hull is dirty, and does not clean easily. The
mast is missing a sleeve(?) where the mast slides connects to the
boat.

Here are my questions:
How important is that sleeve, and where do I get a new one?
About how much will new lanyards (100%) cost?
The mast has a slight bow in it, is that ok?
Does the mast need a cap on the top?
How do I clean the grime off the hull without damaging the
fiberglass?
What is gel coat? And should I get it put on the boat.

I am so excited! I remember sailing this boat as a kid and look
forward to sharing sailing with my family. I would rather fix her
than sell/dump her. I just cant afford costly repairs. Routine and
scheduled maintenance will not be a problem. The traier is in
excellent condition, other than being rusted. I towed the trailer
with the boat on it from Texarkana to San Antonio almost averaging
60 - 70 mph with zero problems.

And my biggest concern - SHE HAS NO NAME OR HOME PORT! Is it bad
luck to sail her otherwise? I think someone said it was. And, what
do I need to do to name her, ie registering etc? I have never been
on the owning side of sailing before.

I have been told sailing is going nowhere fast while spending large
amounts of money. I would hate to give up on sailing this fine
vessel if its gonna cost an arm and a leg to get her lake ready.

Thank you for your help with my dumb questions,