The rubber 'drip-less' seal/boot now just emits a very fine mist when running - probably a thimbleful an hour. Thanks for the tip. I have disconnected the hose that feeds water to the stern tube and have a Beneteau repair kit on order. Really happy now it stays dry.

Yeah that's the place all right. I'll give it a try - want to keep a dry & clean bilge here on the river. Thanks for the tip!

It sounds like you've done very well.

Shaft drive leak? You mean where the shaft comes out of the rubber stuffing box? A drinking straw of grease inserted between the shaft and the rubber can fix that. Squeeze the rubber between thumb and forefinger and the rubber on the side pop out far eniough to insert the straw.

Mark

The seller was very conscientious. There was a slight leak at the shaft drive (I guess its lubricated with water and has it's own through hull). He had it fixed, and in the course the mechanic end-up breaking one part and noticing corrosion in the piston head. He ended up replacing a number of engine parts in the process and spent a tidy sum making sure it was A-OK. There's still a small leak at the shaft but at least its been looked at by a pro and will suffice until the next engine service.

Well it's named Lone Star, somewhat appropriate for someone such as me. Wotname might take a sail with me and lend some support.

Enjoyed your single-handling video. Thanks for writing back,

Mike

Congratulations!!
What have you called her?
You will enjoy it a lot, but might find the first few weeks that the boat seems huge. Don'tt worry. You will get used to it in no time

Just go out and have fun and don't worry if you encounter a problem. Most problems sort themselves out soon

Mark

Hey Mark, wanted to let you know I finally took the plunge (?) and bought my Beneteau - an '98 Oceanis 311 - back here in Perth. Next thing up - learning to sail ~