I own a 1984 Mac 25. I've done various repairs and maintenance myself and feel that the boat was originally built very well. If you are handy with tools and know some fiberglass technique there is probably nothing that cannot be repaired or upgraded. If the boat is reasonably sound and the keel and ...

On my Mac 25 I pull the keel up when moored so it does not incur unwarranted wear swinging side to side and "clunk-clunking" as the boat rides the waves. If you are on the boat while on a mooring, having the keel down stabilizes the boat, as long as you don't mind the clunking sound. I've ...

As far as I know the baby stays are a standard part of the rigging (need a photo to make sure what you are talking about for sure). Before you go to a lot of effort to adjust your current standing rigging, you may want to consider replacing all the standing rigging with slightly up-sized wire rope o...

Harbor Freight also has the winch you need. It is a brake winch. For sails, check out Judy B. at Hyde Sails.

I know the original post was quite some time ago. I own a 1984 Mac 25. As far as I know, there is nothing to hold the keel in the up position other than the cable and brake winch. It sounds to me like the winch itself may be badly corroded. If you try squirting the winch with a penetrating oil, make...

Regarding Haiku's directions, I agree with the general procedure but do not use silicone caulk. The chainplates are highly loaded under sail and their constant flexing will cause the silicone sealer to lose its adhesion. Use polysulfide sealant or there is a hybrid sealant called Life Caulk. It is m...

In response to a couple of Abruzzi's questions: I too am a Macgregor M25 owner. I do not know what the shroud and backstay/forestay tension values should be, but I can say the following from experience and advice from knowledgeable sources: 1. Do not tension the shrouds and stays too tightly as it c...

About the day sailing reply -- yeah, no need for lights during day, but I'm planning on anchoring and overnighting where allowed, and what if I have to take shelter while one of our wild and crazy thunderstorms passes and I can't get back on the lake until dark?

So, what are your initial plans to deal with the electrical? I'd like to get mine functional for legal purposes so I can at least get the boat on the water. I was thinking if nothing else, go with portable, battery powered LED lights (for all lighting).

Hello. I'm a new sailor and a new owner of a '85 MacGregor 25, not much used, but not well cared for the last few years. I already know I have to refinish the swing keel, and it appears the electrical system needs total retrofit. Anyone out there who can suggest the best way to set up my electrical/...