Tug Jupiter

Last weekend we managed to button up the temporary deck repairs on the new steel work around the ladder, and get it waterproofed using elastomeric roof coat and canvas. Very similar to the tried and true painted canvas method, but with a rubberized coating. This will do well to keep the water out while we make plans for the full refurbishment of the boat deck, which are expecting to get started on in the fall, following the construction of a marine shrink wrap shelter over the upper portion of the tug to keep her dry while the deck is deconstructed down to the original stuff, and then refurbished correctly. This will involve much wood replacement, including the wood deck beams that rest atop the steel beams, and most likely additional steel work as well, and refurbishment of the entire overhang and handrails. The boat deck will be about 2" lower than it is now when completed, as all the extra layers of plywood and waterproofing get removed for good! That will be the time to tighten up her curves on the overhang as well, removing many pieces of flat wood that were used for patching over the years with properly cut and beaded quality lumber.

We also managed to snag a ~260sf lot of slightly imperfect tongue and groove beadboard that was being culled by a local lumber yard (thank you Rider's Lumber of Philadelphia!) Which will go a long way towards repairing our lifejacket boxes, wheelhouse roof, focsle bulkhead, and overhead trim in the head.

Refrigeration Tech and Equipment needed! We are trying to get Jupiter's built in refrigeration running again. We have a volunteer with automotive AC experience, but not refrigeration that is open to learning if we can't find a specialist willing to help. The condensing unit is gone completely, the line set was left open years ago, and the evap unit is questionable. As we understand, the system had a leak that prevented it from holding a charge for long. At this point, we probably want to replace everything, but we don't know where to start. The condensing unit location is changing, so the line set will be shorter, and it's also going to run on AC instead of DC as it had previously.

Someone who is willing to volunteer and take over would be preferred. We are also looking for an equipment donation or deal if possible. Used equipment would be fine!

The fridge comprises only the 2 middle doors in the built in unit. The other 2 are storage only.

Have you been considering volunteering on Tug Jupiter? Tomorrow, Saturday June 1st is shaping up to be a great day to come check us out! First time's free with the old try before you buy offer, after which we ask you to join the Philadelphia Ship Preservation Guild, which opens up Barkentine Gazela to you as well, both at the same location!

Lunch is served aboard Gazela, $4 suggested donation, or you may feel free to bring your own. Refrigeration and a microwave are available on both vessels, as well as potable water. Restroom facilities are on Gazela only at this time.

Last weekend we got all the holes drilled in the steel and got the wood deck beams bolted in. This weekend, we need to get the new deck sheathing cut and installed, the weatherproofing in (elastomeric roof coating and canvas), and hopefully get the new fascia boards installed and start thinking about the handrail renewal. There is also lots of scraping, painting, cleaning, rust busting, plumbing and mechanical work, and other similar jobs, so something for every skill level from zero to pro!

Work day starts ~9am, and goes til ~5pm. People sometimes hang out after the work day to socialize, so feel free to join if it suits you! Parking can be found at the Penns Landing lots, and is $20 per car. As a paid guild member, there is a discount so that parking is $5 *most* of the time. Either parking lot location at Market St or Lombard Circle will get you there following a walk by the river. Any questions, direct message us at any time, and you can also get a direct phone/text number to the volunteer restoration coordinator, Christopher Simmons who will be on site.