Two Albin 27 questions (for those that have one)

[hetek]

Hi All -

Just took a look at an Albin 27 AC yesterday.

One thing I noticed but never knew - the "sandshoe" is wood? I believe that's what it is called. It's the extension of the bottom edge of the keel that runs aft to support the bottom end of the rudder. This is wood? The one I saw looks like oak. I have to admit I expected something like bronze.

Secondly, In my haste I neglected to take a crucial measurement: The head. As with all boats this era, the head could use some "freshening". I was thinking of installing one of those self-contained types made by Dometic (no, not a port-o-potti). The 9 1/2 gal holding tank is the base, but it measures 18 7/8" wide by 19 1/4" deep and 20 5/8" high. It would certainly take alot of work out of replacing all those 25 year old sanitation hoses. Problem is that it may not fit. I'm looking for three dimensions. the platform the head bolts down to (depth and width, looking at the head), and how far the platform is above the floor. Almost forgot: Late model style with the head next to the sink.

So...

Sandshow is wood? Yes___ No ___ other (specify) ___________
Head Platform Depth ___"
Head Platform Width ___"
Platform Above Floor ___" (this dimension needed to be sure my son can "make it over the rim", if you know what I mean)

No need to print and fax. A minute or two with a tape measure and a simple reply would suffice. And my sincerest thanks.

Future Albin owner -
hetek

[Dave]

My 1988 27 also had a wooden sandshoe, rotted out so had it replaced with a piece of solid aluminum about three years ago, so far so good. I will try and get those head measurements for you shortly.

[Don from Mystic]

My 83 is barefoot (no shoe), an 84 near me has the oak one. Dont let it concern you, pretty standard, trouble free, design.

[hetek]

Thanks Dave and Don -

I'm not saying wood is bad... just unexpected. Every other one I've seen was bottom painted so I never knew.
Thanks for spending the time with the tape measure.

Don: Mystic, CT, perhaps? Might you be going to the AOG Rendezvous in Essex?

- Hetek

[Don from Mystic]

BTW, I replaced my origional head, tank, and plumbing last year. I used PVC pipe/cemented, and at the ends, transitioned with a very short piece of hose.Pvc is easy to work with and sooo much less expensive than quality "odor proof" hose. The tank was a Todd from ebay (an overun model that fit fine) and the head TMC from Georgia also an ebay seller and nice people to work with (bought HD wiper motors from them as well for my 27).

FYI many of the early fiberglass hulls had full keels (like the Albin) made from oak (Trip Angler was one)

[Dave]

From the floor to bottom of base 8", to toilet seat 20", base is 18" wide and 15" deep

[Fortunate]

I have the wood skeg as well. Haven't had any issues with it.

[hetek]

Thanks for the measurements, Dave.

Looks like "plan B" will have to take effect as the base just isn't large enough for the self-contained unit. No problem, though.

The wood seems like the norm. I just never knew. Thanks for the replies.