S&S 36 drain plug...?

Hello,

I believed that all S&S Swans had a bronze drain plug installed on the starboard side in the deepest part of the bilge. I have searched in vain for a drain plug on our 1967 Swan 36. I can find no trace of it, or any evidence it has been removed and the hole filled.

I suspect drain plugs were not in fact fitted to the earliest boats. Is this correct?

I intend to fit one - a great idea in a boat with such a deep bilge to keep her dry when ashore.

Thanks and regards,

Derek Fairley

'Lofna' 36/021 (formerly called 'Icon of Hamble' and 'Seamroige' - we have reverted to the original name)

Dear Derek,

When I purchased my boat, Swan 43, hull 003, there was a garboard drain plug installed but I was not convinved that it was the origianl.  In fact, I was very worried that it might actually come loose and sink the boat so I decided to replace it.  You mentioned that you plan to install a drain plug.  This is how I did it on my boat.

original drain, without plug, up close - scary

template to cut mortise for new drain plug

template attached to hull and ready for router

I cleaned the area aroung the original plug area completely;made the template to the exact size of the new graboard drain plug; attached the template to the hull and, using a router fitted with bushings, cut the mortise to the exact depth.  I drilled and tapped for machine screws and bedded the new drain plug housing in polysulfide.  Below is the finished product.

Garboard Drain Plug Fitted

Hi Christian,

Many thanks for your reply and photos - very much appreciated.

I have now sourced a flush-fitting bronze drain plug... I'll post an update once fitted!

kind regards,

Derek