Photo 39 Hatch storage

TABLE

The hatch over the left front bunk compartment serves as a table that clamps to the mast post. The table can be used at any height or position. Be sure you tighten the thumb screws securely, or your coffee may end up in your lap.

BOOM VANG

The optional vang is used to take the twist out of the mainsail and is very important for good performance. The hardware is just like the mainsheet, and attaches to the mast and boom as shown in the following photo.

Photo 40 Boom vang

SELF-RIGHTING CHARACTERISTICS

With sails rigged to the mast and boom, the water ballast tank full, and the masthead pulled to the level of the water, the boat, when released, should return to an upright position. With virtually any sailboat, it is possible for the belly of the sails to trap enough water to hold the boat down on its side if the sail control lines are not released. In the event of a knockdown, release all control lines to prevent this possibility. In rough seas, it is possible for waves to enter the cabin through hatches if the boat is held on its side. While sailing in rough weather, it is advisable to keep all hatches closed and secured.

FOAM FLOTATION

With the normal gear and crew, the MacGregor 19 has sufficient solid foam flotation blocks to keep the boat afloat in the event the cabin fills. When completely filled with water, the boat will be relatively unstable, and can roll over. Do not remove the foam flotation blocks from the interior of your boat under any circumstances.

POWERING

The boat is designed for an outboard motor of no more than 40 horsepower. Do not use a larger engine.

With one person aboard, and the water tank empty, the boat will go about 25 miles per hour with a good, well tuned 40 hp outboard. You lose about 1 mph for every 100 lbs. that you add to the boat. With the water tank full, it will go about 15 to 17.

It is possible to drain the water tank while moving under power. You have to be going about 10 mph. Open the vent plug and open the gate valve on the transom. The nose of the boat will be high and will help the water to drain. The suction of the passing water will also help empty the tank. It takes about 4 to 5 minutes at 10 mph to empty it completely. With the nose high and in rough water, some water may spill out the vent hole while the tank is still full. Watch this carefully, or you may flood the boat.

When the tank is empty, immediately close the vent plug and the transom valve, or the tank will again fill with water. Always make sure the vent and valve are closed except for times when the tank is emptying or filling.

At dockside, a hose end siphon will empty the tank in about 12 minutes.