HMS ZULU 14 SEPT. 1942. ( FOR SIMON ).

[Mini Me]

Well done on the Bow mods. I'd say you have a pretty good crew of "fitters" on this one. :thumb2:

[JayCee]

Paul, Toby and Rick. Thanks for joining in.
John.

[JayCee]

Hello one and all. Well after the longest tea break in the history of mankind a modicum of work has been done. The main problem has been one of labour. The original Zulu was built in Glasgow (Scotland) where there were plenty of skilled shipbuilders. This one, of course is being built here in Cyprus. We have no concept of heavy engineering and my minions just want to get back to their farms and pick potatoes. Anyway the incorrect kit doors were removed with careful use of a chisel blade and sanding sticks. The new P/E doors were then assembled (at least I tried to). The doors are 6mm x 2mm and consist of two pieces. The door itself and the frame. This was when I found how much dexterity I have lost in my left hand after the Stroke I had a year ago. Onwards. These proved beyond me, the locking dogs were so small even my optivisor was no use. For the moment the doors are in place without the frames, held on with PVA so they will be easy to remove. Plan B is to purchase some 3d printed ones.



Two doors missing from the foredeck bulkhead have been added, as well as a start on the deck fittings.


The deck houses are only placed on. This is to determine the best way of assembly. Structure first and then deck fittings around them or fittings first and place the structure between them. The instructions of course give no assistance. Lots of access ladders to go on as well.
John

[Jim R]

Hi John
Hope the tea break was relaxing. Looks like despite some problems you're making good progress. You seem to have a clear idea of the way forward.
Jim

[Guest]

Looking good John. Must be plenty of distractions living in your little bit of paradise - here in the UK we're hunkering down in the cold weather.

[boatman]

HI John im in on this build will be following closely
chris

[JayCee]

Hello all you good folks, I am afraid multiple hospital stays have put a temporary halt to this build. I have had recurring attacks of cholecystitis. The cure is quite simple, remove the gall bladder. The problem is that a minimum of six weeks must pass between an attack and surgery. My body has not wanted to cooperate, attacks were about every four weeks. Luck has just been with me and I managed six weeks since he last attack. The surgeon went full steam ahead and removed my gall bladder in a rush job on Friday. I am back at home but cannot sit comfortably at the work table. I hope to get back in full production in a week or so. Until then everyone have a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Safe New Year.
John.

[Tim Marlow]

Hope you feel better soon John. I suppose that means dietary changes as well?

[spanner570]

John, great to read all is well and you are back home - No finer recuperation centre!

....and yes, all the best to you for Christmas and the New Year (What ever that might bring for us all.) :thinking:

[rtfoe]

Hi John, I just had stones and my gall bladder removed too last late August. Glad you're doing well. Home is the best recovery therapy but the visits post op check ups are a pain to wait but I get amused when the nurses try to find my veins to extract blood. Merry X'mas to you.

Cheers,
Richard

[boatman]

HI John hope you feel better an have a nice xmas an new yr as well
chris an jen

[Guest]

John , sorry to read you have had that, very painful, at least it is behind you. Hope you have a peaceful Christmas and a better New year.
I shall grab a seat next to Chris a knowable builder of all things floaty.

[JayCee]

Thank you everyone for your support.
TIM - yes diet changes, less fat which is a sod as I produce probably the best olive oil you can get (normally use it by the gallon).
Went back to the hospital yesterday and had the stitches removed, which surprised me. I wasn't expecting it for a good few days yet.
All the best to everyone and stay safe.
John.

[Jim R]

Hi John
Hope you are soon on the mend. Take things easy and have good Christmas.
Jim

[JayCee]

P. S. I forgot to say the surgeon also gave me bad news. He cancelled Christmas Dinner. I am not allowed to deviate from the ultra strict pre surgery diet for at least another week. Does anybody know if you can get Christmas Dinner flavoured soup ? !
Cheers, John.