Short Answers

Exhaust manifolds do corrode eventually and replacements can be expensive, however Lansing marine have sourced a supplier in the USA at considerably lower prices than manufacturers original equipment

The canvas lining for the sliding runners on the drop windows were becoming rather tatty - we found 'Seals Direct at 60 Silverdale, New Milton Hants, BH25 7DE extraordinarily helpful, and they found an updated replacement, Contact Don Howard on 01425 610967.

The steering wheel chrome was becoming rough, so we had it removed and found it had a superb brass and stainless base which was re-chromed at a small cost, plenty of local shops will do this for about £25. The morse controls could do with this treatment next so we will probably use the same process and report back with the results.

The black fibreglass backing for the instrument panel is difficult to keep looking tidy so we masked off all the instruments, this takes the longest time, and sprayed it in situ with matt black car aerosol. Don't forget to de-grease and mask off the surrounding areas with newspaper. It's then just a matter of applying about three coats, they dry in about ten minutes depending on temperature.

Beware of prop balancers - We had our spare props balanced and had to remove them straight away after fitting because of the vibration. The matter is unresolved at this time but you can imagine the extra expenses involved in lifting the boat and refitting the old props. C& J Ezard