Re: [Paddlewise] Feathercraft K-1 - Assembly Times

> Thanks for the description of the K-1. I'm very interested in assembly
> times. Any chance of providing a breakdown of how long it takes to unpack,
> assemble with accessories, disassemble, pack away and clean? I find the
> Klepper Aerius 1 takes about 20 minutes to unpack and assemble (including
> floation bags), another 5 minutes to fit out with a pump, another 5 to fit
a
> rudder if conditions justify a rudder (which is seldom), and about 30
> minutes to dissassemble, dry the wood frame and pack away, with another 40
> minutes (spread over several days) for cleaning, drying and packing away
the
> skin on returning home. I've always found it pointless to try cleaning the
> skin at the take out.

> All the best, PeterO

This surprises me.  It takes me 20 minutes to assemble my Aerius II and a
bit less than 15 minutes to disassemble, dry (wood) and stick back in my
vehicle.  I'll lay the hull out  for 30 minutes or so when I get home which
may not be for a day following my paddle.  I've followed this procedure
since 1990, when I purchased my boat new, and my hardshell buddies are
always amazed on how the boat never seems to age.  Outside of a couple of
waxings during the summer, maintenance is minimal.  The boat sees
moderate-to-heavy use in the Great Lakes and the wood, fittings, etc. still
look good.  While not to disparage regular cleanings and maintenance, I've
come to the conclusion that these things are darn near bulletproof and can
get by with just a decent amount of upkeep.

I also bought a used Aerius 2000 last year which requires about half the
assembly/disassembly time than the A-II.  Definitely the ticket if you want
to get in and out of the water quick.

Jim Bielecki















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