Blog
NOT ALL VIBES ARE GOOD
on October 7, 2020
Vibrations may be good when listening to music, but vibrations are often indicative of an issue with a component on the boat. This is not a comprehensive guide by any stretch, but it will, hopefully, help you identify the source of any unwanted vibration, starting with the simplest causes. DOES THE ENGINE VIBRATE WHEN IT IS RUNNING WITH TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL? If Yes: Worn engine mounts. Inspect each engine mount in turn. Is one shaking […]
DON’T LEAVE WITHOUT YOUR DITTY BAG
on September 30, 2020
In the 17th century, British sailors kept their personal items in what they used to call a “housewife,” a tubular-shaped fabric sack closed with a drawstring that contained their belongings as well as essentials for repairing clothing and some tools of the trade. These bags, companions to the sailors’ sea bags or sea chests, were hung from a hammock ring or a hook or peg next to their bunks. Eventually, they became known as ditty […]
KEEPING YOUR BOAT CLEAN
on September 23, 2020
Problem: Fishblood Stains On Nonskid While evidence of catches on your deck means you had a great day on the water, it’s just plain yucky to look at. SOLUTION The best method is to wash down any affected surfaces before the blood has a chance to dry. Should you miss a spot, sprinkle some Bar Keepers Friend on clean, wet nonskid, scrub, and rinse. Alternatively, try hydrogen peroxide or OxiClean (or generic equivalent) for really […]
NEED A FASTENER?
on September 16, 2020
BUYING QUALITY FASTENERS For marine applications, the fastener material of choice, excluding aluminum rivets, will nearly always be stainless steel. Bronze is equally good but only for fastening bronze hardware. Avoid entirely typical hardware store offerings of brass and plated steel. Where do you get high-quality marine fasteners? Your local boat-supply store should carry a good selection. Many hardware stores also stock stainless fasteners. However, not all stainless steel is created equal. Try to get […]
GOT THAT BUYING ITCH?
on September 9, 2020
So you have decided to get a boat. Getting an inspection can save you countless problems down the line. Behind most successful used-boat transactions, there’s a Purchase Agreement and Bill of Sale that clearly spell out how the boat was bought or sold. While not perfect, this goes a long way to alleviate any misunderstandings. “A Purchase Agreement is necessary if you intend to buy a boat, but require that certain things must be done […]
SELLING YOUR BOAT
on September 2, 2020
PRESENTATION PAYS Deciding where to invest in fixing up your boat for sale comes down to two questions that every boat owner should ask themselves: What will it cost to make the repair or upgrade? What will it cost if I don’t? Fortunately, there are a few easy and inexpensive things you can do, which will always improve the marketability and speed up a sale. Here’s what the pros had to say: “De clutter by […]
NIGHTTIME BOATING TIPS
on August 26, 2020
10 Tips for Boating at Night Slow down, visibility is reduced at night. Share the lookout duties. Tap into your preparations list. Preserve your night vision. Don’t use headlights or spotlights. Look for the red and green. Listen, listen, listen. Trust your navigation instruments. Bring along a towel—for many uses. Dock with extra caution. 1. Slow down Visibility is reduced at night. Distances are harder to judge, obstacles are difficult to see, and moisture and […]
DRIVING A BOAT
on August 19, 2020
All boat models are more or less unique, but some require special attention. Step By Step On How to Drive a Boat If your boat is powered by gasoline and has an engine compartment, run the “blower” (an exhaust fan) as per manufacturer’s recommendations prior to starting the engine, to make sure there isn’t a build-up of fumes in the compartment. This is a good time to run through your pre departure checklist. Put the […]
HOW TO REACT TO A SUDDEN STORM
on August 12, 2020
When A Squall Comes Calling Fortunately, most afternoon thunderstorms last less than half an hour. But even a “routine” squall can turn threatening and scary when combined with mechanical failure. You might be able to make it to a protected anchorage before the squall arrives and then be on your way afterward with no drama. Or, you can employ several effective techniques to deal with oncoming threatening weather. First, check your weather before going boating, […]
CONTEMPLATING A MOVE FRESH WATER?
on August 7, 2020
Here’s an article by Rich Armstrong about moving from freshwater to salt. A change of maintenance habits — and anodes — is the key to transitioning from inland to coastal waters. When moving from freshwater to salt, your boat’s engine and anodes require special attention to keep everything running well. You don’t need census statistics to tell you that plenty of lifelong freshwater boaters eventually head south to spend their retirement in warmer climes, such […]