As our Summer issue we have, of course, spent a lot of time this month looking how to enjoy boating and the fun things we can all get up to. Not a hard task with so many activities associated with boating from fishing and racing to watersports and cruising. Some people buy a boat simply to cruise the canals, while others go out and buy every piece of kit going to do water-skiing, wakeboarding and every other adrenaline sport they can think of. There’s no right or wrong, better or worse, simply what you and your family find entertaining and relaxing. Personally, though, I’d go for the quiet life these days, but I still love watching others tearing around at high speed.
So, we’re planning a summer of fun, but also need to think about the serious side of boating in which we are currently seeing businesses sadly closing or losing staff due to the worldwide economic difficulties, the latest of which is US giant Genmar, as you will read elsewhere in the this month’s news. So, with all this doom and gloom, it’s reassuring to read about Ribcraft’s plans for combating the recession in this month’s Investing In The Future. Ribcraft can see where they need to make savings in their business and are actively working and investing to make their future bright. They are not alone in looking at new technologies to improve efficiency and no doubt other marine businesses will be following their lead.
|
June 26th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Manual Systems
Most manual steering systems are single cable driven from the helm, routed through the boat and connected at the other end to the engine. The most common and well known system is probably Teleflex. At the engine end, the cable slides through the engine tilt tube; this is the part that needs lubrication the most as it is exposed to salt water. Lack of lubrication here can cause stiffness and may eventually seize and leave you without steering when you need it most; lubrication twice a year is about right.
Remove the steering nut from the tilt tube, release the cable as far as you can and coat with grease after cleaning, replacing the cable back into the tilt tube, tightening the nut when finished.
Whilst in this area of the boat, lubricate all linkage arms.
Some helms are accessible for lubrication of the screw system. If so keep it well greased, although the outboard end of the system is the most important one. Turn the helm back and forth several times to distribute the lubricant, repeat if required.
A few older manual steering systems are operated by a wire cable around a drum at the helm; these also need to be kept lubricated and free running.
Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic steering systems are simpler, generally more reliable and don’t suffer from cable play as they age, making them much more precise in action and easy to use. The difference between manual and hydraulic can be a bit like motor vehicles: one with power steering and one without power steering. Operation with a hydraulic set-up should be remarkably smooth and easy. With hydraulic steering maintenance, it is simply a case of examining the hydraulic hoses, connections and helm for leaks as well as maintaining the fluid level. It is as well during these checks to inspect the steering ram on the engine for leaks and cleanliness. All hose fittings must be tight.
Propeller & Gearbox Jobs - Outboards & Outdrives
Occasionally remove the propeller to check for fishing line wrapped around the shaft which, in severe cases, may wind its way back into the seal on the gearbox and cause water ingress into the gear unit. Generously lubricate the shaft before re-fitting the propeller, after removing any burrs from the blades.
Whilst in this location you may like to consider changing the gearbox oil, which should be done at least annually. On some outboards, the drain plug is magnetic and will attract slivers of metal and fine metallic dust from the oil. Simply clean these away before re-installing the drain plug.
The oil removed should be dark and clean; any milky appearance may indicate the presence of water in the oil and should be investigated. A very slight clouding may be caused by condensation and need not cause too much concern. Whilst in this location check that the anodes are in sound condition. If they are more than half worn, it may be worth considering replacement.
Check all nuts and bolts including the drain plug, before returning to the water.
Teleflex: www.teleflexmarine.com
|
June 26th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Although many of you have already taken steps to becoming greener boaters, there are still people who carry on boating regardless of the impact they might be having on the environment. Yes, it’s true that some forms of boating and the amount of time you spend afloat will have an impact on your overall effect on the environment, but that doesn’t make your contribution any less important. Not only do lots of small changes add up to big changes, but it’s also about showing others, especially future generations, how things can be done in an environmentally friendly way. It doesn’t have to cost you a fortune, and many of the things you can do are free and simple to do; sometimes it’s just a matter of changing old habits. Not easy to do, I know, but well worth the effort if it means saving the planet. More and more green boating products are coming to the market all the time, and if cost prohibits you going totally green then choose the areas where you think you have the most impact on the environment, say, cleaning your boat or antifouling. You can quickly find many of the current green products available at The Green Directory (www.sailingnetworks.com/green). Another fantastic resource is The Green Blue (www.thegreenblue.org.uk), which offers practical advice and information to help you think and act in an environmentally conscious way. So, catch up with the latest environmental news in our new green column. And, of course, don’t forget to recycle, recycle, recycle!
|
June 6th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
On a recent trip to Amsterdam I was reminded of the wonderful variety of liveaboard craft that can be found. Many of those moored up along the canalsides of this vibrant city certainly weren’t going anywhere anytime soon, but that by no means takes away from their magic and the romance of living on the water. These stunning homes come in all shapes and sizes and each completely different from its next door neighbour. Ultra modern was sitting happily next to a boat almost completely hidden underneath a layer of traditional greenery. While some looked in need of some TLC, others were almost gleaming, but most simply looked lived in and, most importantly, loved.
Now I have no idea how much it costs to have a mooring in central Amsterdam (and if hotel prices are anything to go by they aren’t cheap), but you can bet they are as hard to come by over there as they are here. Colin Jones talks about travelling abroad to The Med in this month’s Inshore Skipper, but my trip to Amsterdam shows there are also plenty of places a lot closer to home that offer just as interesting surroundings… it’s sometimes just a matter of searching them out.
If your search does take you across to foreign waters just remember that you will not be leaving bureaucracy behind when you step aboard your boat. If anything, it gets worse, and the mountain of paperwork you need to have will only grow. But perhaps the sunny days relaxing in The Med, or wherever you choose to sail, will make up for this small inconvenience…
|
May 7th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Irrespective of whether you use your boat weekly or for the odd weekend, basic and on-going maintenance is essential. Do the job yourself and learn as you go, if you then experience a problem on the water, you are familiar with the set-up.
TRAILER
The typical boat trailer, its wheel bearings and box sections are subject to constant immersion in corrosive seawater. If not regularly flushed with fresh water, any exposed steel parts of the trailer will eventually give way to corrosion. A galvanised trailer is far more resistant to corrosion than the painted variety, although patches of rust will eventually form on all trailers.
1. If you are able, flush the trailer thoroughly with copious amounts of fresh water after every seawater immersion. A local garage with a jet wash machine is ideal; pay particular attention to behind the wheels, inside the box sections, rollers and the winch assembly.
2. Touch up any rust spots and patches with a product such as Hammerite or similar, keeping any rust under control.
3. Check the security of the wheel nuts regularly; this will also guarantee that you can remove them easily to change the wheel if needed.
4. Trailer safety or breakaway cables should be maintained in good order with no sign of fraying. If they are ever needed in an emergency to apply the trailer brakes should the hitch part company with the vehicle, they need to be in sound condition and able to do the job they were designed for.
5. Carrying a trailer spares kit can get you out of trouble. Include a spare set of bearings, split pins, bearing grease, wheel wrench, spare wheel nuts and bulb replacements for the lighting board. A jack suitable for the trailer is also a necessity. The car jack may fit the trailer, but it is prudent to ensure it can be used safely before needed.
6. Incorrect tyre pressure can cause overheating of the tyre and rim and can lead to the separation of the tyre from the wheel rim, especially on smaller wheels. Tyre pressure checks are crucial.
BOAT
Alternative Cleaning Products
Irritating water spots can spoil the look of a clean hull, so try a splash of shower cleaner on a cloth. This method can be particularly effective if the hull is wet. You can also remove stubborn stains on fibreglass using a baking powder paste applied with gentle pressure; this is a good substitute for the commercial alternative and much less expensive.
Vinyl seats become hard and crack after time; this is particularly true in open boats that receive their full quota of U.V. Vinyl conditioner applied regularly will help prevent this and keep your seats and trim looking good.
Other Checks
1. The battery terminals should be clean and tight, and any levels in a top-up type battery maintained.
2. It is worth checking that all deck fittings such as fairleads and cleats are tight, and the seal between deck and fitting is in good condition. If there is any doubt as to the integrity of the seal it may be better to remove the fitting, clean it thoroughly and reseal it. This will avoid water damage below the fitting.
3. A good number of electrical breakdowns are caused by corrosion or loose terminals; some can be avoided with regular inspection and protection of exposed terminals with a non-conductive inhibitor or grease.
|
April 30th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
With all this talk of getting back on the water how are your plans for the new season coming along? Is your boat ready or are there still a few jobs that you need to finish off? You don’t want to be waiting too long as we need to make use of every sunny day that we can in this country. We’ve got lots of features for you in this issue to help make your first outing as smooth as possible but, as always, if you’ve got any specific questions our team of experts are ready and waiting to point you in the right direction.
Where are you going to be doing your boating this year? Perhaps you’ve got somewhere new lined up. If you’re a trailer boater, remember you can use our launching guide (available on www.boatmart.co.uk) to find out about boating facilities around the country including marinas, slipways and upcoming tidal information. One of the really great things about Boatlaunch is that, once you’ve experienced one of the listed locations, you can edit the available information so that’s it’s kept as up-dated as possible for other boaters. Well, boaters are a friendly bunch, so it makes sense to share information so that others know which places are worth going to and which to avoid.
Over the coming months we’ll be highlighting some of our favourite boating spots around the country, so let us know where you take your boat this season too - the good, the bad and the ugly - and we’ll share your thoughts with the nation.
All this talk of wonderful boating locations has left me thinking of one thing… getting outside and enjoying the great outdoors that this country as to offer. See you on the water!
|
April 8th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
A good number of us have already commissioned our boat for the new season, so this month we return to scheduled checks, maintenance and tips.
TRAILER
1. Jack up each wheel in turn and try to rock from side to side to establish if there is play in the bearing. If there is, remove the split pin, adjust the castle nut and try again. The wheel must still spin freely but have no side movement. If all is well, replace the split pin with a new one. Spin the wheel whilst the trailer is off the ground - it should be silent. Any rumble or rough noise indicates a worn bearing and will entail stripping the hub and replacing both bearings before use. Occasionally, the brake shoes will just touch the drum slightly on the spin of the wheel, and providing it is minimal it should not cause concern.
2. Ensure that the jockey wheel assembly is locked in the up position before towing; it is amazing how many drag on the road and ruin an otherwise perfectly good jockey wheel.
3. Life’s little certainties include taxes, death and salt water trailer corrosion. A good flush of the trailer after every launch, including the inside of the box sections, will not entirely alleviate corrosion, but will set it back many years.
ENGINE
1. Fluid level checks before every launch will cast aside any concerns on this point, whilst an occasional glance at the engine whilst underway will provide assurance that there are no major leaks about to occur.
2. Check that there is no propeller damage which can be the cause of vibration and even possible gearbox damage. Very small nicks can be filed flat, but damaged blades require professional repair.
3. Water cooling is best checked at the start of every trip. Adequate cooling is a basic engine requirement, without it, substantial, serious and expensive damage can occur in a very short space of time.
Let’s make this season the best ever. If the credit crunch is affecting you, trim your financial sails accordingly, but be sure to make the most of every single minute of the new season enjoying your investment.
BOAT
1. If you start the season with a clean fuel tank, and filter each batch of fuel taken onboard, the tank and filters will remain in a clean condition and provide trouble free spotless fuel for the season.
2. Check and eradicate any excessive play in the steering system. In hydraulic systems, low fluid level may be the cause, in mechanical systems, check the steering cable and helm for wear. Limited play is acceptable, but if it is too severe, steering becomes an arduous task.
|
April 2nd, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
It was fascinating to read about the discovery of the famous shipwreck, Victory. Hopefully many questions surrounding its fate will now be answered, but doesn’t it also raise more questions too? For example, how did it come to be so far away from where it was thought to have gone down and how many valuable artefacts have already been lost to the sea and human trawling. Let’s hope that archaeologists are able to work fast to rescue what they can and make a full record of Victory as possible.
Of course, this is just the latest in a long line of shipwreck discoveries and there are many more out there just waiting to be found, or not as the case may be. But why do we have such a fascination with boats that have been lost to the sea, often with the loss of many lives. Perhaps it’s because they often go down taking many unanswered questions with them, and we do love a good mystery don’t we? Often the questions will remained unanswered even when the boats are discovered; after all time and the sea can do their worst to these craft, but amazingly historians, archaeologists and marine experts often do piece together the pieces of these long forgotten jigsaws. So perhaps that’s why we love shipwrecks - because it gives us a new challenge, to find out the truth.
|
March 11th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
The new season is fast approaching, and this month we consider items of practical equipment onboard that can make life easier, safer and more cost effective. We also recap on pre-launch checks.
GPS
The humble GPS has reduced massively in price, and the handheld version now starts at around £80. This single piece of equipment can replace the compass and log, pinpoint your position and get you from A - B in the shortest possible time and distance, saving you valuable fuel. It goes without saying that you should always carry a mechanical compass as backup.
Now accepted on the smallest of boats, the GPS was once the domain of bigger and more expensive craft. Distance, speed over ground, course to steer, time elapsed, E.T.A. and present location are all displayed accurately. With this information and a tachometer you can see at a glance that an extra 700RPM may only give you an extra half knot in speed, but significantly increase your fuel costs. So you can have your cake and eat it by using all of its standard features in addition to saving fuel.
EXHAUST ALARM
This is a valuable addition to any inboard engine powered boat. If for whatever reason the cooling water ceases, the exhaust alarm will alert you to the situation before severe engine damage occurs. Easily fitted and usually consisting of a sensor on the cooling water exhaust bend and a display or alarm of some sort, the exhaust alarm is almost a necessity.
DEPTH SOUNDER
The transducer can either be fitted in-hull, through hull or on the stern using a small bracket. Most sounders display different modes, metric or imperial and have the ability to offset the keel, and compensate for draught, as well as offering adjustment for the speed of the updated information, in addition to other features.
PRE-LAUNCH CHECKS
1. Tell somebody competent where you are going, what time you expect to return & what to do if you don’t
2. All engine fluid levels
3. Battery condition
4. Seawater filter, bilge pump operation & seacock operation
5. Sufficient fresh fuel + 30%
6. Fuel primed, outboard primer bulb & vent open
7. Lifejackets & safety equipment (flares, VHF & navigation lights)
8. Smooth running & engine acceleration
9. Cooling water circulation & belt condition
10. Safety equipment & suitable clothing
BREAKDOWN AT SEA
Two major factors of breakdown at sea are incorrect maintenance, or lack of it, and fuel contamination. Three major questions to ask before going to sea are:
1. Will I get the boat back safely?
2. Will the boat get me back safely?
3. Is the boat in sound condition and capable of the trip that is planned?
4. Are the crew and skipper competent to make the trip, and do they have the necessary skills to handle any difficulties that may be incurred in these waters?
|
March 4th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
The new Sunseeker 30m yacht made its debut at the London Boat Show this year with all the cutting edge technology, superb craftsmanship and sheer luxury that customers in this league have come to expect. Given the opportunity, who wouldn’t want a slice of that? But small boats are great fun too, just a tad cheaper to own and because they can be easily moved from A to B you get more opportunities to get out on the water, which is what boating is all about. For a relatively modest outlay you can join a club near you to enjoy canoeing, kayaking or sailing and many of us have happy memories of making new friends over the Mirror dinghies. Would-be owners have rafts of options from previously owned to brand spanking new. Morton Boats’ Fun Yak range starts at just £299 for a 2m Palourde. Models multi-task as work or family boats and are made of rotomolded polyetheline so are maintenance free. Transportation needn’t be a problem with a small boat; a decent RIB for four people will go in a bag and most roof racks will carry a boat up to 12ft. The Trouper 12 (pictured) is a roof rackable sailing dinghy from Swallow Boats that is also available in kit form at around £2,000. Building a boat in your garage is not necessarily the cheapest option but very satisfying and increasingly popular with grandads and grandchildren. Small boats have lots going for them.
|
February 11th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
With the present cold snap and continued depressing economic outlook, it will be great to get back on the water soon. You have your rig, so it doesn’t have to be too expensive to go boating, and this really could be your best season ever.
Even if the forecast is not perfect, I have vowed to maximise the coming season, even if it means doing a little more boating on the inland waterways, and a little less on the coast. Getting your rig onto the water is enjoying your investment, and getting the best out of all of the work you have put into her. Long cruising days followed by long evenings on deck beneath the stars, and throw in the beautiful British coastline and scenery. It’s just the tonic we all need.
Now is the best time to check the trailer, boat and engine.
TRAILER
1. Ensure that the trailer keel rollers have not become flattened on one side over the winter. If they have you can replace them.
2. Before you couple-up, check the tyre pressure and condition, as well as bearing lubrication and adjustment.
3. Check lighting board operation and cable condition. The most common cause of non-working lights is a poor bulb contact.
4. The first time you tow your boat, brake gently to establish that the braking is operating correctly, stopping after a couple of miles to check that the wheel bearings and brakes are not overheating.
5. If you have any doubts concerning the boat tie-down straps, replace them.
6. Keeping any small area of rust or corrosion touched-up will help increase the service life of the trailer.
ENGINE
Commission the engine and include the following:
1. Cooling.
2. Fuel system bleed.
3. Pump impellor condition.
4. Belt tension and condition.
5. Stuffing box if applicable.
6. Oil change - engine and gearbox (if not carried out at lay-up).
7. Seacock operation.
8. All filters.
9. After commissioning the engine, check carefully for any fluid leaks.
BOAT
1. A coat of polish on the hull and topsides will offer protection from day one.
2. Keep upholstery flexible by applying a conditioner. This will also provide protection from the sun and help prevent cracking.
3. Carpets can suffer badly from sand and stone abrasion; a boarding mat may help prevent this.
4. Touch up any woodwork with the same product that was applied initially.
5. Spray all exposed wiring connections with an anti-damp compound, or WD40.
6. You can, if you wish, reproof your fabric boat covers with the appropriate product. This is easy to do and extends the life of the cover considerably by ensuring rapid water run-off. Check with the manufacturer for the correct product.
|
February 4th, 2009 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
A new car review has been posted on the Motors4Boaters web site. The Honda Accord Tourer is something of a bridge car, standing between being an out and out family car, but while retaining many features that would be of interest to your average boater (whatever one of those is). Have a look at the review and see what you think. If nothing else it’s a very stylish car. 
|
January 26th, 2009 |
by Phil Pickin
7287pwkr
Not the best boating weather in the UK this year, but there was always a show or a boat jumble to look forward to. In January doors opened on the London Boat Show 2008, held for the 5th time at ExCel in Docklands and it was a post Christmas feast of fast and beautiful boats. I was envious of two friends who studied the lists of crew vacancies and spent the summer cruising around Croatia visiting all those historic ports and stunning anchorages. The Welsh Boat Show at Carmarthen in May showcased the classy Fairline Targa 38, which sold to a local couple for a cool £250,000. The Crick Boat Show in the same month attracted families and a colourful line-up of narrowboats, including a ‘love it or hate it’ narrowboat ‘Whitefield’ with a hint of Mediterranean cruiser. Crick was a good weekend but sadly Monday arrived with gales and everyone went home early. Cowes Week in August was also decidedly wintry but thrilling as usual for spectators and competitors alike, while in Quingdao, China Ben Ainslie took his fourth gold in the Finn medal race. In September Ben led Team GB to open the 40th Southampton Boat Show, joined by legends including Sir Robin-Knox Johnston and Dame Ellen MacArthur. There was serious money about and Fairline sold 30 boats costing £26 million. On 1st November red diesel rates of duty changed not for domestic use on board but leisure boaters will pay full duty on ‘fuel for propelling’. Here’s to another busy year in 2009.
|
November 24th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
MAINTENANCE JOBS
The end of 2008 is nearly upon us, and provided we complete all the boating tasks in the winter, we can be out on the water early in the new season.
TRAILER
1. Check the chassis carefully for corrosion then clean with a brush or wire wool and touch up where necessary using a suitable product such as Hammerite.
ENGINE
1. Order all of your requirements such as fuel and air filters and anything else needed to commission or service the engine at the earliest opportunity.
2. With the boat is out of the water, why not take the opportunity to check shaft alignment on an inboard engine, the bellows on outdrive units and propeller condition. If shaft alignment or the bellows need replacing you will have plenty of time to order any parts such as engine feet or a new bellows for the outdrive.
3. If control or steering cables require replacement this is probably the best time for the task. Standard control cables such as the 33C range are relatively inexpensive and are available in different qualities. Observe all recommendations with regard to cable bend radius. A decent control cable should last for years.
BOAT
1. There is very little to do on the boat at this time of year, apart from regular checks for water ingress and condensation in the cabin. If the boat is covered, ensure sufficient ventilation under the cover and throughout the boat interior. Try to keep the cover taught, packing out with cloth between the cover and hull where required to stop abrasion of the hull surface.
|
November 5th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
So have you had to comply with the Boat Safety Scheme? Does it ever worry you as a boater, or potential boater, that there are too many rules and regulations that you need to be aware of or might, unwittingly, have ignored. If you’re anything like me you want to be -up-to-date and compliant with absolutely everything. Fortunately in boating there are loads and loads of ‘requirements’ so chances are you have all the paperwork you need, but wouldn’t it be nice to have a place which told you exactly what you need, when you need it and what it costs. This information is currently available… from each individual organisation, but what we need it a central resource that keeps it up-to-date and in one easy to use location (ideally on the Web). Now all we need is someone to come forward and offer to set it up…
|
October 29th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
MAINTENANCE JOBS
Many of us will now be thinking about laying the boat up for the winter, but if not make sure you continue with the regular maintenance checks.
TRAILER
1. If you have finished using your boat for the season, and you have not already done so, flush the trailer with copious amounts of fresh water using a garden hose, or better still, a pressure washer. Pay particular attention to inside box sections, behind wheels, and all of those out of the way places. If salt deposits are on the trailer over the winter period, they have time to do substantial damage to the trailer chassis.
2. Once the trailer is dry, lubricate all moving parts including the winch, lighting board screws and coupling head with an anti-corrosion compound.
3. If you are able to remove the wheels and store them, not only is that the best anti-theft device available, but it will also give you a chance to clean and maybe paint the rims.
ENGINE
1. Ensure that any sealed (fresh) water-cooled engines have the correct mixture of antifreeze added. Frost damage can be expensive and is easily avoidable.
2. If you are still using an outboard engine, ensure that every drop of water drains from the unit after use to avoid freezing. Always leave engines standing upright if possible.
3. At this time of year, condensation easily forms within fuel tanks, especially metal containers. Keep your tank full with fuel to keep this to a minimum.
BOAT
1. Drain fresh water tanks and systems when not in use.
2. Any water that accumulates in the boat can freeze; yet another reason to keep your boat cover in good condition and regularly check the boat for ingress of water.
3. Check that bilges are dry and that the bilge pump is not sitting in water.
4. Check boat covers are adequately supported and unable to hold water in large puddles. Accumulations of water on the cover may not only find their way into the boat, but also cause damage to your cover.
|
October 8th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
While it’s not good news that visitor numbers to this year’s Southampton Boat Show were down on 2007 we shouldn’t be too downbeat about it. After all, they were only 5% lower, and in the current economic climate, along with the pretty wet end to the summer, I think the organisers will be happy with the figures, especially as the show itself was another huge success. It just goes to show that people love boats and won’t let a little thing like the English weather put them off. On the economic side, many companies reported good sales, which is a positive sign for the industry. Of course, there are others who have had to sell their boats or put plans to buy on hold, but that didn’t stop them having a good day out in Southampton at what is one of the biggest and best shows around. With many of us having to watch our pennies over the next few months we’re going to be showing you how you can still go boating without spending a fortune, Boat Mart is, of course, the Ultimate Guide To Affordable Boating!
|
September 25th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
MAINTENANCE JOBS
It’s a wonderful time of year to be out on your boats, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t also be keeping our craft in tip-top condition.
TRAILER
Following a catastrophic failure of wheel studs, and the loss of a wheel whilst towing at 50mph, I have given great thought and spoken to many experienced people with a view to establishing the reason in the hope that you may not suffer the same consequence.
The consensus is that one of the wheel nuts must have been slightly loose, causing a slight wobbling effect on the wheel and the eventual shearing of the remaining studs. I find it difficult to accept this as I check wheel nuts for security before every journey (this occurred after 150 miles was covered though).
1. It is worth stopping for a few minutes mid-journey to check wheel nut security, as well as before you leave.
2. Continue with cleaning, adjusting and re-packing the bearings as frequently as you can, but at least following every three immersions, or on long journeys more frequently.
3. Check tyre pressures, depth of tread and condition before every journey.
4. Ratchet tie-down straps may need replacing, check for fraying and wear on the ratchet. This is the only item that saved my boat from catastrophe on this occasion.
5. If you use your trailer in salt water, consider flushing thoroughly after every immersion to defer corrosion.
ENGINE
1. Continue with the fluid checks before every outing.
2. Check meticulously for any slight leakages from the power unit and gearbox, and remedy before use.
3. If the boat is on a trailer, or out of the water, check the propeller for damaged blades. File off any edge burrs, or send to a specialist if serious blade damage is evident.
4. Clean the raw water filter on inboard engines and check seacocks are moving freely.
5. Check battery levels if you have a wet lead-acid battery and once rested, that is neither charged or discharged for at least three hours, check the voltage with a reliable multimeter.
A 100% fully charged battery should read 12.8 volts.
6. The enemy of electrical connections and joints on a boat is corrosion. Check all cable connections within the engine compartment for tightness. Any corroded terminals should be cleaned, remade if required and smeared with an anti corrosion compound such as silicone grease.
7. Consider the occasional use of a biocide on diesel-fuelled boats.
8. On boats with an outboard engine and portable tank, inspect the primer bulb and fuel hose for cracks and perishing.
BOAT
1. A mid-season polish will help to keep the sun from bleaching the gelcoat.
2. Remove any stones and debris carefully from the interior where they can lead to damage.
3. Treating hoods and canopies with a cleaner and conditioner will bring them back to ‘as new’ condition.
4. Clean any deposits from the underside of the boat to prevent damage from trailer rollers during launch-recovery.
5. Check bilge pump operation, and bilge cleanliness.
6. Check cable wheel steering units for serviceability and lubricate the pulleys. Check hydraulic units for leaks and fluid level.
Thanks to Parrymore Trailers: 01784-464-636 / www.parrymoretrailers.com
|
August 13th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Presumably those who already have to comply with the Boat Safety Scheme on inland waterways won’t be bothered as their craft already have a form of registration. Although it comes down to cost doesn’t it? With prices going up all around us on a regular basis we hardly want to add another bill to the pile. Money, and the additional paperwork, aside though, surely there’s no harm in having a register of boats in the UK. It would definitely help when buying and selling boats as proof of ownership, and similarly might help to deter boat thefts if craft become harder to sell on. However, it’s nice to have something in Britain which isn’t overly regulated and there is the argument that registration could be the first step towards introducing licences and compulsory training. Not a bad thing many of you will say, but the idea and the reality can often be very different, and not always good. Only time will tell where this one is going to lead us, but for now let’s just concentrate on enjoying our boats and the freedom they give us.
|
August 6th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
To give you some idea of what’s out there this month, a nationwide survey of waterway wildlife by over 1,100 visitors to canals and rivers during August last year produced sightings of over 60 different species. Some of the more common birds, animals and insects you’d expect to see included herons, mallards, swans, coots, geese, moor hens, toads and dragonflies. Rare and protected creatures such as the endangered water vole, bats and otters were noted while kingfishers, terrapins and grass snakes were seen by the rivers edge.
Rivers are fringed with white flowered meadow sweet, great willowherb and purple loosestrife. In clean and fast flowing rivers, the water crowfoot will be lush and wide spreading yet where the water flows slowly, yellow water lily may be present.
Estuary waders are starting to return after breeding. Lapwings and golden plovers join knots and bar-tailed godwits feeding on the mud, but some of these are just stopping off on their way back to Africa.
Fulmars that still have young to fledge are the only birds left on what were once noisy breeding grounds along the cliffs. Out to sea, you could chance upon passing gannets and terns being harassed by Arctic skuas, while Mediterranean and sooty shearwaters may also skim past. Clifftop flowers are at their best in August, particularly golden samphire, rock samphire and sea aster.
More information on how to navigate around wildlife can be found at www.thegreenblue.org.uk.
By: Robin Clegg
Courtesy The Green Blue (www.thegreenblue.org.uk)
|
July 17th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Previous Posts
