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Electrically organized

by Chip Lawson, Posted March 11, 2009
This article assumes a 12-volt negative-ground DC electrical system, which is the most common system found on today’s production sailboats. It also assumes that all wiring is properly sized for the length (run) and load of the boat’s various electrical devices. The concepts described can be applied to most DC electrical systems but should be modified in some instances. The
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Project: Tool rack

by Sail Staff, Posted March 11, 2009
When something on board needs to be fixed, one of my secret weapons for getting the job done correctly is having—and being able to locate—the right tools for the job. Over the years I’ve accumulated hundreds of tools appropriate for any conceivable problem. The problem is how to stow them in an organized way. The tools I use most often need to be within easy reach; the rest
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Outboard rebuild

by Sail Staff, Posted February 16, 2009
Checklist

Tools

  • Basic tool kit
  • Wrenches and sockets (metric if you’re working on a European or Japanese engine)
  • Screwdrivers
  • Propane blowtorch
  • Rubber mallet
  • Hammer
  • Razor blade
  • Pliers
  • Vise-Grips
  • Vise
  • 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper
  • Brush for applying grease and lubricating


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    In hot water

    by Peter Nielsen, Posted February 16, 2009
    Checklist

    Tools

  • Screwdrivers
  • Wrenches
  • Cordless drill
  • Tube cutter

    • Materials

  • Water heater
  • 5/8" heavy-duty water hose
  • NPT fittings
  • Fasteners, as needed

    • After upgrading the mostly original fresh-water plumbing system on our 1973 Norlin 34 project boat with new hoses,


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    Wireless Mousetrap

    by Gordon West, Posted January 20, 2009
    Tom Gilbert of Jensen Beach, Florida, asks:

    "I'm about to install Wi-Fi on my boat so I can use my laptop when I'm in the harbor. I think a 14-element YAGI, such as the RL/WAVRVMAR or the RL/14ele2.4wp, would be good units I can aim, set, and receive. However, other people tell me that an omnidirectional antenna is the answer. Which is the better


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