This post describes a DIY Winchrite repair, when my Winchrite electric winch handle suddenly stopped working. What is a Winchrite? The Winchrite ABT (Advanced Brushless Technology) is a rechargeable electric winch handle…
Add a Coolant Drain Valve to Volvo MD2030
In the last post I described replacing the plugged exhaust elbow on my Volvo 2030b diesel. In the process I drained and refilled the cooling system several times. Draining was inefficient and…
Volvo Penta MD2030 Cooling system
Just before Christmas 2022, we had a rare very cold spell (-10 C) here in Vancouver, accompanied by heavy snow. After the snow melted enough so I could travel, I went down…
Loxx™ fasteners versus Lift-at-the-dot
There are two common fasteners used on boat canvas. The most popular is the snap fastener which can be canvas-to-canvas or canvas to a hard surface using a stud. This is a…
Fixing Twisted Anchor Chain
A little background first. A couple of years ago I had my anchor and chain re-galvanized. This was a great success, and both looked like new. However, after I started using it,…
What I Learned Servicing My Own Engine.
I usually have my Volvo MD2030 Diesel saildrive serviced during the off season when the mechanic is not too busy. My average annual motoring hours are 100-120 so it is a once…
Why replace sailboat running rigging?
Modern ropes last a long time in general, but all are subject to UV damage and general wear and tear. I live in British Columbia where UV is relatively low, particularly in…
Cutting a perfect hole
Or how to turn a small job into a big one… I recently found from MyHanse.com out that my Hanse 371 has a large void under the vee-berth, below the water tank….
Burgees and flags for lazy people.
This is what happens to a burgee when you leave it up all the time. This one is slightly less than one year old, but has been up in the sun and…
Fixing a Plugged Holding Tank Vent.
The least favorite part of my boat for maintenance is anything to do with the toilet and holding tank system. My Hanse 371 is now 20 years old, so of course many…
Another reason Amazon is taking over the World!
My boat has a teak planked cockpit, both seats and floor. It is glued down so no screws. I have never done anything to it except clean it with soap and water….