Monthly Archives: October 2014

Boating Lessons Learned: Engine Won’t Start

BLUF: This is a quick post to share with you a good website addressing one of the most common marine engine problems, the engine won’t start. The Family Handyman does a good job of showing us how to check the … Continue reading

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Boating Lessons Learned: Got to have a Back-up

BLUF:  It is good to have a back-up, and maybe even a back-up for my back-up. I never know when a mechanical or electrical failure will leave me dead in the water. That is why I find myself buying two … Continue reading

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Boating Lessons Learned: Burned Marine Electrical Shore Power Plug

BLUF: I reduce the risk of a burned shore power plug by selecting a marine grade plug, using marine grade wire, and applying anti-oxidant joint compound to the connections. I was helping a friend disconnect her shore power cord the … Continue reading

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Boating Lessons Learned: The Boating Family Thanksgiving

BLUF:  I love Thanksgiving dinner with our boating family.  Too bad Aunt Martha isn’t a boater too. I know it is a bit early in the season but I am looking forward to Thanksgiving.   I was talking to one … Continue reading

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Boating Lessons Learned: Women Taking the Wheel, Muscle Memory

BLUF: A new boat pilot who is learning the skills required to safely operate a boat benefits significantly from the development of muscle memory that allows them to subconsciously operate the boat’s controls. I recall one night back in the … Continue reading

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Boating Lessons Learned: Rebuilding a Carburetor

BLUF:  I need to be more observant and pay closer attention to the small details if I expect to improve my carburetor troubleshooting skills. I enjoy working on carburetors.  They are engineering and manufacturing works of art.  No other engine … Continue reading

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