Author Archives: McManus Boat Works

About McManus Boat Works

I have been boating and maintaining boats since 1966. I have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and am a life long student of boats, boat systems, and boat design. I am a fresh water boater that has been blessed with some great mentors over the years who have gladly shared their knowledge and skills.

Boating Lessons Learned: An Arranged Meeting

Posted on January 20, 2015 by McManus Boat Works

Have you ever met a stranger and knew right away that the meeting was arranged? That this is no accident.  Somehow you know that your purpose for the next few minutes is to be right here talking to this person. … Continue reading →

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Boating Lessons Learned: Everyday is a Friday

Posted on December 13, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

People laugh when they hear how we came to live on our boat. For years we had been dreaming of the day when we could retire, sell the house, and move onto the boat full time. We dreamed of untying … Continue reading →

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Boating Lessons Learned: Marrying Well

Posted on December 11, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

BLUF: Marrying Well.  Most of us have heard the phrase as in “Wow Charlie sure married well.  He doesn’t have two nickels to rub together but she is set to inherit millions.” Well I’m one of those blessed individuals that … Continue reading →

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Boating Lessons Learned: DC Water Pump Loses its Prime

Posted on December 3, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

BLUF: Air trapped in a pump housing can prevent it from being primed even if a solid column of water is supplied to the pump. It is not uncommon for the water storage tank to run low and the water … Continue reading →

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Boating Lessons Learned: Engine Won’t Start

Posted on October 16, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

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

Posted on October 8, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

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

Posted on October 6, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

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

Posted on October 2, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

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

Posted on October 2, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

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

Posted on October 1, 2014 by McManus Boat Works

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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