Diluted samples of winterizing solution were observed for biological growth. Vodka acted like a magnet for microbes.
Much of your winterizing success will depend on the initial condition of your existing water system. If it is nearly sterile (effectively chlorinated water), there may be too few bacteria and fungus present for infection to start. However, if you use less than 20 percent alcohol or glycol (after dilution with water left in the system) you are at risk of biological growth; the lower the concentration the greater the risk. This is the reason why vodka and other alcohol-based winterizing fluids should be avoided. In our testing these solutions acted like an invitation to a microbial feast.
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Very interesting and informative, but useless in 2021 for most sailors who haul their boats for the winter. Publishing this on Dec 2nd after 98% of boats in the colder climates have been hauled and winterized already shows very poor planning or concern on your part. This article should have been published in late September or early October. I’ll save it for next year.
Hunter Marine unveiled its latest large cruising monohull, the Hunter 45DS, in late 2007. The boat is essentially an upgrade of the 44DS, with twin wheels, a new transom, new styling, and a roomier, reconfigured interior. Hunter has sold 152 hulls since the boats debut, making it a fairly successful endeavor. To increase the Hunter 45DSs interior volume, designer Glenn Henderson opted for relatively high freeboard and additional length. Henderson also matched a nearly elliptical rudder with a smaller keel. The 54-horsepower Yanmar auxiliary engine moved the Hunter through calm water at 8 knots at 3,000 rpm. Testers sailed the 45-footer in flat water and 13.5 knots of wind, making 5.8 knots and were able to tack through 110 degrees. The current base price of the Hunter is $268,990.
Very interesting and informative, but useless in 2021 for most sailors who haul their boats for the winter. Publishing this on Dec 2nd after 98% of boats in the colder climates have been hauled and winterized already shows very poor planning or concern on your part. This article should have been published in late September or early October. I’ll save it for next year.
Ron Canizares