What’s the Best Anode Material?
Every fall, as the hauled-out boats are sardined into boatyards, a walking tour reveals the casualties from the underwater war. Saildrives are deeply pitted...
Freeing Seized Hardware
Step three, when necessary, use a combination of heat and cold. I use a simple propane torch to heat up the surrounding area and...
Silencing The Iron Genny
I really need to reduce the noise of our engine. Everyone seems to want to line the engine box to dampen noise. That scenario...
The Best Marine Varnish: Exterior Wood Finish Tests
Like spotting land after a long passage, were glad to say that the end of our long-term exterior wood finishes test is finally on...
Mailport: Noise control, outboard maintenance, fuel tanks, powerline safety
A RESOUNDING CLARIFICATION
Regarding the blog post, “Reducing Boat Noise,” I wonder if this is correct: “The actual noise level in the cabin will depend...
Wrapping Stainless Steel for Better Grip
The very first project tackled on my new-to-me catamaran a decade ago was to wrap the helm wheel with line. Our delivery trip home...
The Great Metal Polish Showdown
Practical Sailor last tested metal polishes in March 2007, and the best choice for most jobs was the Miracle Cloth. The treated cloths best...
Giving Bugs the Big Goodbye
We're not naturally bug phobic, but when they eat our food, clothes, or boat, something needs to be done. Since we don't like heavy...
Marine Sealant Adhesion Tests
We expect a lot from adhesive sealants for the marine environment. They must stick to a wide variety of surfaces, including gelcoat, aluminum, wood,...
A Smart, Easy Way to Rewire
Running the wires for new electronics requires your best cursing vocabulary, lots of sweat, twisting body contortions, luck, and the occasional bandage. For tips...