Systems & Propulsion

Battery Monitors: The E-Meter Vs. the Sophisticated SALT

In the February 15, 1997 issue, we reviewed battery monitors and stated that Cruising Equipments E-Meter was the only one of the four models...

Crimp Connections: AMP Super Champ and Ancor Our Top Picks

One of the most nettlesome areas of boating electronics is making dependable wire connections that will last for years. Because marine elements are conspiring...

5-Model Genset Bench Test

An article in the June, 1997 issue about small gensets struck a chord with readers. The report was of the type we call a...

Odyssey: A Lightweight 12-volt With Punch

The first thing we can tell you about the 12-volt Odyssey battery is that it came in the mail—UPS to be exact—which is an...

Offshore Log: Shurflo Pump Lacks Oomph

Our Shurflo pump has been a disappointment. At the time we installed it, it was the highest-capacity pump of its style available, and smaller...

Solar Panel Performance Test

Charging batteries is a never-ending problem aboard most boats. Long-term cruisers usually have several ways to replace consumed battery capacity-engine-driven alternators, solar panels, wind...

Offshore Log: A Caribbean-built Wind Generator

For the serious cruiser, efficient power generation ranks right up there with an abundant supply of fresh water; without it, life is a real...

The Expensive Rolls Still a Best Buy in Deep Cycle Batteries

Traditional lead-acid (flooded) batteries have been with us for decades. The basic technology has been improved and refined, but still remains the same chemical...

Cabin Fan Test: Hella, Caframo Blow Best Breeze for the Buck

There are lots of things that can make being aboard a boat unpleasant. Among them: Too little wind, seasickness, crowded waterways, rain, guests with...

Offshore Log: An Evolution in EPIRBs

Sailing shorthanded makes you think a lot about safety. Even after you develop confidence in your boats ability to take what the ocean hands...

What Is The Best Folding Bike For Your Sailboat?

This week we explore what the best folding bike is to keep on your sailboat and compare the time honored Dahon Folding Bike with...