Systems & Propulsion

The crud that is clogging my filters are microrganisms, primitive creatures that live in water and feed on oil, informally called “HUM-bugs.” The HUM stands for Hydrocarbon Utilizing Microorganisms. There are many kinds of HUM-bugs—bacteria and fungus (mold, yeast, algae, etc.). Some need oxygen, some don't. Many are airborne. Some thrive best in freshwater, some in salt. They all create thick slime, which helps them stick to surfaces and protect themselves from attack. It's unlikely that you can buy diesel fuel without getting some.

Marketing literature does a good job of promoting the primary advantages of lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP or LiFePo4), such as life expectancy, weight,...

Early in the sailing season, the things we overlooked during winter storage can come back to haunt us. And with regard to our boat's...

Let's dig into the truth to the 75-80% power reduction claims for Energy Recovery Watermakers, review some comparison data, chat with the inventors, and...

After my experience last weekend while hunting down odors on our project boat, the 1971 S&S-designed Yankee 30 Opal, I thought I’d revisit some...

This is the last of a three-part series describing the planning and installation of an inboard diesel engine in my previously engine-free Cape Dory...

This is Part II of a three-part series detailing the installation of a complete inboard engine system into our highly modified Cape Dory 36...

This is a three-part series detailing the installation of an inboard diesel engine into my modified Cape Dory 36 Far Reach. I rebuilt Far...

In the article “Is All-Electric Propulsion Practical on Small Sailboats?” we explored the current state of technology for all-electric marine propulsion. We concluded that...

The 18th century was the age of sail. The 19th century saw the introduction of steam propulsion and the 20th century witnessed the introduction...