Trolling Motor Test
Minn Kota's 3X steering and ergonomic features push the RT80/S-3X past the competition in the 80-lb. thrust class. In the 50-lb. class, we like the no-frills MotorGuide SW46 HT.
12-Volt Booster Packs
Wal-Mart's EverStart booster delivers a lot of cold cranking amps for the money, but lacks a light. The versatile Xantrex Powerpack 300 Plus, is a do-it-all booster and a good choice for smaller boats.
Cabin Heater Update
After a test report was published in the Jan. 1, 2005 issue on eight small portable electric heaters, a number of readers contacted Practical...
Portable Gas Generators
Excellent voltage stability gives the Yamaha top honors among the inverter-type gas generators. For a less expensive, but louder, option we'd take the Briggs & Stratton.
Portable Cabin Heaters
Among the 12V models, the Back Seat is tops; among the 110 V models, we like the Caframo; and the alcohol-powered Origo is always a reliable standby.
Washdown Pumps
If you need a lot of flow-and have the dough-get the Groco. Otherwise, we like the two models from Johnson and the $85 SHURflo.
Trolling Motor as Dinghy Auxiliary
Here's a dinghy-power option that might make sense — if your circumstances permit. It's quiet, clean, and cheap, but also slow, and may lack staying power.
Reintroducing Mr. Funnel
Clean diesel fuel is the first step toward proper engine maintenance. Thanks to an Alaska-based inventor, attaining perfection in that department has become easier and less expensive.
PS Advisor: 09/04
LEDs in EmergenceYou published a letter in your June 1 edition this year in which the writer questioned the feasibility of LED lights for...
EPIRB Update: 09/04
In the wake of independent tests conducted by the Equipped to Survive Foundation (ETS), wherein the GPS components of two EPIRB models from McMurdo...
Can a Normal Sailor Actually Buy a Foiling Dinghy Now?
Foiling sailboats used to belong to the extreme edge of the sport: America’s Cup teams, SailGP, Olympic sailors, Moths, kite foilers, and high-performance racing...
Latest Sailboat Reviews
Catalina 470 Used Boat Review
Although it conforms to CE ratings for ocean sailing, this boat is better suited for coastal cruising in comfort and short offshore passages. It's got a great set of layout options for living aboard.
