Month: January 2023

Problems With Ethanol Fuel In Boats

Ethanol fuel has been widely used in boats for many years, but it is not without its problems. As a boater, it’s important to understand the potential issues with ethanol fuel and take steps to protect your engine and fuel system. In this article, we will explore the problems with ethanol fuel in boats and provide tips on how to minimize these issues.

One of the main problems with ethanol fuel is its corrosiveness. Ethanol, being an alcohol, can cause damage to the fuel system, including the fuel tank, hoses, and filters. This can lead to leaks, clogs, and even engine failure over time.

Another issue with ethanol fuel is its hygroscopic nature. Ethanol absorbs water, which can lead to the formation of water droplets in the fuel tank. This can cause the engine to run poorly or stall, and can also lead to the growth of microorganisms in the fuel tank, causing further damage.

Ethanol fuel also has a lower energy content than gasoline, which means it does not provide the same amount of power. This can lead to a reduction in engine performance and can cause the engine to run hotter. This can be particularly problematic for boats used for high-performance activities such as water skiing or wakeboarding.

Ethanol fuel is also more likely to cause vapor lock, a condition where fuel vaporizes in the fuel system and causes the engine to stall. This can be caused by high temperatures or a faulty fuel system.

To minimize the problems with ethanol fuel, boaters can take steps to protect their engine and fuel system. They can use fuel stabilizers to prevent corrosion and use a fuel filter specifically designed for ethanol fuel. Regularly checking the fuel system for leaks and clogs, and keeping the fuel tank as full as possible to reduce the amount of air in the tank can also help.

Another solution is to switch to a non-ethanol gasoline. It’s important to check with the manufacturer of your boat and engine to make sure that they are compatible with the type of fuel you plan to use.

By understanding the potential problems with ethanol fuel and taking the appropriate steps to protect your engine and fuel system, you can continue to enjoy boating without interruption.

Marine Chart Reading Basics

Reading a marine chart can seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it becomes an essential tool for any boater or sailor. A marine chart is a detailed map of a specific area of water, including information about depth, hazards, and navigational aids. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of how to read a marine chart and make the most of this valuable resource.

First, let’s start by understanding the different types of marine charts. There are two main types of charts: paper charts and electronic charts. While paper charts are still widely used, electronic charts have become increasingly popular in recent years. They offer many advantages over paper charts, such as the ability to zoom in and out, search for specific locations, and overlay weather and radar information.

Regardless of whether you are using a paper chart or an electronic chart, the first step in reading a marine chart is to identify the key elements. These include the title block, the compass rose, the scale bar, and the legend. The title block provides information about the chart, such as the date it was last updated and the chart’s number. The compass rose shows the direction of true north, while the scale bar shows the relationship between the distances on the chart and the actual distances on the water. The legend contains important information about the symbols and abbreviations used on the chart.

Next, take a look at the different colors and symbols used on the chart. Each color and symbol represents a different feature, such as depth contours, rocks, and buoys. It’s important to understand what each symbol represents so that you can properly interpret the information on the chart.

When using a marine chart, it’s also essential to understand the concept of “chart datum.” Chart datum is the reference level from which all depth measurements are taken. It’s typically the lowest astronomical tide and is marked on the chart as a bold dashed line. Any depths shown on the chart are relative to chart datum, so it’s important to keep this in mind when interpreting the information.

Once you understand the basics of how to read a marine chart, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Start by finding your current location on the chart and identify any nearby hazards or navigational aids. Then, plan your route by taking into account the water depth, currents, and other factors that may affect your journey.

In conclusion, reading a marine chart is a skill that takes practice, but with a little bit of knowledge and experience, it will become an essential tool for any boater or sailor. It’s important to understand the key elements of a marine chart, the different colors and symbols used, and the concept of chart datum. By following these tips and continually practicing, you’ll be able to confidently navigate the waters and make the most of your time on the water.

Mayday or Pan Pan – How to call a Mayday or a Pan Pan. Know what term to use and why.

A mayday call is a distress signal used by mariners to indicate a life-threatening emergency. It is considered the highest level of urgency in marine radio communications and should only be used in the most dire of circumstances. In contrast, a PAN PAN call is used to indicate a less urgent situation such as a mechanical failure, but still requiring assistance.

Recreational boaters should be familiar with the proper protocol for making a mayday call in case of an emergency. The first step is to activate the boat’s Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) if one is on board. The EPIRB will automatically transmit the boat’s location to search and rescue authorities, making it easier for them to locate the vessel in distress.

Next, the boater should use the VHF radio to make a mayday call. The proper format for a mayday call is as follows:

“MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY. This is (vessel name and call sign) on (channel frequency). Our position is (latitude and longitude or location description) We are in (type of emergency) and require immediate assistance. Over.”

It is important to provide as much information as possible in the mayday call, including the vessel’s name and call sign, location, type of emergency, and the number of people on board. This will help search and rescue authorities respond quickly and efficiently.

Once the mayday call has been made, it is important to keep the VHF radio tuned to the channel used for the call and to listen for any instructions or updates from search and rescue authorities.

In the case of a PAN PAN call the format is similar, the phrase “PAN PAN” is used instead of “MAYDAY”, and the urgency of the situation is described. The format is:

“PAN PAN, PAN PAN, PAN PAN. This is (vessel name and call sign) on (channel frequency). Our position is (latitude and longitude or location description) We are experiencing (type of emergency) and require assistance. Over.”

It is important to note that while a PAN PAN call is less urgent than a mayday call, it should still be treated as a serious situation and requires immediate action.

When making a mayday or PAN PAN call, it is important to use a VHF radio. VHF radios have a limited range, typically around 20 to 25 miles, and the range can be affected by the terrain, the weather conditions, and the power level of the radio. Modern VHF radios have a power output of 25 watts, which can be decreased to as low as 1 watt in low power mode, making it more energy efficient but with a limited range.

It is also important to note that VHF radios are line-of-sight communications, meaning that the radio waves travel in a straight line and can be blocked by obstacles such as hills, buildings, or other boats. This can limit the range of the radio and make it more difficult to establish contact with search and rescue authorities.

In conclusion, a mayday call should only be used in the most serious of emergencies, and recreational boaters should be familiar with the proper protocol for making a mayday call. A PAN PAN call is used in less urgent situations, but still requiring assistance. It’s important to use a VHF radio, be aware of its limitations in regards to range and power, and always have an EPIRB on board in case of an emergency. Knowing the proper protocol and having the right equipment can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation on the water.

Planing VS Displacement Hulls What Is Best For You?

Boat hulls are designed with different displacement types to suit different boating purposes and environments. The two main types of hulls are planing and displacement. Understanding the difference between these two types of hulls and their pros and cons can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a boat.

A planing hull is designed to lift itself out of the water and “plane” on top of the water at high speeds. This type of hull is typically found on powerboats, such as sportboats and runabouts. The benefits of a planing hull include increased speed and maneuverability, as well as a smoother ride in choppy waters. These types of boats are suitable for watersports and recreational boating.

On the other hand, a displacement hull is designed to move through the water, rather than on top of it. This type of hull is typically found on sailboats, trawlers, and other slow-moving boats. Displacement hulls have a more efficient design that allows them to move through the water with less drag, which makes them ideal for long-distance cruising and navigating in calm waters.

One of the main benefits of a displacement hull is its fuel efficiency. These boats are designed to move through the water with minimal resistance, which means they use less fuel than planing hulls. This makes them a great choice for boaters who want to save money on fuel costs and for boaters who want to be more environmentally friendly.

Another benefit of a displacement hull is its ability to handle rough seas. These boats have a more stable and comfortable ride in rough waters, thanks to their design that allows them to cut through waves rather than bouncing over them. This makes them a great choice for boaters who plan to spend a lot of time on the water in rough seas.

However, displacement hulls also have some drawbacks. One of the main downsides is their speed. These boats are not designed to plane on top of the water, so they typically have a lower top speed than planing hulls. This makes them less suitable for watersports and recreational boating.

Another drawback of displacement hulls is their maneuverability. These boats are not as agile as planing hulls, which can make them more difficult to handle in tight spaces or crowded marinas.

In conclusion, both planing and displacement hulls have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Planing hulls are better suited for recreational boating, watersports, and high-speed travel, while displacement hulls are better suited for long-distance cruising, navigating in rough seas, and conserving fuel. It’s important to consider the type of boating you plan on doing, as well as the waters you’ll be navigating, when deciding on the type of hull that’s right for you.

Chart Plotters And Our Favorite Plotter for Recreational Boaters

Marine chart plotters are essential navigation tools for recreational boaters. They allow boaters to plot and follow a course, view detailed nautical charts, and access important information such as water depths, navigation hazards, and marina locations. To use a chart plotter, boaters must first purchase and install electronic nautical charts, also known as ENCs, onto the device. These charts can be purchased from a variety of sources, including government agencies and private companies. Once the charts are installed, boaters can use the chart plotter’s touchscreen interface to pan and zoom around the chart, view important information such as water depths, and plot a course by simply touching the screen. Chart plotters also come equipped with a variety of advanced features, such as the ability to overlay weather information and radar images, and connect to other navigation devices, such as GPS and autopilot systems.

One of the most important features of a chart plotter is its ability to display real-time data, such as the boat’s speed, heading, and location. This information can be used to navigate safely and efficiently, and can also help boaters avoid potential hazards. Another important feature of chart plotters is their ability to connect to other devices, such as VHF radios and AIS transceivers. This allows boaters to stay in communication with other boats and marinas, and also helps to improve safety on the water.

When choosing a chart plotter for a recreational boat, it is important to consider the size of the screen, the resolution of the display, and the overall user-friendliness of the device. It is also important to consider the type of boating you will be doing, as some chart plotters are better suited for specific types of boating, such as fishing or cruising.

For recreational boaters, we recommend the Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 74CV. It offers a large, 7-inch high-resolution display and a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and plot a course. The Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 74CV also comes equipped with advanced features such as wireless connectivity, allowing you to share data with other devices and access detailed weather information. Additionally, it has preloaded BlueChart g3 charts and it can connect to other devices like a Panoptix all-seeing sonar, so you can get a live view of the underwater environment.

With the Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 74CV, you can also overlay weather information and radar images, and connect to other navigation devices, such as GPS and autopilot systems. This allows you to stay informed and make better decisions while out on the water.

The chart plotter also has a built-in quick-draw feature, allowing you to draw on the chart and mark key locations, such as fishing spots or waypoints, which can be easily shared with other boaters. This can be a great feature for recreational boaters who like to fish or explore new areas.

Another great feature of the Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 74CV is its ability to connect to other devices wirelessly, such as smartphones or tablets, using the free ActiveCaptain app. This allows you to access detailed weather information, share location data, and receive software updates without having to connect a cable.

The Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 74CV also has a built-in sonar functionality and it supports both traditional and advanced sonar technologies like CHIRP, ClearVu, and SideVu, giving you a clear and detailed view of the underwater environment.

The device also has a built-in keyed-assist feature, which makes it easy to operate even in rough conditions. The keyed-assist feature makes the device easier to use and control no matter the conditions.

10 Essential Boating Safety Items

Boating safety equipment is essential to ensure the safety of you and your passengers while on the water. Here are ten examples of boating safety equipment that every boat owner should have on board:

  1. Life jackets: Always wear a life jacket while on the water. Make sure to have enough life jackets on board for every passenger, and that they are the proper size and type for the intended user.
  2. Fire extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher on board and easily accessible in case of fire. Check the expiration date regularly and make sure it is in good working condition.
  3. Flare: Always carry flares in a waterproof container. Use them to signal for help in case of emergency. Check the expiration date regularly.
  4. First aid kit: Keep a first aid kit on board at all times, including basic medical supplies such as band-aids, gauze, and antiseptic wipes.
  5. VHF radio: Use a VHF radio to communicate with other boats or shore-based rescue teams in case of an emergency. Keep the radio in a dry, easily accessible location and check the battery level regularly.
  6. Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): Carry a PLB to send out a distress signal to rescue teams in case of an emergency. It is a good idea to have one on board, especially if you are planning on boating in remote areas.
  7. Throwable flotation device: Keep a throwable flotation device on board and within easy reach. Use it to rescue someone who has fallen overboard.
  8. Bilge pump: Use a bilge pump to remove water from the boat in case of a leak or other emergency. Keep the pump in a dry, easily accessible location and check the battery level regularly.
  9. Navigation lights: Use navigation lights to signal your location to other boats at night or in low visibility conditions. Check the battery level and keep the lights in good working condition.
  10. Anchor: Always carry an anchor on board. Use it to secure your boat in case of an emergency. Keep the anchor in a dry, easily accessible location and check the line for wear and tear.

It is important to note that the above are just examples of the various equipment that can be considered as a part of boating safety. Different boats may require different equipment depending on the nature of the boating and the intended use. Also, it is important to check the expiration dates of any items that have a shelf life and to ensure that all of your safety equipment is in good working condition. Remember, safety should always be a top priority when boating and having the proper safety equipment on board can help you be prepared for any emergency situation.

 

Dripless Shaft Seals

Dripless shaft seals are an essential component of a boat’s propulsion system, helping to prevent water from entering the boat’s hull and causing damage. These seals consist of a stationary part, which is mounted to the boat’s hull, and a rotating part, which is attached to the shaft. When the shaft turns, the rotating part of the seal spins against the stationary part, creating a barrier that keeps water out of the boat.

One of the key components of a dripless shaft seal is the lip seal, which is made of a flexible material such as rubber or silicone. As the shaft turns, the lip seal compresses against the stationary part, forming a tight seal. Additionally, some dripless shaft seals also incorporate a water-lubricated bearing, which helps to reduce friction and wear on the seal. This bearing is typically made of a durable material such as ceramic or Teflon.

Dripless shaft seals differ from traditional, or “packing” shaft seals, in that they don’t require the use of packing material to create a seal. Packing material is often made of a braided rope or cord, which is compressed around the shaft to form a seal. The problem with packing material is that it can become worn over time, causing leaks and requiring frequent maintenance. Dripless shaft seals, on the other hand, are designed to be more durable and require less maintenance, making them a more reliable option for boat owners.

Another advantage of dripless shaft seals is that they don’t rely on the boat’s engine to create a seal. In traditional packing seals, the engine must be running in order to compress the packing material and create a seal. This can be problematic in the event of an engine failure, as water can flood the boat’s hull. Dripless shaft seals, on the other hand, create a seal independent of the engine, providing an added layer of protection in case of an emergency.

Overall, dripless shaft seals are a reliable and efficient way to keep water out of the boat’s hull, helping to prolong the life of the propulsion system and protect the boat from damage. They require less maintenance, are more durable and provide an added layer of protection in case of an emergency. They are considered to be a better option than traditional packing seals for boat owners.