Boat Maintenance
#HOW TO - Sail Magazine have posted a valuable video guide demonstrating how to set a kedge anchor for your vessel. Every boat should carry a minimum of two anchors to give you security should the wind shift or pick…
After weeks of snow a thaw is underway across Ireland today but melting snow will produce even more difficulties for boat owners. For starters boats without an automatic bilge pump can end up flooded but even if fitted prolonged pump…
Afloat magazine profiles Noonan Boats, one of the country’s leading repair facilities From collision damage, keel fairing right up to osmosis treatments and re-sprays, Noonan boatyard in Newcastle, Greystones Co. Wicklow offers such a comprehensive service on the East Coast…
EquipmentWarps and ropes should be left somewhere dry, whilst fenders can be cleaned and stored safely. If a dinghy is carried on davits, one winter left hanging can equate to four seasons of normal wear, so take it home. The…
Wash the bilges and dry them thoroughly. This has the two-fold effect of eliminating nasty bilge smells and makes the task of checking the interior mouldings and laminates for stress fractures easier. Ventilation is very important to stop mildew forming…
Of all the equipment on the boat, electronic gear can cause the most trouble if not winterised. WD40 can be used in most instances and for battery connections, exposed sockets and plugs, Vaseline is a great protector.The batteries must be…
Just before hauling the boat from the water, run the engine for 10–15 minutes until it reaches operating temperature, then change the lube oil and filter, as contaminates in the old oil can cause corrosion. Disconnect the cooling water supply…
At least every six months, all lifejackets should be inflated orally or by hand pump to avoid moisture build up inside the jacket, and left inflated for 24 hours to ensure they hold their pressure and to see if there…
It’s good to know that there’s several sectors finding an increased demand for their services. For instance, boat transport is not always something that owners can do themselves, especially the movement of large boats. What might look small on water…
Marinas are keen to attract new business and will offer attractive rates to get new clients. Most marinas will aim to entice you with a short term deal in the hope that if you enjoy the experience they might turn…
It seems you only put it in the water and the next thing is the kids are back at school and you’re driving home from work with your headlights on. There’s no escaping it, there’s a nip in the air,…
Winterising Your Boat The whole idea of winterisation can be about as appealing as having a tooth filled – and possibly as expensive – but there’s no substitute for being prepared, and a reluctance to cough up the necessary budget…
