Tagged: spring commissioning
Spring Plan
There’s something to be said for a good plan. Activities as simple as painting the boat bottom just go better when you plan ahead in terms of the processes and supplies involved. For example, sanding typically involves: sander, electrical cord, correct grit sandpaper, gloves, goggles, mask, hat, gloves, and rags. Painting involves: paint, paint can opener, small paint carrier, correct rollers and handle, brushes, gloves, goggles, tape, rags, paint cleaner, etc. Now, obviously the fore mentioned list could be crafted by anyone that has done bottom painting before. The issue lies in being too casual about the planning process, and [...]
Just a Scootch
Spring is starting to unfold and we’re headed into the spring commissioning process. Now, if you’re somewhat of a DIYer, you understand that commissioning involves a lot of different activities: tightening belts; changing plugs; replacing thermostats and water pump impellers; connecting battery cables, etc. One thing you may or may not initially recollect is that new parts are not always quite what you expected and even installed parts can be off, just a scootch. For example I’ve changed thermostat housings only to find that the new gaskets supplied in the kit didn’t seal as well as the old gaskets being [...]
Slippery Conditions
The weather is starting to turn and spring commissioning activities are coming up fast. All sorts of things are on the “to do” list – washing, waxing, tuning, and painting, just to name a few. If you’ve done them before, none of them are particularly challenging, they just take time and effort. But, never let go of the thought that even the most basic chores can be dangerous. When you’re walking on wet foredecks with last year’s topsiders, it is all too easy to slip and fall onto the pavement below. And when you’re reconnecting the battery cables, sparks can [...]
Tool Time
It’s getting to be that time again, time to work on the boat. As every experienced hand knows, to be productive, you need a good plan, the right tools, and appropriate supplies. The correct tools can make a real difference in getting traction in the job at hand and avoiding wasted time. The short list includes: Metric and American ratchet and socket sets, vice grips, screwdrivers, box wrenches, pliers, knives, electric sanders and cordless drills, along with specialized tools unique to your engine and systems. You want the tools to be sharp, and charged if necessary, and of the correct [...]
Smart Boating 238 – Spring Commissioning
This show focuses on a number of important points to consider in the spring commissioning process.
Spring Commissioning
Well, it’s finally time to remove the winter cover and get started on preparing the boat for launch. On any craft beyond a canoe or rowboat there are a plethora of tasks that need attention, from corroded running light sockets to sticky thru- hulls. And, these days, needed parts are oftentimes caught up in CV-19 related delays. Experience has shown that checklists help ensure all the relevant items, from large to small, are covered. To illuminate the key points in a typical commission process, a TV show is planned for release shortly. Invest time in a thoughtful commissioning process and [...]
Smart Boating 216 – Spring Commissioning
This show reviews some of the key points within the spring commissioning process.
Spring Commissioning
Spring Commissioning It’s that time of year again, time to unwrap the boat and get ready for more adventures on the high seas. If a dealer or boatyard is taking care of the commissioning duties, it’s highly likely they’ll use a checklist to ensure all items are covered. And, if you’re doing it yourself, you should consider using a checklist, too. Some obvious checklist points include: wash and wax the hull and topsides; clean and oil the teak; sand and paint the bottom; and check to ensure all safety equipment from PFDs to fire extinguishers is operational. A few less [...]