Given the current level of fuel prices and their volatility, it’s a good idea to be aware of fuel economy when shopping for a new or used boat. Then … [Read more...]
The Boat-Tow Truck I Wish Someone Would Build
May 24, 2012 By 5 Comments
After towing a 4,200-pound boat trailer with Volkswagen’s fantastic Touareg TDI, I was amazed at the fuel economy. By keeping the cruise engaged at 60 … [Read more...]
Boat Trailer Brakes: Surge vs. Electric-over-Hydraulic
April 30, 2012 By Leave a Comment
There are plenty of advantages to owning a trailerable boat as opposed to one that you keep in a slip or on a mooring. If you're shopping for such a boat, … [Read more...]
Prop Primer: A Short Course in Propeller Terminology
April 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment
If you’re new to boating, or you're considering buying a boat that's unfamiliar to you, you’ll need to devote some attention to the matter of propellers … [Read more...]
Boat Trailer Chains: The Art of Hooking Up
April 17, 2012 By 2 Comments
If you're thinking of buying a trailerable boat, remember that there are two types of people at the launch ramp – those who are prepared and those who … [Read more...]
Propeller Choice: A Lesson in the Basics
April 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment
The speed bug bites everyone, and it will bite you. Your boat does 48 mph and you want it to top 50 mph, if for no other reason than to be able to brag … [Read more...]
High-Altitude Boating: Where Did the Power Go?
March 29, 2012 By 2 Comments
All but two of highest lakes in the United States are in Colorado. The highest, for information’s sake, is Lake Muriel in Washington, but it’s more … [Read more...]
Boat Wiring Is Not Car Wiring. Honest.
March 22, 2012 By 3 Comments
Believe it or not, the electrical system in your boat faces a foe more sinister than the ravages of time or the harshness of the marine environment. Your … [Read more...]
Used Boat Shopping: Caveat Emptor
March 14, 2012 By 1 Comment
Having spent time at the Miami Boat Show this year, I still feel a bit dizzied from the shimmer of polished stainless and the intoxicating smell of fresh … [Read more...]
Anodes for Outboards and Outdrives
March 10, 2012 By 3 Comments
Scientists discovered a couple of centuries ago that when you fasten two metals together in seawater, electrons will flow from the more active metal, the … [Read more...]