Search found 194 matches

by Capn_Tom
Tue Mar 15, 2011 8:58 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Sizing Battery Cable for Engine Battery
Replies: 4
Views: 1454

Re: Sizing Battery Cable for Engine Battery

I was expecting an answer today on the max starter draw from Beta but as yet I haven't heard back from them. The only information in the owners manual lists the starters output as 1.2 kw. I don't tend to think of starters in terms of output but then the Brits speak a bit differently than me. If this...
by Capn_Tom
Tue Mar 15, 2011 7:38 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Sizing Battery Cable for Engine Battery
Replies: 4
Views: 1454

Sizing Battery Cable for Engine Battery

The house side of my system has been completely replaced and I am confident that it is well designed based on the information found in this forum. With the impending arrival of my new Beta 38 engine I need to quickly complete the engine starting side of the system. I am having difficulty finding a g...
by Capn_Tom
Fri Jan 14, 2011 7:21 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: lOOKING FOR A HORIZONTAL MANUAL WINDLASS
Replies: 3
Views: 1417

Re: lOOKING FOR A HORIZONTAL MANUAL WINDLASS

Are you looking for a new or used manual windlass? If new contcat RC Plath at (503) 668-5757
by Capn_Tom
Fri Jan 14, 2011 7:14 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: lOOKING FOR A HORIZONTAL MANUAL WINDLASS
Replies: 3
Views: 1417

Re: lOOKING FOR A HORIZONTAL MANUAL WINDLASS

Are you looking for a new or used manual windlass? If new contcat RC Plath at (503) 668-5757
by Capn_Tom
Sun Dec 19, 2010 4:53 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Trident Flex Marine Hose OD
Replies: 2
Views: 537

Re: Trident Flex Marine Hose OD

Thanks Tim!
by Capn_Tom
Sun Dec 19, 2010 10:02 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Trident Flex Marine Hose OD
Replies: 2
Views: 537

Trident Flex Marine Hose OD

Does anyone have a piece of 1 1/2" Trident Flex Marine wire reinforced exhaust hose lying around that they can measure the OD on? I'm ordering some to use as drain hose and I can't find the OD listed anywhere. I want to order the AWAB hose clamps at the sime time and need to get the size right....
by Capn_Tom
Sat Dec 11, 2010 8:31 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: New batteries and charger
Replies: 31
Views: 3532

Re: New batteries and charger

Maine Sail,

Can you provide more detail on your custom copper bus bridging the ANL fuses? It certainly cleans up the installation compared to runnning individual wires from each fuse block to the positive bus.
by Capn_Tom
Mon Dec 06, 2010 8:44 pm
Forum: Pearson Triton Specifics
Topic: Galley sink drain
Replies: 13
Views: 4793

Re: Galley sink drain

How's this for a thread dredge? Figment did you end up using the groco tailpiece? I've been searching for solutions other than slipping the hose over a thin walled tailpiece and have considered both the groco solution and the pvc barb glued into an adaptor. I don't know what type of threads are used...
by Capn_Tom
Mon Dec 06, 2010 5:27 pm
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: electrical upgrade
Replies: 36
Views: 8594

Re: electrical upgrade

I've been following this discussion as I am about to purchase all new batteries. My plan has always beens 4 Trojan t-105s for the house bank. I have been struggling with placement primarily because I prefer to keep them all together. I've started considering the Trojan L16H or the US Battery equival...
by Capn_Tom
Sun Sep 26, 2010 4:51 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Seacocks / PTH fittings
Replies: 5
Views: 657

Re: Seacocks / PTH fittings

Rachel you are correct I was referring to the pipe to hose fitting. I get about 2 full turns by hand. Since no one has indicated that my understanding of the fittings is incorrect I will proceed. I am using the red frp material that Rachel used for backing plates. I'm using a Jasper Circle Guide wit...
by Capn_Tom
Fri Sep 24, 2010 4:08 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Seacocks / PTH fittings
Replies: 5
Views: 657

Seacocks / PTH fittings

I received my seacocks and related parts today. The seacocks are Apollo and the PTH fittings are Groco. Both items are lsted as NPT but the adaptors don't screw very far into the seacock (at least not easily). I am reluctant to apply force without some assurances because I don't want to damage the t...
by Capn_Tom
Fri Sep 24, 2010 7:12 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: The right goop?
Replies: 14
Views: 1832

Re: The right goop?

Picture?
by Capn_Tom
Thu Sep 23, 2010 7:41 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: Bronze Flathead Screws
Replies: 12
Views: 2317

Re: Bronze Flathead Screws

Am I missing something? Your dimmensions add up to 4" without the cleat. You have to love the fact that the 5" is twice the price of the 4". One thing I've noticed lately with Jamestowns' website is that in some cases the displayed price of a fastener is higher on the description page...
by Capn_Tom
Fri Sep 17, 2010 6:55 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Seacock Screw size
Replies: 4
Views: 775

Re: Seacock Screw size

Thank You!
by Capn_Tom
Wed Sep 15, 2010 9:09 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Seacock Screw size
Replies: 4
Views: 775

Seacock Screw size

Can anyone who has installed Apollo seacocks tell me what diameter machine screw they use. I cannot find this information anywhere and I wanted to order the screws at the same time I ordered the seacocks to combine shipping charges. I guess the aprox. thickness of the flange would be helpful also. T...
by Capn_Tom
Thu Aug 19, 2010 5:04 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Mast Painting Question
Replies: 8
Views: 1013

Re: Mast Painting Question

I've etched and primed the spreaders and boom so far and if the weather cooperates I'll etch and prime the mast this weekend. Looking ahead I need to replace the compression tubes for the tangs anyone have a good source for compression tubes?
by Capn_Tom
Thu Aug 19, 2010 1:10 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Mast Painting Question
Replies: 8
Views: 1013

Re: Mast Painting Question

It sounds like a typical range. I have 8 hours in hardware removal 8 hours in stripping and about 300 bucks in supplies so far. The fun part is that I won't really know if I did a good job until I see how long it lasts!
by Capn_Tom
Tue Jul 27, 2010 6:02 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Mast Painting Question
Replies: 8
Views: 1013

Mast Painting Question

I am preparing to paint my mast and boom with 2 part poly and I have a question. I have stripped the mast to bare aluminum. I have 2 internal tracks that were painted previously. I am certain that I will not be able to paint the internal tracks without leaving any drips which will cause the slides t...
by Capn_Tom
Thu Apr 01, 2010 7:01 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Building a cradle - Tips?
Replies: 6
Views: 794

Re: Building a cradle - Tips?

Is there a reason you have chosen to build a cradle rather than using boat stands?
by Capn_Tom
Wed Mar 17, 2010 7:07 am
Forum: Sails, Rigging, and Systems
Topic: Bending genoa T tracks
Replies: 6
Views: 2402

Re: Bending genoa T tracks

Really? Just spring it? I see myself being flung off the ladder as I tried to hold the track to a bend as I tried to drill the boltholes...pwuuunnng! When I was installing my rub rail i fabricated a U shaped jig and some wedges to hold it in place while I drilled and screwed. On a few occasions it ...
by Capn_Tom
Sat Feb 27, 2010 9:11 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Ericson 27 Project
Replies: 224
Views: 247130

Re: Ericson 27 Project

On my boat I call such issues "character"
by Capn_Tom
Wed Feb 24, 2010 7:59 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Varnishing locker doors
Replies: 11
Views: 1307

Re: Varnishing locker doors

I picked up some tiny screw eyes last night. Even if my results don't improve I'll cut my days of varnishing in half. Thanks for the tip!
by Capn_Tom
Tue Feb 23, 2010 8:26 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Varnishing locker doors
Replies: 11
Views: 1307

Re: Varnishing locker doors

Am I correct in assuming that it is best to alternate front and back rather than applying multiple coats to one side prior to varnishing the second side?
by Capn_Tom
Mon Feb 22, 2010 9:44 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Varnishing locker doors
Replies: 11
Views: 1307

Re: Varnishing locker doors

How do I reach your wife?
by Capn_Tom
Mon Feb 22, 2010 7:57 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Varnishing locker doors
Replies: 11
Views: 1307

Varnishing locker doors

I have 16 locker doors to varnish and based on past experience I expect problems. When I varnish a 2 sided item I invariably end up with varnish migrating to the underside only to be revealed the next day when I flip the piece over. The first coat isn't a problem as I can scrape away the offending b...
by Capn_Tom
Fri Feb 05, 2010 8:13 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Matching Philipine Mahogany
Replies: 5
Views: 659

Re: Matching Philipine Mahogany

Thanks for your recommendations. After visiting every exotic hardwood supplier in the Cincinnati area I ended up buying Sapele. The grain match on the boards I selected was pretty good and the color was close. $7.80 per bf was more than I had planned but fortunately I only needed 10.
by Capn_Tom
Thu Feb 04, 2010 8:17 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Matching Philipine Mahogany
Replies: 5
Views: 659

Re: Matching Philipine Mahogany

It's times like these I question my decision to refit a boat in the middle of the country. I've checked for meranti at my usual hardwood sources with no luck. I have 2 more places to check today. If I strike out I'll flip a coin and hope for the best!
by Capn_Tom
Wed Feb 03, 2010 9:25 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Matching Philipine Mahogany
Replies: 5
Views: 659

Matching Philipine Mahogany

I just confirmed with the original builder of my boat that the rails and stiles of the locker doors were made from philipine mahogany. I recognize that philipine mahogany is not really mahogany and could actually be one of a few different species. It smells like luan. I have not been able to locate ...
by Capn_Tom
Mon Jan 11, 2010 7:30 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Boat fire residue cleanup
Replies: 6
Views: 970

Re: Boat fire residue cleanup

I would try trisodium phosphate. If that fails make some calls to one of the many companies that specialize in fire restoration and see if they will pass on some trade secrets.
by Capn_Tom
Tue Dec 29, 2009 9:10 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: What Kind of Grease for ABI 1000BR Windlass
Replies: 10
Views: 1034

Re: What Kind of Grease for ABI 1000BR Windlass

John, I have the RC Plath windlass which other than the chain pipes is identical to the ABI. Mine is pretty much frozen but appears to be in good shape. It is currently soaking in some kerosene but this hasn't proven effective. I have been afraid to attempt dissasembly since any error could prove fa...
by Capn_Tom
Mon Dec 07, 2009 7:18 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Negative Bus Bar
Replies: 4
Views: 847

Re: Negative Bus Bar

The new 20 position busbar arrived and is installed. Now a rant in the form of a question. In Blue Sea's limited instructions for their 16 circuit distribution panel they reference the assumption that the positive feed will be at least 2 awg. Since the smallest ring terminal available for a 2 awg wi...
by Capn_Tom
Mon Nov 30, 2009 6:23 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Negative Bus Bar
Replies: 4
Views: 847

Re: Negative Bus Bar

Thanks for clearing my mental block. As much time as I've spent on Blue Sea's site I should have come up with that on my own.
by Capn_Tom
Sun Nov 29, 2009 7:25 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Negative Bus Bar
Replies: 4
Views: 847

Negative Bus Bar

I am installing a new distibution panel and have run into a snag. My intention was to not use the negative bus on the back of the panel but rather route all of the negative returns from the circuits to a terminal strip located behind the distribution panel. The terminal strip was to be connected to ...
by Capn_Tom
Mon Nov 09, 2009 7:13 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: What a day!
Replies: 1
Views: 461

Re: What a day!

If the difference in the diameter of the exisiting hole and the planned hole is not that great I would do as you suggest and just build it up with solid glass. If you were to core it with plywood you would cut the core back from the opening of the new hole and fill the void with thickened epoxy to s...
by Capn_Tom
Thu Oct 15, 2009 5:58 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Caprail replacement with Ipe
Replies: 9
Views: 2016

Re: Caprail replacement with Ipe

I got this project to the 90% complete stage a while back but as is typical for me moved on to other projects before completing the last few details. I did at least take some pictures today before covering up for the long winter nap.

Image
by Capn_Tom
Thu Oct 08, 2009 6:12 pm
Forum: Ramblings
Topic: Facts, opinions, and flames
Replies: 8
Views: 1510

Re: Facts, opinions, and flames

What ever you do, do not suggest the use of both Teflon tape and pipe dope to be used together
My 2 favorite materials next to wire nuts and electrical tape!
by Capn_Tom
Wed Oct 07, 2009 7:47 am
Forum: Boat Shops and Facilities
Topic: Shelter question
Replies: 20
Views: 6369

Re: Shelter question

If you plan to stick with your current structure but want to change the cover you might consider a recycled billboard tarp. http://www.billboardtarps.com They are much heavier than normal tarps so they do not blow around as much (though 70 mph winds are going to be a challenge). They also don't defl...
by Capn_Tom
Tue Oct 06, 2009 6:00 pm
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Foil as radiant barrier
Replies: 11
Views: 1941

Re: Foil as radiant barrier

Robert, That was the best explanation I have read even after a thorough Google search on the subject. There is a lot of propaganda by manufaturers of foil faced insulation and plenty of urban legend out there but little hard data. What percentage of boats do you think have foil wrapped ice boxes cov...
by Capn_Tom
Mon Oct 05, 2009 4:54 pm
Forum: Boatbuilding and Repair Techniques
Topic: Foil as radiant barrier
Replies: 11
Views: 1941

Foil as radiant barrier

I am insulating the underside of my cabintop with 3/8" volara foam. Some suggest using a layer of foil as a radiant barrier between the foam and cabintop. I must confess my physics is a bit dated but it seems to me that absent an air space between the foil and foam there would be no benefit fro...
by Capn_Tom
Wed Sep 02, 2009 6:46 am
Forum: Projects
Topic: Ericson 27 Project
Replies: 224
Views: 247130

Re: Ericson 27 Project

With regards to sanding or not sanding the old non skid: You can maintain the existing/ create new smooth areas between sections of non skid to maintain/ create visual interest.
by Capn_Tom
Thu Aug 27, 2009 6:40 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Handrail installation
Replies: 8
Views: 963

Re: Handrail installation

Another great illustrated guide! His articles are better than any book on boat repair I have.
by Capn_Tom
Thu Aug 27, 2009 6:32 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Cutting Bronze
Replies: 7
Views: 818

Re: Cutting Bronze

Rachel - any hole in a boat gives me pause! When I rebuilt my deck scuppers I used the technique you describe and fabricated oval fiberglass tubes and glassed them in in place of the brass tubes. The original Westsails had spun brass hawse pipes the new ones are heavy bronze castings. The hose that ...
by Capn_Tom
Wed Aug 26, 2009 6:35 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Cutting Bronze
Replies: 7
Views: 818

Re: Cutting Bronze

Wow! That was a detailed response. The 2 castings are round and the same diameter. The installation is through an open bulwark. The seal is acheived by caulking and installing a piece of thick walled hose around the outside of the casting. Are you refering to an angle grinder, a bench grinder or som...
by Capn_Tom
Tue Aug 25, 2009 8:15 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Cutting Bronze
Replies: 7
Views: 818

Cutting Bronze

I cut the holes for my new hawse pipes but i need to trim one side of the bronze casting (x6) to make them fit the depth of the bulwark. I of course would like to end up with a smooth intersection between the two pieces. Any advise on tools/ technique for cutting bronze would be appreciated.
by Capn_Tom
Sun Aug 23, 2009 6:05 pm
Forum: Technical Data and Boat Nerdery
Topic: Voltage Drop?
Replies: 7
Views: 2909

Re: Voltage Drop?

It is possible if you size the cable properly. Use a standard voltage drop table with the length of your run (positive and negative) and the total amperage of your panel.
by Capn_Tom
Sun Aug 23, 2009 1:51 pm
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Handrail installation
Replies: 8
Views: 963

Re: Handrail installation

I'll be overdrilling the holes and filling with epoxy. This should solve any core issues. I appreciate all the guidance thus far.
by Capn_Tom
Sun Aug 23, 2009 9:11 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Handrail installation
Replies: 8
Views: 963

Re: Handrail installation

Excellent points on the threading and depth of screw issues. I'm still inclined to throughbolt incorporating your sugestions. The screws will be aprox. 3 3/8" and countersunk 1/2" into the top of the rails. There will be 7 screws in the 6 loop rail. Is a #10 screw of this length strong eno...
by Capn_Tom
Sat Aug 22, 2009 11:42 am
Forum: Questions and Answers
Topic: Handrail installation
Replies: 8
Views: 963

Handrail installation

I'm about to begin installing new handrails and am looking for advice. I have a 6,5, and 2 loop teak handrail on each side. The holes for the old rails were filled when I refinnished the cabintop. My plan is to drill a 3/8" countersink and drill a hole for a #10 pan head machine screw in the to...
by Capn_Tom
Sun Aug 02, 2009 10:05 am
Forum: Materials, Sources, and Innovations
Topic: PVC Tarp
Replies: 9
Views: 5778

Re: PVC Tarp

I received my used billboard tarp on Friday and put it on the boat yesterday. The advertisement was for Verizon Wireless with the large group of people. I was tempted to put it on with the ad message showing but decided that might be the final straw with my neighbors. The tarp appears to be very str...