Projects
We are ready to consider our galley appliances. We want to use electricity for cooking for multiple reasons including reducing the types of fuel we have to source and carry, and heat in the tropics. Additionally, we’re exploring how we can reclaim some of the countertop space for food
Refit
Our very first multi-day passage had a very unfortunate outcome...we lost out bowsprit. The genneker halyard ruptured and dropped the sail into the water while we were moving ~12 knots. While we were trying to get the sail back on deck, the forces were just too great and the
Maintenance
The heat exchangers on our Yanmar engines are a problem. Replacing them is an expensive proposition, but we're not sure if they can be salvaged. In this episode you'll see how challenging it is simply to take them apart, and then we have to consider if
There's nothing quite as nice as all new plumbing. In this episode, we replace our toilets as well as the entire waste water system. The only thing remaining is the black water tank, and only because we can't get it out of the boat without cutting
Maintenance
Engines
We hauled out of the water in June 2024 and it’s now April 2025. So how’s it going? In this episode, we provide a real-time update. We’ll detail some of the steps we’ve finished, explain the projects that are mid-flight, and give you a peak into
Engines
The entire purpose behind doing our own major engine maintenance is to save money, and give old parts new life where possible. We hate the idea of throwing away things that can be saved with a bit of know-how and elbow grease. In this episode we attempt to clean up
Lithium Batteries
Before we can install our new 55 watt hour LiFePo battery bank, the space needs some serious work. From ensuring a dry space, to sanding, fiberglass, and paint, this space has been transformed into a perfect home for our LiFePo batteries.
Refit
Welcome to part two of our Major Engine Maintenance Series. It’s time to tear apart our engines! In this episode Shawn removes every hose, hose clamp, and every component. In the process, he discovers completely clogged hoses, significant corrosion, and rusted parts that must be replaced.
Projects
We have two Yanmar 4JH4-TE 75hp engines. With regular maintenance, these engines should comfortably last 10,000hrs and ours have 5,000. Engine maintenance is difficult on a boat. Space is tight, temperatures are often unbearable, and unless you have confidence and experience working on engines, it’s not uncommon
Refit
We weren't planning to be here this long. The seasons are changing quickly and with it comes cold temperatures and short days. Everything we own is in two storage containers that are little more than metal boxes. These will certainly have plenty of condensation during the cold months
Projects
Since day one back in July of 2022, we have had several hatches that leaked. While in Guatemala, we re-bedded two of the three hatches in the salon and galley, but that's as far as we got. We mitigated the problem by keeping a bucket or bowl under