Refit
EP51 - Installing our new DIY bowsprit
After losing our bowsprit offshore in EP14, we install a custom-designed replacement—closing the loop on a hard-earned lesson.
Refit
Refit
EP50 - Making Roam water-tight again.
We permanently patch unused thru-hulls and seal the hull—one of the most critical steps toward safely floating again.
Projects
Ep49 - Destructive testing our new epoxy countertop
We tested whether our custom epoxy composite countertop could safely support under-counter induction cooking — using thermal imaging and destructive heat testing to find out.
Refit
Ep48 - We created a new bowsprit. What could go wrong?
After losing our bowsprit on our first offshore passage, we designed and fabricated a stronger replacement. In this episode, we prep and refine the new aluminum bowsprit before installation aboard Roam.
Maintenance
EP47 - Trying to save the heat exchangers from our aging Yanmar engines | Part 1
Can we save the aging heat exchangers on our Yanmar engines — or are we risking catastrophic failure? In Part 1, we fight corrosion and weigh repair vs replacement.
EP46 - Installation of new Jabsco Quiet Flush e2 toilets & waste water system
We replace both marine toilets and rebuild our entire waste water system aboard Roam — new hoses, new routing, and stainless wire clamps throughout. A less glamorous but critical refit milestone.
Maintenance
EP45 - Replacing Our Thru-Hulls and Seacocks Using Custom 3D-Printed Tools
Replacing every thru-hull and seacock on Roam — and designing custom 3D-printed tools to do it right. Water-tight starts below the waterline.
Engines
Ep44 - Real time update! How much longer will this take?
Ten months into the refit, we've crossed a turning point. The prep is done, the leaks are sealed, and systems start going back in.
Engines
Ep43 - New starters cost $1600. Necessary expense? Yanmar engine maintenance Part 3.
New Yanmar starters can run $800 each. Before spending that, we tore ours down to find out what we actually had. Here's what we found.
Lithium Batteries
EP42 - Prepping the battery compartment to receive 55wh battery bank
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
EP41 - Tearing apart our Yanmar 4JH4-TE engines. Major Maintenance Series, Part 2
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
EP40 - DIY major maintenance on two YANMAR 4JH4-TE 75hp's - Part 1
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