Rhumb Lines: The Diesel Engine Dilemma
As the threat of global warming is forcing policy makers around the world to explore ways to wean their economies off carbon based energy...
Marine Fuel Filter Test
Diesel engines have evolved into incredibly reliable power sources. Change the oil, mind the charging system and batteries, and most importantly, always give them...
Can Diesel Damage Fuel Lines?
The answer is yes, given the right conditions (including an undisirable mix of metals in the system), and enough time, untreated diesel fuel can...
Prop and Shaft Check
A vessels drive train is typically defined as the components between the engine transmission coupling and the bitter end of the propeller shaft. For...
Anti-Seize Coatings for Spars
If you've ever been humbled by a single impossibly stuck fastener, or plan on adding hardware to your spar, running gear, or deck, this...
Folding vs. Feathering Props
For the past 40 years we've sailed an average of 10,000 miles annually between Australia, Alaska, Antarctica and Spitsbergen motoring or motorsailing between 400...
Jerry Can Storage Tips
Jerry cans are a fact of life when cruising on small to mid-size cruisers. When fitting out our 37-foot cruiser for an extended trip...
Dealing with Bad Diesel
About this time of year, many of our readers will experience a gradual loss of engine power, maybe even a complete shut down. Theyll...
Playing it Safe with LPG Heat
Unlike many sailors, Practical Sailor contributor Drew Fryes version of sailing occurs in any weather where the water isn't frozen. So when his family...
Additives vs. Gum, Sludge
If we used our boats like the family car, back and forth to work each day, fuel would never sit for more than a...
The 51 Foot Wharram Catamaran He Finally Found!
If you’ve ever wanted to build your own sailboat, you’ve undoubtedly come across Wharram Catamarans. These home-built DIY sailboat plans are a big hit...
Latest Sailboat Review
Vancouver 27 Used Boat Review
I was single handed on our Islander Bahama 30 on a spectacular fall afternoon, white caps dancing on the blue waters of Plumper Sound...