Tiller Extensions: Forespars Cobra and Spinlocks E-series
Wheel steering or tiller? If theres an option, which should you choose? Which is better? Wheel steering once was for large yachts and big...
Mailport 05/01/00
Battery BurnupIn your January 1, 2000 issue, Mr. Dale Botwin reported his experience with an inexpensive Group 24 starting battery getting very hot and...
Comings and Goings
Weve been aware for some years that the Loran navigation system is presumably on the way out, this despite the fact that the global...
PS Advisor 07/15/99
Holding Tanks and HosesMy brother-in-law and I are planning to install a holding tank in our 1970 Morgan 28. Ive tried to research the...
Handbearing Compasses: Plastimo Iris
One of the most time-consuming chores at Practical Sailor is finding, selecting and assembling the products to be tested. Even before we figure out...
Spare Parts
Barient WinchesWe recently heard from a reader that he was able to purchase replacement roller bearings for Barient 28+ winches, for $55, from the...
The Expensive Rolls Still a Best Buy in Deep Cycle Batteries
Traditional lead-acid (flooded) batteries have been with us for decades. The basic technology has been improved and refined, but still remains the same chemical...
Cabin Fan Test: Hella, Caframo Blow Best Breeze for the Buck
There are lots of things that can make being aboard a boat unpleasant. Among them: Too little wind, seasickness, crowded waterways, rain, guests with...
Deck Vents: Nicros Water Trap and Plastimos Cool n Dry are Clever and Effective
Cowls are descendants of simple vent pipes on sailing ships, cousins to the famed Charley Noble over the galley. When ships acquired engines below,...
Fabric Hatch Vents: The Breeze Booster Outdraws Windscoop
Theyre not for use underway, but hood-shaped fabric air scoops can be a godsend when theres but a slight breeze stirring the heat. Theres...