Projects Intro

Projects: [Refrigeration] [Computer Central] [AIS] [Deck Rebuild] [Watermaker] [Osmosis Repairs] [Engine Rebuild] [Replace Diesel Tank]

There's no real firm dividing line that discriminates between Projects and Hints. Generally speaking, I use "Hints" for those things we've done by ourselves with only a few day's effort and limited monetary outlay while "Projects" can soak up many nautical units (1 Nautical Unit (NU) = $1000), require many days to complete, and often require the use of professional assistance. Being larger in scope, "Projects" require more than a few paragraphs and a photo or diagram or two to explain, so I've developed separate web pages for each of the following Projects.

	Refrigeration: There're many ways to skin this cat - this is how we did it and made it extra reliable as well.
	Computer Central: Covers the installation of two separate computers, one powered via inverter and the other powered by 12V from the house battery bank(s).
	Automatic Information System (AIS): Ships are now required to transmit at close intervals information about their location, course, and speed via AIS. This discussion covers various considerations about installing an inexpensive AIS receiver and display software so as to be informed about ships in the area.
	Deck Rebuild: Daydreamer had a few deck leaks when we bought her that eventually caused the core material in the deck to deteriorate. This Project write-up covers the replacement of the bad core along with the rebunging and recaulking of her teak decks.
	Watermaker: Watermakers can be purchased as a unit or assembled from the various bits and pieces required. They aren't rocket science but rather mostly just a bit of plumbing with some mechanical considerations. We took the do-it-yourself approach and were able to work up a dual-drive pump setup that can operate using electricity from the generator or a belt drive from the engine. Here's how.
	Blister Fix: Daydreamer had developed a rash of pinhead-sized osmotic blisters at the waterline. We decided to spring for a complete whole-hull fix, just in case. Here's how it went.
	Diesel Tank Replacement: We lost one of our fuel tanks to external pinhole corrosion. This page discusses how we went about designing, fabricating, and installing its replacement. It's probably not that much of general interest but if you need to install or replace a fuel tank or are particularly interested in Daydreamer, it might just be worth a look.
	Engine Rebuild: Not an unique problem, but for what it's worth, a series of photos covering our engine rebuild in 2005.