BEST OF 2014 – Refit Special – Not changing the boat? Then make it new! #3

Third installment of our special refit. Today, all the systems that are on board a sailboat, from the bilge pumps to the refrigerator, are more efficient and consume less than those installed only a decade ago. Again, whether or not to replace old systems depends on the intended use of the boat. If you have found that you never get enough power because you spend so much time in the roadstead, it is a good idea to make all your systems more efficient and to think about installing solar panels that will provide you with greater self-sufficiency. Just buy one or more marine PV panels, a charge controller, and you’re done. In this way, the on-board batteries will not be in danger of being discharged, and with the proper equipment, you will be able to use electricity in the middle of the sea. For the past couple of years, really thin and reliable solar panels have been available Commercially, pay attention to the differences in cost and the product being offered. If you have to choose a model, our expert recommends the Solbian, the same ones used by Giovanni Soldini aboard Maserati. In order not to ruin the battery, it is essential when using the panels to make use of a suitable charge controller.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: THE MOST DELICATE POINT IS THE WIRING
Regarding more specifically the electrical system, it is good to check frequently, at least every four years, the condition of cables and connectors that are always at risk of oxidation. As general maintenance, it is essential to clean and remove saltiness and apply preservative products such as Vaseline spray. A useful intervention is the periodic replacement of wiring harnesses, i.e., cable connections and splices. One should absolutely avoid using, as is the case in many boats, standard household or automotive flexible cables, and rather use properly tinned marine cables. If the cable is not tinned, copper will oxidize rapidly in a marine environment, increasing energy loss due to resistance and increasing the risk of failure. Although many older boats are not equipped with corrifilar pipes, it is worthwhile, when having to change the electrical system, to install some to facilitate future modifications and repairs. If there are no corrifilar tubes in your boat, you will probably need to disassemble the canopy panels to access the cables. If a large part of the electrical system needs to be renovated, it is usually better to work on the whole system. In particular, it is useful to replace the cables running from the battery to the positive and negative distribution bases with larger diameter cables. It would also be good to renovate the electrical panel, to make room for other instrument circuit breakers that may be put in the future. The same goes for distribution bases, if they are not enough for connections.
ENGINE: THE ADVANTAGES OF SAIL DRIVE
Marine engines must operate in a hostile environment, and usually saltwater corrosion ruins them to the point that it is no longer economically viable to repair them. If it is necessary to go to replace the motor, due to lack of spare parts, severe corrosion, or irreparable failure, the advice is to switch from the shaft line to a sail drive motor, that is, one with a drive foot and propeller integrated with the motor. The installation is obviously not low-cost, because it is necessary to work on the hull by making new laminations, however, significant component savings will be achieved as well as improved performance and efficiency. A second-hand engine is often a risk unless you know its provenance. A new engine definitely pays off in terms of reliability, operating costs, and noise pollution. The engine change is then an opportunity to access the engine compartment and renew all systems. Fuel boxes are often removed to clean them with a pressure washer after previously degreasing the sludge with dedicated products or gasoline. Access to the engine compartment is therefore a good opportunity to improve all the systems connected to the new engine and a good investment of future reliability. A new anti-siphon valve will prevent water from flowing back into the engine and seizing it. The location of previously inaccessible or undersized drain pipes, plumbing, filters, and other facilities should also be checked.