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The article explores the use of penetrating epoxy for sealing and strengthening wood. It highlights that while penetrating epoxy is effective at soaking into cracks and rotten wood, it is weaker and has less tensile strength compared to conventional epoxy. The article also notes that penetrating epoxy cannot penetrate damp wood or kill rot. The author conducted tests on various penetrating epoxies and found limited penetration and strength, especially when diluted with acetone. However, the article suggests that penetrating epoxy can be used as a primer for toughening objects like oars. It recommends specific penetrating epoxy products for wood repair and sealing, and advises against using it for laminating or bonding. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Practical Sailor provides a comprehensive review of various electric bikes and conversion kits. It discusses the different classes of e-bikes, their speed limits, power, range, and weight. The article also compares hub drive and mid-drive systems. It concludes with recommendations and considerations for choosing an electric bike or conversion kit, emphasizing factors such as weight, ease of use, and storage limitations. This resource is valuable for library patrons researching electric bikes and seeking guidance on selecting the right model for their needs, whether for boating, cruising, or other purposes. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the use of turning sheaves in sailing to redirect lines to different winches. Cross sheeting and cross hauling techniques are commonly used to direct lines across the cockpit to winches on the opposite side of the boat. Turning sheaves, which are open blocks mounted to the deck, are often used to redirect lines to available winches. The article also provides information on the advantages and limitations of using winches as turning sheaves, as well as DIY solutions using low friction rings and webbing slings. The author emphasizes the importance of having flexibility in running rigging and having enough winches in convenient locations. INSET: Rope Clutches and Jammers. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides instructions and recommendations for repairing seams on waterproof fabrics. It suggests using glue or tape to seal seams, with specific products like Weldwood and Seam Grip WP mentioned. The article also discusses the option of sealing seams from the outside and recommends using Seam Grip for inaccessible seams. Additionally, it mentions the use of iron-on seam sealing tape, specifically West Bridgeford Seam Tape T-2000X, which is praised as the best option for seam repairs. The article concludes by mentioning other repair options, such as aftermarket coatings and patches, and emphasizes the importance of repairing seams to extend the life of garments and reduce waste. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the limitations and vulnerabilities of Dyneema, a commonly used material in sailing. It discusses the issues of over-tensioned topping lifts and the lack of stretch in Dyneema, which can lead to extreme tension and potential failures. The article also emphasizes the importance of addressing chafe and UV damage, as Dyneema is more susceptible to these issues compared to other materials. It concludes by suggesting careful monitoring, more frequent inspections, and replacing essential rigging and lifelines every 10-15 years. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides information on the construction, materials, and maintenance of trampolines on multihull boats. It explains that trampolines are important for performance and seaworthiness, allowing wind and water to pass through and reducing weight at the bow. The article offers tips on lacing design, installation, and maintenance, emphasizing the need to choose the right materials and regularly replace the lacing. It also discusses World Sailing Rules regarding trampoline mesh size and lacing requirements, and suggests adding accessories for improved functionality and safety. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and proper care for the longevity of the trampoline. INSET: Coatings for a Multihull Trampoline. [Extracted from the article]

This document provides instructions and tips for securing seat cushions in a sailboat's cockpit. Loose cushions can be dangerous and uncomfortable, so it is recommended to secure them. Closed cell foam cushions are the best choice for offshore sailing, as they do not absorb water and provide flotation. Various fastener options, such as reinforced plastic snaps and buckles, are available to secure the cushions. The document also discusses alternative methods for securing fasteners to the deck, such as using glue-on hardware or creating a glue-on Dyneema eye. It advises against using snaps due to potential fabric damage and suggests using self-adhesive snaps or lubricating metal snaps. The document concludes with recommendations for alternative fastening methods, such as using loops of line or webbing. INSET: Ripped-Out Snap Repair. [Extracted from the article]

The article "Can We Trust Plastic Boat Parts?" is a practical guide for selecting, using, and repairing plastic products for marine use. It emphasizes the need to understand the characteristics and potential failures of different plastics, as well as how to properly fix them. The article highlights the advantages of plastic boat parts, such as their affordability, resistance to corrosion and rot, and versatility for engineers and designers. However, it also acknowledges the real failures that can occur with plastic parts, particularly due to misuse and exposure to UV rays. The article provides specific information about the strengths and weaknesses of common plastics found on sailboats, including HDPE, LDPE, polypropylene, PVC, nylon, acetal plastic, and epoxies. It concludes with recommendations for using and avoiding certain plastics based on their specific properties and potential risks. The article aims to inform readers about the vulnerabilities and potential failures of different types of plastics commonly used in boats, while also providing guidance on how to mitigate these risks. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the use of alcohol stoves on boats and addresses some common misconceptions about them. The Origo stove, a popular type of alcohol stove, is described as simple and unpressurized. The main complaint about these stoves is their low heat output compared to propane stoves. The article provides tips for improving the performance of alcohol stoves, such as using a pot skirt and properly maintaining the fuel reservoir. It also compares the cost of different fuels and suggests alternative options for storing and pouring alcohol fuel. Overall, the article provides practical advice for boat owners using alcohol stoves and emphasizes the importance of safety precautions. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the different types of fuel that can be used in alcohol stoves, specifically focusing on the tradeoffs between fireplace fuels and hardware store denatured alcohols. Fireplace fuels, which have a higher ethanol content, produce a more luminous flame and more heat, but also leave soot on pots. Hardware store denatured alcohols, on the other hand, have a lower ethanol content and produce less heat, but do not leave as much soot. The article provides recommendations for specific brands of fuel and includes a value guide comparing different options. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the benefits and considerations of sharing the cost of boat ownership through partnerships. It suggests that joint ownership can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of owning a boat while spreading out expenses. The article advises potential partners to choose someone with previous boat ownership experience and to formalize their agreement to avoid misunderstandings. It also provides tips on selecting the right boat, scheduling usage, and managing expenses. The article concludes that successful partnerships require flexibility, compromise, and clear communication. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the decline in popularity of alcohol stoves in favor of propane stoves in the boating industry. Propane stoves are seen as more convenient and efficient for larger boats, while smaller boats often use portable propane or butane stoves due to their affordability and ease of use. However, there is a global push for cleaner cooking fuels, which has led to the development of a new Origo-type alcohol stove by Cleancook. This stove is designed to be easy to manufacture at a reduced cost and aims to bring clean cooking to less wealthy nations where wood fires are still commonly used. The article also mentions the availability of alcohol stoves through online retailers and addresses common misconceptions and concerns about alcohol stoves. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Practical Sailor explores the topic of recoating Dyneema ropes to provide extended protection against chafe and UV damage. The article discusses the characteristics of a suitable coating for Dyneema, such as being watery to soak deeply into the fibers and not stiffening the rope. The author tested three coatings, Yale Maxijacket, Flexabar Rope Dip, and Marlow ArmourCoat, and found that all three significantly reduced chafe. The author recommends Maxijacket as the top pick, although it has become increasingly hard to find. [Extracted from the article]