Issue 125: March/April 2019
Bio protection for propellers
Before our June launch this year, after cleaning the prop thoroughly I coated it with PYI’s Velox Plus propeller antifouling paint. Everything I needed to apply the paint — primer, paint, and brushes — was included in a kit, and I followed the drying times and steps diligently.
When we hauled five months later, marine growth was particularly bad on the hull, yet the prop looked great. I have never before used antifouling on the prop and I’m used to prop performance waning as the months pass, due to growth. This season, the Velox wore away in only a few specks and spots around the hub and the prop performed consistently well. I expect that, had I not hauled, the prop would not have needed cleaning for the rest of the year. I can’t say the same for the hull. For more information: antifoulingpaint.net. —Tom Young, Good Old Boat contributor
Smells banished biologically
Holding-tank odors result from bacteria trying to decompose waste without enough oxygen to do the job. The metabolic byproducts stink to high heaven and permeate many materials. Installing an oversized vent line (1-inch diameter or larger) can reduce odors, but does not solve the problem.
This is where Raritan K.O. comes in, as it is effective even without enhanced ventilation. The product contains a live bacterial culture, enzymes, nutrients, and surfactants, which combine to break down waste and establish a low-odor aerobic culture. Pre-treating the tank creates an immediate effect. If K.O. is added to an established tank, a few hours of vigorous sailing and a half day to rest will do the trick. K.O. will extend the life of sanitation hose by reducing permeation. Because it is based on live culture, it continues to work for long periods of time and it has some reseeding effectiveness, even if you forget to treat the tank after pump-out. For more information: raritaneng.com. —Drew Frye, Good Old Boat contributing editor
Multi-use low-amps light
We’re liveaboards and, for the past several months, we’ve used the Davis Mega-Light Utility as an auxiliary anchor light and cockpit light. It has a 15-foot cord that plugs into a 12-volt receptacle and a light sensor that turns it on at dusk and off in daylight.
When on, the light uses less than .1 amp and is surprisingly bright — perfect for illuminating the cockpit for social gatherings. It’s a welcome deck-level light for when we return to the boat after dark, and it enhances security when we’re at anchor by deterring intruders and providing additional visibility to nighttime traffic. The plastic housing has proven durable and the light shows no sign of stopping. For more information: davisinstruments.com. —Phil Nance, Good Old Boat contributor
Thank you to Sailrite Enterprises, Inc., for providing free access to back issues of Good Old Boat through intellectual property rights. Sailrite.com
