Recent content by Frank Langer

A hose removal tool, available widely at low cost, may save you time and trouble. A heat gun may also be helpful. Frank

Good problem solving, a step at a time. :) Frank

I have replaced the cables by pushing them down the pedestal, then pushing them down by the rudder post under the fuel tank and coming out by the transmission. It wasn't difficult and didn't require removing the pedestal. The throttle cable runs a bit differently but was also not hard. I did...

If you move it back further in the cockpit to free up the companionway entry, you risk lots of bruises on your shins as you try to step over the traveler. Been there, done that on a previous boat! :( Frank

On our boat the traveller is on the cabin top and I would not consider moving it. We have an opening in either side in the dodger windows where the traveller line comes through and is then long enough to handle easily at the helm when I single hand (which I do often). The mainsheet is also on...

It should be sufficient to use two good quality (not cheap hardware store ones) hose clamps at each end of the new hose, best to have them with the screws opposite each other, but still accessible to check periodically. Tighten enough to be snug and not leak, but don't over tighten as that can...

If you decide to apply a barrier coat, it might be helpful to put a tarp around the hull (taped in place to minimize air escaping) and add an industrial heater for a few days to further dry out the hull. You should be able to rent one at an equipment rental shop. Frank

That sounds like alot of chain! Do you really need that much for the boating you plan? We have the optional 19 gallon water tank under our v berth in our E30+. I can tell the difference in sailing performance when it's full, but I'm pretty fussy on sail performance. Most people likely wouldn't...

Juni, The water heater is only useful if you are staying at shorepower and want to do dishes, have a shower, wash hands in warm water. If those are not needed, you can remove the water heater, which will give you more space in the cockpit locker. I sold my fifteen year old still working water...

Loren, The government recently raised the maximum for liability claims to about $2,250,000, and then adding court costs and legal fees, the cost of a claim could approach $3 million. So you'll find many marinas raising their requirement to cover that. I renewed my coverage to that earlier this...

You will need to buy those parts for your particular engine. There were two engines initially used in the E30+, a 12 hp and a 16 HP, if I recall correctly. Frank

Hi, It's exciting to start the sailing season with a new boat, especially one as nice as an E30+. If you don't know much about keel boats, diesel engines, etc. I suggest you buy Nigel Calder's book titled Boatowners Mechanical and Electrical Manual. In my opinion it's among the best at...

Gaviate, Thanks for sharing this article which is a good reminder to us all.. Just as I am occasionally critical of a boat owner's poor seamanship, I would also be critical of a "good Samaritan" demonstrating poor seamanship by making a bad situation worse (though I'd be inclined to cut him some...

I have seen boats with lines loose or completely undone, have seen a boat bouncing on waves in a storm with the bow anchor mere inches from hitting the dock shore power connection, have seen a finger come loose from the main dock with boat attached, have seen headsails unfurled and flapping...

Ours on our Harken II is 5/16" and works perfectly.