Trident Two-stage Propane Regulator, Problems

by John May 18, 2005

The Problem After two days going to windward on the same tack, returning from Svalbard (Spitsbergen) to Norway, our bilge gas alarm went off. We searched everywhere for the source to no avail until I opened the gas bottle locker to a very strong smell of propane.

Cummins Diesel Engine, Model 6B5, Problems

by John May 18, 2006

The Problem When doing a scrupulous 50 hour check of our then brand new engine, I (John) found a bolt in the bilge. After much twisting of myself into awkward positions with a trouble light and a mirror, I finally found where it had come from: the oil pan. Things only got worse.

Broadwater Stove (Cooker), Problems

by John May 18, 2008

The Problem This is a beautifully fabricated four burner stainless steel stove (cooker) that, when we bought it in 1996, was billed as the best money could buy; supposedly even better than the New Zealand-fabricated Princess stove, which really was the best stove money could buy (unfortunately, our Princess stove was on our old boat, [...]

Force10 Stove (Cooker), Problems

by John May 18, 2009
The inadequate mounting bracket Force10 provides for their marine stoves (cookers).

After much agonizing, we finally made the decision to replace our Broadwater stove (cooker) that has given us so much trouble since we bought it seven years ago; mainly because the manufacturer seems to be, after several fits and starts, well and truly defunct (more on the Broadwater).

Force10 Stove (Cooker), Problems, Take Two

by John November 8, 2009
A professional gas technician tests the Force10 stove (cooker) for gas leaks on aluminum expedition sailboat Morgan's Cloud.

During our recent refit we replaced Morgan’s Cloud ’s old, and much hated stove (cooker) with a three burner model from Force10. Getting the new stove working properly and safely has not been easy.

Cummins Diesel Engine, Problems, Take Two

by John April 6, 2010
Cummins marine engine with head removed.

We are in the throes of re-powering Morgan’s Cloud, and as far as we are concerned, this unpleasant and expensive task has come about 4000 engine hours too early.

A Tale Of Two Water Heaters

by John April 29, 2010
Two marine hot water heaters.

Last year our venerable and functional 9 gallon Allcraft water heater (on the right) finally bit the big one after 15 years of faithful service. And, wouldn’t you know it, Allcraft had gone out of business.