Ask Steve

Copyright © 2014 SDMC Inc.   Steve, I have read your articles in Cruising World for years and have found them very informative. Recently I notice that the...

Steve: I have a question about adjusting the valves on my engine.  If the engine is running smoothly and there is no smoke or slick...

Photo Essay: The Perils of an Unvented Loop Vented loops, also known as anti-siphon valves or siphon-breaks, have served mariners for many years.  Their mission...

From the Masthead Let me begin by apologizing to Marine Systems Excellence readers for our hiatus.  As most boat owners, and virtually anyone who is...

Text and photos © 2021 Steve D'Antonio Marine Consulting, Inc. Photo Essay: Fixed Fire Extinguisher Detail Fixed fire extinguishers perform, or are ready to perform, an...

Text and photos © 2020 Steve D'Antonio Marine Consulting, Inc. Photo Essay: Battery Box Installation Battery installations aren’t sexy; once installed years can go by without...

Photo Essay: Stainless Washer in Current Path This is a phenomenon I encounter often, and while it’s anecdotal, occurrences seem to be on the rise. ...

Text and photos by Steve D’Antonio Copyright © 2016 Photo Essay: Boiling Water with Batteries A few years ago the thought of boiling water using battery power would have...

Ask Steve: PVC Plumbing, Low Hour Engine Maintenance, Solar Panel Fire By Steve D'Antonio Photos by Steve D'Antonio and except where noted Steve D'Antonio This PVC "pool" valve...

Photo Essay: Through Deck Fittings Properly securing deck hardware can present a variety of challenges.  Cored composite decks represent perhaps the greatest challenge; the core...