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...
When to Adjust Valves
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...
July 2025 Newsletter – Risers and Siphon-Breaks
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...
June 2021 Newsletter “AC Ground Wire Sizing”
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...
January 2021 Newsletter “Fixed Fire Extinguisher Detail”
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...
July 2020 Newsletter
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...
February 2024 Newsletter – Stainless Washer in Current Path
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. ...
January 2017 Newsletter
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
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...
November 2023 Newsletter – Through Deck Fasteners
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...






