June 2017 Newsletter
Text and photos by Steve D’Antonio Copyright © 2017
Photo Essay: Battery Lugs
Reliably connecting batteries to their associated cables sounds easy. In practice, however, it can be fraught...
July 2022 Newsletter “Closed Cooling System Hose Failure”
Photo Essay: Closed Cooling System Hose Failure
While both must be reliable and robust, hoses used for conveying coolant (often incorrectly referred to as anti-freeze)...
Fire Extinguisher Query
Dear Steve: I recently looked at a new boat at a boat show. I noticed something that caught my attention and I wondered if you...
June 2023 Newsletter: Fuel Tank (no) Support
Photo Essay: Fuel Tank (no) Support
Structural failures of fuel tanks are nearly always traceable to either installation or construction flaws, with the former being...
January 2019 Newsletter
Photo Essay: Seacock Installation
While it’s self-evident that seacocks play a vital role in a vessel’s watertight integrity, I continue to encounter improperly installed examples...
August 2018 Newsletter
Photo Essay: Core Closeout
It’s a subject that comes up time and time again when I’m working with boat builders and boat yards, core close...
Ask Steve – November 2015
Please note, our first two questions are in regard to a previous Photo Essay. Steve,
I agree with your advice for grounding electronic equipment, but no...
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...
November 2018 Newsletter
Photo Essay: Hull to Deck Joint
Few boat building interfaces are as important as the one that occurs between the hull and deck. The loads...
August 2017 Newsletter
Text and photos by Steve D'Antonio Copyright © 2017
My Love/Hate Relationship with Bilge Pump Control Panels
While it's often given short shrift, bilge pump design and installation is every...









