May 2025 Newsletter – Lifeline Corrosion
Photo Essay: Lifeline Corrosion
While plastic coated wire lifelines are a ubiquitous aspect of small boat safety, they aren’t without their shortcomings. Long ago, while...
April 2023 Newsletter: Fuel Filter “Seaweed”
Photo Essay: Fuel Filter "Seaweed"
Primary fuel filters are the first line of defense against a range of contaminants including sediment, asphaltene, and water. Most...
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...
Ask Steve – September 2015
Hello Steve, I'm a long time reader, the first time was with PassageMaker about 14 years ago. I have a question, can I put...
January 2024 Newsletter – The Perils of Double Grounding
Photo Essay: The Perils of Double Grounding
It is ubiquitous, various disparate onboard equipment, to which green bonding wires are attached. While not necessarily providing...
October 2016 Newsletter
Text and photos by Steve D’Antonio Copyright © 2016
Photo Essay: (Too Many) Bilge Pump Installation Flaws On their own, common submersible electric bilge pumps have proven, for the...
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...
Ask Steve – December 2015
Hi Steve I have a pair of Cat 3208, 1984, 300hp engines in my Jersey 40. They are well cared for and I pulled...
July 2021 Newsletter “Vented Loop Remote Drains”
Text and photos © 2021 Steve D'Antonio Marine Consulting, Inc.
Photo Essay: Vented Loop Remote Drains
Vented loops, sometimes called anti-siphon valves or siphon breaks, are...
May 2018 Newsletter
Photo Essay: Chafe
It’s the bane of every seagoing vessel, taking its toll on everything from dock lines and wiring to sails and hoses. Every...







