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...
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...
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...
August 2016 Newsletter
Photo Essay: Generator Enclosure Chafe Protection
Text and photos by Steve D'Antonio Copyright © 2016 When I carry out a vessel inspection, wiring security and the potential for chafe is...
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...
April 2019 Newsletter
Text and photos © 2019 Steve D’Antonio Marine Consulting, Inc. Photo Essay: Anchor Rode Cut-Away Lines
Other than for inspections or testing, it’s a part of...
November 2022 Newsletter “Wiring Lithium-Ion Battery Systems”
Photo Essay: Wiring Lithium-Ion Battery Systems
Fires aboard vessels equipped with lithium-ion batteries quickly capture the attention of the boat building and cruising communities, and...
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...
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 2020 Newsletter
Text and photos © 2020 Steve D'Antonio Marine Consulting, Inc. Photo Essay: Tools are Your Good Friends “Tools are your good friends”, those are the opening...








