Ask Steve

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...