By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_Kaz]Chris Kaz
Ever wondered what a Zodiac boat is, and the difference between an inflatable boat and a zodiac boat?
Well the Zodiac style has been around for many years, and it has become famous with boating and especially inflatable boating. The modern day inflatable boat you see on the water comes from the original zodiac style. They have been modeled and shaped as they were years ago, and now many different brands produce this style of inflatable boat.
There are now many brands producing this style of quality boat, and to this day, the basic technology and theory that goes into this design has not changed. It really shows that the original design was almost to perfection.
Both a Zodiac boat and an inflatable boat consist of the same structure and components. Which are, an outer PVC tube of about 50cm in diameter, which runs all along the boats edge, and forms a "V" shape. This part of the structure provides the main float for the boat. Due to its importance, it is split up into 5 air chambers. Meaning, if one part of the PVC material gets a hole in it, then whole boat will not deflate and sink. Allowing you to repair the broken chamber, while still afloat.
You must think, how can a boat made from plastic filled with air be safe, and hold up the power of an outboard motor and waves. The reason is in the design, a cylinder shape is the strongest shape, therefore spreading the load evenly throughout the boat. With a solid and heavy duty transom to fix your outboard onto, you will not have a problem at all.
The hull and the floor is the most interesting, and can be made differently depending on your choice. Some are made from fiberglass, but you can also get more portable lightweight designs, using folding plywood panels, and an inflatable air keel. Such an innovative design can allow you to fold up a large boat into your boot, and still have enough power to hold an outboard motor of up to 30 horse power.
So as you can see, rel=nofollow [http://www.goldeneyeinflatableboats.com.au]Zodiac Boats are the original design of inflatable boats, and the name that has made inflatable boats what they are today. With modern day technology producing higher quality materials, and slight variations on designs, this style of boat has grown into a popular recreational water craft for all to use.
Have a look at new style and technology in [http://www.goldeneyeinflatableboats.com.au]Zodiac Boats
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-a-Zodiac-Boat?&id=6594145] What Is a Zodiac Boat?
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Yacht Gel Coat Repairs Made Easy
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_W._Dickens]Michael W. Dickens
Most vessels and yachts built these days are built of fiberglass. A fiberglass boat is made of resins and synthetic glass plastic matting merged together to strengthen it. The outside boat areas are constructed of layers of colored resins known as gel coat. Gel coat is the material used to give the high-quality texture on the visible surface of the reinforced material beneath.
What's Gel Coat?
The most common gel coats used with today's vessels are structured on polyester resin chemistry. Gel coats are resins which are put into casts in the liquid state. The constructed module, when satisfactorily cured and taken from the cast, makes the gel coated surface. Over time, these gel coated surfaces can be damaged and dinged from age. The sunlight can also generate small cracks, but repairs can be made.
Here is how I do this. Topside gel coat cracks can be polished out of a gel coat exterior with automotive polishing compound and good old elbow grease, but deep scrapes must be filled. Excluding shade matching, gel coat repairs are relatively easy and uncomplicated. If cracks are deep, I normally prepare them for repair by grinding the surface with a Dremel tool. This provides suitable bedding for the resin. I prefer to utilize the West System epoxy for making my repairs.
The success of the repairs relies upon not only the ability of the epoxy's strength, but also on how effectively the epoxy adheres to the facade being put on. Except when you are bonding to partially cured epoxy, the potency of the union depends on the epoxy's capability to "affix " to the topsides. The next three steps of surface preparation work are an important part of any epoxy gel coat repair.
For top-quality bonding, all surfaces have to be:
1. Clean - All surfaces to be fixed have got to be free of all contaminants like grease, oil, wax or silicone. Wipe all surfaces with a fresh cloth moistened with lacquer thinner or acetone. Wipe the surface before the solvent dries. Cleanse the entire surfaces before sanding or grinding with a Dremel tool to avoid rubbing the pollutant into the current fiberglass face.
2. Dry - All topsides must be as dry as possible for high quality bonding. If necessary, quicken the drying by heating the topsides with a blow dryer. As always, epoxy is not going to stick to moist surfaces.
3. Sanding - Sand flat all surfaces- carefully rubbing each surface. Get rid of any cracking, chalking, blistering, or previous paint coatings prior to sanding. Remove all airborne debris following sanding with a rag dampened with solvent.
Fairing refers to the filling and shaping of ground out areas so they merge with the adjacent areas and appear "fair" both to the eye and touch. Prime the area like you would for bonding. Sand away all bulges and bumps on the surface and remove all dust from the surface to be faired afterwards. Combine resin/hardener and fairing filler to a putty-like thickness in accordance with the manufacturer's directions.
Always add fillers in a two-step manner:
1. Blend the preferred quantity of resin and hardener thoroughly before adding fillers.
2. Mix in small amounts of the suitable filling until the desired thickness is reached; be cautious not to put in too much.
Be certain all of the filler is totally mixed before the mixture is applied. Spread the mix into a thin layer in the mixing container to extend its working life; thick blended resin will become hard rapidly. The epoxy blend can now be troweled on with a plastic squeegee, pressing it into all spaces. Flatten the mixture to the desired form, but leaving the epoxy a bit more elevated than the adjacent area. Remove any spare thickened epoxy prior to it beginning to age. In addition, if any holes are more than �" deep, apply the epoxy mixture in multiple applications. Let the final thickened epoxy treatment age completely. Drying will take anywhere from one hour or more.
Smooth the applied fairing matter to merge with the adjacent contour; larger grit sandpaper will remove more material as you sand. Conclude with smaller grit sandpaper when you are close to the last contour. To complete the task, I prefer to paint the repaired surface.
Paradise Yachts is a Yacht Brokerage offering used yachts to customers worldwide.
Visit our website to view our selection of [http://www.paradiseyachtsales.net]Used Trawlers and Motor Yachts for Sale.
National and international sales. We ship [http://www.paradiseyachtsales.net]Used Yachts and Boats worldwide. Located in Florida, USA. 904/556-9431
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Yacht-Gel-Coat-Repairs-Made-Easy&id=6606297] Yacht Gel Coat Repairs Made Easy
Most vessels and yachts built these days are built of fiberglass. A fiberglass boat is made of resins and synthetic glass plastic matting merged together to strengthen it. The outside boat areas are constructed of layers of colored resins known as gel coat. Gel coat is the material used to give the high-quality texture on the visible surface of the reinforced material beneath.
What's Gel Coat?
The most common gel coats used with today's vessels are structured on polyester resin chemistry. Gel coats are resins which are put into casts in the liquid state. The constructed module, when satisfactorily cured and taken from the cast, makes the gel coated surface. Over time, these gel coated surfaces can be damaged and dinged from age. The sunlight can also generate small cracks, but repairs can be made.
Here is how I do this. Topside gel coat cracks can be polished out of a gel coat exterior with automotive polishing compound and good old elbow grease, but deep scrapes must be filled. Excluding shade matching, gel coat repairs are relatively easy and uncomplicated. If cracks are deep, I normally prepare them for repair by grinding the surface with a Dremel tool. This provides suitable bedding for the resin. I prefer to utilize the West System epoxy for making my repairs.
The success of the repairs relies upon not only the ability of the epoxy's strength, but also on how effectively the epoxy adheres to the facade being put on. Except when you are bonding to partially cured epoxy, the potency of the union depends on the epoxy's capability to "affix " to the topsides. The next three steps of surface preparation work are an important part of any epoxy gel coat repair.
For top-quality bonding, all surfaces have to be:
1. Clean - All surfaces to be fixed have got to be free of all contaminants like grease, oil, wax or silicone. Wipe all surfaces with a fresh cloth moistened with lacquer thinner or acetone. Wipe the surface before the solvent dries. Cleanse the entire surfaces before sanding or grinding with a Dremel tool to avoid rubbing the pollutant into the current fiberglass face.
2. Dry - All topsides must be as dry as possible for high quality bonding. If necessary, quicken the drying by heating the topsides with a blow dryer. As always, epoxy is not going to stick to moist surfaces.
3. Sanding - Sand flat all surfaces- carefully rubbing each surface. Get rid of any cracking, chalking, blistering, or previous paint coatings prior to sanding. Remove all airborne debris following sanding with a rag dampened with solvent.
Fairing refers to the filling and shaping of ground out areas so they merge with the adjacent areas and appear "fair" both to the eye and touch. Prime the area like you would for bonding. Sand away all bulges and bumps on the surface and remove all dust from the surface to be faired afterwards. Combine resin/hardener and fairing filler to a putty-like thickness in accordance with the manufacturer's directions.
Always add fillers in a two-step manner:
1. Blend the preferred quantity of resin and hardener thoroughly before adding fillers.
2. Mix in small amounts of the suitable filling until the desired thickness is reached; be cautious not to put in too much.
Be certain all of the filler is totally mixed before the mixture is applied. Spread the mix into a thin layer in the mixing container to extend its working life; thick blended resin will become hard rapidly. The epoxy blend can now be troweled on with a plastic squeegee, pressing it into all spaces. Flatten the mixture to the desired form, but leaving the epoxy a bit more elevated than the adjacent area. Remove any spare thickened epoxy prior to it beginning to age. In addition, if any holes are more than �" deep, apply the epoxy mixture in multiple applications. Let the final thickened epoxy treatment age completely. Drying will take anywhere from one hour or more.
Smooth the applied fairing matter to merge with the adjacent contour; larger grit sandpaper will remove more material as you sand. Conclude with smaller grit sandpaper when you are close to the last contour. To complete the task, I prefer to paint the repaired surface.
Paradise Yachts is a Yacht Brokerage offering used yachts to customers worldwide.
Visit our website to view our selection of [http://www.paradiseyachtsales.net]Used Trawlers and Motor Yachts for Sale.
National and international sales. We ship [http://www.paradiseyachtsales.net]Used Yachts and Boats worldwide. Located in Florida, USA. 904/556-9431
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Yacht-Gel-Coat-Repairs-Made-Easy&id=6606297] Yacht Gel Coat Repairs Made Easy
Friday, January 27, 2012
Reducing the Cost of Boat Accessories and Saving Money
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Paul_Weste]Paul Weste
Boat accessories can become a huge expense. The general cost of items for marine use seems to be much higher and even harder to get. Arming yourself with some useful tools can help save you money in the end.
The first thing that comes to mind is price. Yes as simple as it sounds many think that the larger stores or even local marinas will only carry that particular item they are looking for. This can be a false assumption as with even auto parts boat accessories are available in aftermarket varieties which not to many anglers are aware of. The price of a non-OEM or alternate manufactured item can be significantly lower enabling a better experience. Always check and make sure that all your options for purchase include the aftermarket or even other brand names.
Now look close at the quality you are getting. Yes I know that sometimes things look the same however the material and workmanship are important. Many items made of steel are cast or machined depending on the manufacturer and process used. Items made of cast steel are generally not as strong as those machined so if you need good strength do not purchased a cast item. If purchasing plastic items make sure to note if the plastic is UV resistant or not as plastics tend to become brittle over time thus wearing out and breaking. Many items are made from plastic for corrosion resistance however; if you intend to mount it in direct sunlight consider the grade and UV resistance of the material.
Determine the time needed for the item or items you intend to purchase. It is well-known that purchasing from an online store has price benefits but also the time for delivery is increased. If you are in a hurry, you could pay full retail for an item which could be as high as twice the cost of purchasing online. There are many different shipping methods to decrease this time however, it cannot in most cases be received the same day. A quick search on the internet will show many suppliers of boat accessories which can be utilized and facilitate a smooth purchase. If purchasing locally, a few phone calls may help determine the best price. Remember, even if you are in a hurry always check for available stock no matter where you choose to make your purchase. Many online retailers will have a contact form or a phone number for your use. There is nothing worse than patiently waiting for something only to find out it is on back-order and you thought everything was going just fine.
Finally, now that you are armed with these things you can make a sound purchase. Although marine items are expensive you can in fact purchase [http://www.boatersontop.com/]Boat Accessories at a reasonable price.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Reducing-the-Cost-of-Boat-Accessories-and-Saving-Money&id=6607511] Reducing the Cost of Boat Accessories and Saving Money
Boat accessories can become a huge expense. The general cost of items for marine use seems to be much higher and even harder to get. Arming yourself with some useful tools can help save you money in the end.
The first thing that comes to mind is price. Yes as simple as it sounds many think that the larger stores or even local marinas will only carry that particular item they are looking for. This can be a false assumption as with even auto parts boat accessories are available in aftermarket varieties which not to many anglers are aware of. The price of a non-OEM or alternate manufactured item can be significantly lower enabling a better experience. Always check and make sure that all your options for purchase include the aftermarket or even other brand names.
Now look close at the quality you are getting. Yes I know that sometimes things look the same however the material and workmanship are important. Many items made of steel are cast or machined depending on the manufacturer and process used. Items made of cast steel are generally not as strong as those machined so if you need good strength do not purchased a cast item. If purchasing plastic items make sure to note if the plastic is UV resistant or not as plastics tend to become brittle over time thus wearing out and breaking. Many items are made from plastic for corrosion resistance however; if you intend to mount it in direct sunlight consider the grade and UV resistance of the material.
Determine the time needed for the item or items you intend to purchase. It is well-known that purchasing from an online store has price benefits but also the time for delivery is increased. If you are in a hurry, you could pay full retail for an item which could be as high as twice the cost of purchasing online. There are many different shipping methods to decrease this time however, it cannot in most cases be received the same day. A quick search on the internet will show many suppliers of boat accessories which can be utilized and facilitate a smooth purchase. If purchasing locally, a few phone calls may help determine the best price. Remember, even if you are in a hurry always check for available stock no matter where you choose to make your purchase. Many online retailers will have a contact form or a phone number for your use. There is nothing worse than patiently waiting for something only to find out it is on back-order and you thought everything was going just fine.
Finally, now that you are armed with these things you can make a sound purchase. Although marine items are expensive you can in fact purchase [http://www.boatersontop.com/]Boat Accessories at a reasonable price.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Reducing-the-Cost-of-Boat-Accessories-and-Saving-Money&id=6607511] Reducing the Cost of Boat Accessories and Saving Money
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Can I Build a Boat? The 4 Basic Building Steps
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Morten_O_Olesen]Morten O Olesen
Pushing off from the shore, you set sail across the water with an enormous sense of pride and anticipation. You've done it! You've built your own boat and are free to take on any water-bound adventure you can envision. That may be your dream, but for many building a boat seems like an impossible task. Take heart!
While it may require some patience and a few new power tools (nothing wrong with that!), there are really only 4 basic steps to building a boat.
Step 1: Choosing a Boat Design
What do you want to be the captain of? A simple canoe? A row boat? How about a skiff or dinghy? From catamarans to tugboats, you can choose whatever type of wooden boat plans you'd like.
Of course, the bigger the boat, the more complex the plans and the longer it will take to complete. For your first attempt, you might consider a canoe or row boat. But if you've been there and done that and have now set your sights on bigger fish (so to speak), you may be ready to tackle a speedboat or a pram. Once you decide, you'll only have 3 basic steps to complete before sailing off into the sunset.
Step 2: Lofting
According to Wikipedia.com, "Lofting is a drafting technique whereby curved lines are drawn on wood and the wood then cut for woodworking. The technique can be as simple as bending a flexible object (such as a long cane) so that it passes over three points and drawing the curved line.
"Lofting is particularly useful in boat building, when it is used to draw and cut pieces for hulls and keels, which are usually curved, often in three dimensions."
If you can draw a curved line on a piece of plywood, you have the basics of lofting wooden boat plans down already.
Step 3: Assembling
There's a method to the madness when it comes to organizing and assembling the pieces of wooden boat plans. Once you learn a few tricks of the trade, the process goes pretty quickly.
Assembling each section in the right order and using the correct materials and techniques makes all the difference in the world. When you get expert help in the form of plans and/or boat building courses; putting together your dream craft is as easy as following the instructions and pictures.
Step 4: Laminating
Boats made from wooden boat plans are created from individual pieces of wood. Those pieces have to be connected in order to have a finished vessel. If this were anything other than a boat, you might just use nails or screws to hold everything in place. But since our creation will be placed in the water, connecting the pieces has to be both functional and also leak proof.
Although it might sound strange, water can be a boat's worst nightmare. The seams of your vessel have to be watertight in order for your boat to stay afloat. This is where many a novice boat builder goes astray. There are 4 basic techniques for laminating correctly the first time. Each has its pros and cons. Taking time to learn all 4 and which would be best for the boat you dream of building will be well worth your while.
In essence, that's it. That's all it takes to build a boat. If you were wondering whether you could do it or not, the answer is yes provided you have the right plans and instructions. I recommend you start small and work your way up. Get a little experience under your belt then move up in size and complexity until you create the boat you've always wanted.
Morten Olesen is a master boat builder and Naval Architect. Visit http://www.boatplans.dk to get his exclusive line of boat plans which includes 3-D computer models plus his free Boat Builder Master Course with your order. � 2011, All Rights Reserved
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Can-I-Build-a-Boat?-The-4-Basic-Building-Steps&id=6599979] Can I Build a Boat? The 4 Basic Building Steps
Pushing off from the shore, you set sail across the water with an enormous sense of pride and anticipation. You've done it! You've built your own boat and are free to take on any water-bound adventure you can envision. That may be your dream, but for many building a boat seems like an impossible task. Take heart!
While it may require some patience and a few new power tools (nothing wrong with that!), there are really only 4 basic steps to building a boat.
Step 1: Choosing a Boat Design
What do you want to be the captain of? A simple canoe? A row boat? How about a skiff or dinghy? From catamarans to tugboats, you can choose whatever type of wooden boat plans you'd like.
Of course, the bigger the boat, the more complex the plans and the longer it will take to complete. For your first attempt, you might consider a canoe or row boat. But if you've been there and done that and have now set your sights on bigger fish (so to speak), you may be ready to tackle a speedboat or a pram. Once you decide, you'll only have 3 basic steps to complete before sailing off into the sunset.
Step 2: Lofting
According to Wikipedia.com, "Lofting is a drafting technique whereby curved lines are drawn on wood and the wood then cut for woodworking. The technique can be as simple as bending a flexible object (such as a long cane) so that it passes over three points and drawing the curved line.
"Lofting is particularly useful in boat building, when it is used to draw and cut pieces for hulls and keels, which are usually curved, often in three dimensions."
If you can draw a curved line on a piece of plywood, you have the basics of lofting wooden boat plans down already.
Step 3: Assembling
There's a method to the madness when it comes to organizing and assembling the pieces of wooden boat plans. Once you learn a few tricks of the trade, the process goes pretty quickly.
Assembling each section in the right order and using the correct materials and techniques makes all the difference in the world. When you get expert help in the form of plans and/or boat building courses; putting together your dream craft is as easy as following the instructions and pictures.
Step 4: Laminating
Boats made from wooden boat plans are created from individual pieces of wood. Those pieces have to be connected in order to have a finished vessel. If this were anything other than a boat, you might just use nails or screws to hold everything in place. But since our creation will be placed in the water, connecting the pieces has to be both functional and also leak proof.
Although it might sound strange, water can be a boat's worst nightmare. The seams of your vessel have to be watertight in order for your boat to stay afloat. This is where many a novice boat builder goes astray. There are 4 basic techniques for laminating correctly the first time. Each has its pros and cons. Taking time to learn all 4 and which would be best for the boat you dream of building will be well worth your while.
In essence, that's it. That's all it takes to build a boat. If you were wondering whether you could do it or not, the answer is yes provided you have the right plans and instructions. I recommend you start small and work your way up. Get a little experience under your belt then move up in size and complexity until you create the boat you've always wanted.
Morten Olesen is a master boat builder and Naval Architect. Visit http://www.boatplans.dk to get his exclusive line of boat plans which includes 3-D computer models plus his free Boat Builder Master Course with your order. � 2011, All Rights Reserved
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Can-I-Build-a-Boat?-The-4-Basic-Building-Steps&id=6599979] Can I Build a Boat? The 4 Basic Building Steps
Monday, January 23, 2012
Why Budget Limited Fishermen and Boat Enthusiasts Love Used Pontoon Boats
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Matt_L_Skinner]Matt L Skinner
It's not every day that you discover that you can have something that you previously thought was beyond your price range. When the hot summer rolls around, boat lovers and fishermen turn to a life of cruising (and fishing) out in the ocean. Boats are expensive toys and are outside the reach of many would-be boat owners, yet few people realize that most of the benefits that can be fond in a typical boat are also offered in pontoon boats and at a much cheaper price. What's more many used pontoon boats are in great condition and can be snapped up even cheaper!
Pontoon boats are flat bottomed boats that are distinct from normal boats in that they have a flat deck on-top of cylindrical pontoons for floatation. Pontoon boats are cheap to build due to their simple design, however these boat types tend to suffer from what is known as the "pontoon effect", whereby the have an inclination to topple when a large sideways force is applied. While certain pontoon manufacturers get around this problem by adding a third, heavier pontoon in the middle to lower the center of gravity, Pontoons are generally "fair weather vessels that should not be taken out in rough weather.
However for a lazy cruise on a bright sunny day, pontoon boats are the ideal way to enjoy the water, whether with your family and friends or on fishing trips, or just lazy cruises out on your own. There are a wide variety of pontoon boat types available, from leisure cruisers to fishing boats, to sports vessels. Pontoons are also a preferred vessel for permanent ferries and utility vessels, with a flat bottom pontoons are perfect in shallow water, as they are less prone to running aground than is the case with a normal boat.
If you are good with tools and own a shed, then fixing up a second hand vessel, can be a rewarding weekend project and because they are essentially a simple vessel, it is not inconceivable to build your new pontoon boat from scratch if you have the time, dedication and patience to do so.
If you are strapped for cash and can't afford a regular boat, then there is certainly a much more affordable market in pontoons. With hundreds of different pontoon boat types to choose from, you are guaranteed to find an equivalent pontoon, not mater what type of boat you are seeking. As you sit back on your padded seat, sipping lemonade and taking in the welcoming summer sun over the deep blue horizon, it's where thousands of boat lovers all over the country will surely be in the summer months.
For more information on finding [http://www.toptenoutdoor.com/used-pontoon-boats-for-sale-buying-tips-and-traps]used pontoon boats as well as FREE articles a wide range of topics relating to the outdoors, from off road buggies to [http://www.toptenoutdoor.com/outdoor-ceiling-fans-with-lights]outdoor ceiling lights, follow the links to visit our website for these topics and more.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Budget-Limited-Fishermen-and-Boat-Enthusiasts-Love-Used-Pontoon-Boats&id=6608899] Why Budget Limited Fishermen and Boat Enthusiasts Love Used Pontoon Boats
It's not every day that you discover that you can have something that you previously thought was beyond your price range. When the hot summer rolls around, boat lovers and fishermen turn to a life of cruising (and fishing) out in the ocean. Boats are expensive toys and are outside the reach of many would-be boat owners, yet few people realize that most of the benefits that can be fond in a typical boat are also offered in pontoon boats and at a much cheaper price. What's more many used pontoon boats are in great condition and can be snapped up even cheaper!
Pontoon boats are flat bottomed boats that are distinct from normal boats in that they have a flat deck on-top of cylindrical pontoons for floatation. Pontoon boats are cheap to build due to their simple design, however these boat types tend to suffer from what is known as the "pontoon effect", whereby the have an inclination to topple when a large sideways force is applied. While certain pontoon manufacturers get around this problem by adding a third, heavier pontoon in the middle to lower the center of gravity, Pontoons are generally "fair weather vessels that should not be taken out in rough weather.
However for a lazy cruise on a bright sunny day, pontoon boats are the ideal way to enjoy the water, whether with your family and friends or on fishing trips, or just lazy cruises out on your own. There are a wide variety of pontoon boat types available, from leisure cruisers to fishing boats, to sports vessels. Pontoons are also a preferred vessel for permanent ferries and utility vessels, with a flat bottom pontoons are perfect in shallow water, as they are less prone to running aground than is the case with a normal boat.
If you are good with tools and own a shed, then fixing up a second hand vessel, can be a rewarding weekend project and because they are essentially a simple vessel, it is not inconceivable to build your new pontoon boat from scratch if you have the time, dedication and patience to do so.
If you are strapped for cash and can't afford a regular boat, then there is certainly a much more affordable market in pontoons. With hundreds of different pontoon boat types to choose from, you are guaranteed to find an equivalent pontoon, not mater what type of boat you are seeking. As you sit back on your padded seat, sipping lemonade and taking in the welcoming summer sun over the deep blue horizon, it's where thousands of boat lovers all over the country will surely be in the summer months.
For more information on finding [http://www.toptenoutdoor.com/used-pontoon-boats-for-sale-buying-tips-and-traps]used pontoon boats as well as FREE articles a wide range of topics relating to the outdoors, from off road buggies to [http://www.toptenoutdoor.com/outdoor-ceiling-fans-with-lights]outdoor ceiling lights, follow the links to visit our website for these topics and more.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Budget-Limited-Fishermen-and-Boat-Enthusiasts-Love-Used-Pontoon-Boats&id=6608899] Why Budget Limited Fishermen and Boat Enthusiasts Love Used Pontoon Boats
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Crucial Boat Maintenance Tips
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Louise_Goldstein]Louise Goldstein
Boats, more than any other form of transportation, suffer hugely from wear and tear. This is because of their exposure to extreme weather even when they are moored at a pier. Care and maintenance are important in prolonging your boat's service life.
Here are some basic-but-important tips to help you keep your boat in good working condition:
Keep a comprehensive checklist
Inspection should be done on a weekly, monthly, and annual basis. Some components, such as cables, antennae, and electronic navigation equipment, only need to be checked annually for corrosion; but engines, batteries, and gear boxes should be inspected every time before you head off to open waters.
With so many things you need to check and several checkup schedules to keep track of, it's easy to forget something - and you never know whether that something you forget could be the one that causes trouble for you in the middle of the sea.
To make sure you don't overlook anything, you need to have a comprehensive checklist. You can easily get one from the Internet. Or if you have found a trustworthy mechanic, he could provide you with a list to make your maintenance routine more effective.
Moor and winterize properly
Few boat owners know that scratches are often caused by improper boat mooring. These scratches, while small, can easily lead to more serious damage.
To avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your boat's hull, make sure the mooring line is securely attached to the bollard. Also, knowing the conditions of the pier (susceptible to extreme tidal flows, exposed to strong currents) before docking could help you prevent scratches on your boat.
Once scratches have appeared, a paint job is in order. This would prevent rust from eating away at the hull.
Winterization refers to the preparation of your boat for very cold conditions. You might need to take your boat out of the water and store it in a climate-controlled environment.
Another method is to sail your yacht to warmer harbours, where seawater never freezes.
Maintain your bilge pump and boat engine
Boats sink primarily because the hull has been overwhelmed with water. To ensure that water is efficiently taken out of the hull, you need to make sure that your bilge pump is functioning properly at all times. Do proper maintenance checks and tune ups on it, especially when you take your boat on distant journeys.
As for the boat engine, its fuel tanks, lines and clamps should be inspected for corrosion. Salt water easily damages metals, so routine checks must be undertaken. The engine's cooling system should not only work properly, it should also supply the correct data to the ship captain.
These steps can help prevent many - but not all - unforeseen disasters. For those things that you simply cannot foresee or prevent, it helps to have rel=nofollow [http://www.velosinsurance.co.nz/]boat insurance. This will give you peace of mind in times of safety, and it will be the helping hand you need most sorely when unforeseen disasters strike. [http://www.velosinsurance.co.nz/]Marine Insurance by VelosInsurance.co.nz
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Crucial-Boat-Maintenance-Tips&id=6615664] Crucial Boat Maintenance Tips
Boats, more than any other form of transportation, suffer hugely from wear and tear. This is because of their exposure to extreme weather even when they are moored at a pier. Care and maintenance are important in prolonging your boat's service life.
Here are some basic-but-important tips to help you keep your boat in good working condition:
Keep a comprehensive checklist
Inspection should be done on a weekly, monthly, and annual basis. Some components, such as cables, antennae, and electronic navigation equipment, only need to be checked annually for corrosion; but engines, batteries, and gear boxes should be inspected every time before you head off to open waters.
With so many things you need to check and several checkup schedules to keep track of, it's easy to forget something - and you never know whether that something you forget could be the one that causes trouble for you in the middle of the sea.
To make sure you don't overlook anything, you need to have a comprehensive checklist. You can easily get one from the Internet. Or if you have found a trustworthy mechanic, he could provide you with a list to make your maintenance routine more effective.
Moor and winterize properly
Few boat owners know that scratches are often caused by improper boat mooring. These scratches, while small, can easily lead to more serious damage.
To avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your boat's hull, make sure the mooring line is securely attached to the bollard. Also, knowing the conditions of the pier (susceptible to extreme tidal flows, exposed to strong currents) before docking could help you prevent scratches on your boat.
Once scratches have appeared, a paint job is in order. This would prevent rust from eating away at the hull.
Winterization refers to the preparation of your boat for very cold conditions. You might need to take your boat out of the water and store it in a climate-controlled environment.
Another method is to sail your yacht to warmer harbours, where seawater never freezes.
Maintain your bilge pump and boat engine
Boats sink primarily because the hull has been overwhelmed with water. To ensure that water is efficiently taken out of the hull, you need to make sure that your bilge pump is functioning properly at all times. Do proper maintenance checks and tune ups on it, especially when you take your boat on distant journeys.
As for the boat engine, its fuel tanks, lines and clamps should be inspected for corrosion. Salt water easily damages metals, so routine checks must be undertaken. The engine's cooling system should not only work properly, it should also supply the correct data to the ship captain.
These steps can help prevent many - but not all - unforeseen disasters. For those things that you simply cannot foresee or prevent, it helps to have rel=nofollow [http://www.velosinsurance.co.nz/]boat insurance. This will give you peace of mind in times of safety, and it will be the helping hand you need most sorely when unforeseen disasters strike. [http://www.velosinsurance.co.nz/]Marine Insurance by VelosInsurance.co.nz
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Crucial-Boat-Maintenance-Tips&id=6615664] Crucial Boat Maintenance Tips
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Marine Panels: Designing Custom Instrument Panels for Boats
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mike_Barone]Mike Barone
Building custom boats requires careful planning and execution. Without the right materials and design approach, the design process can be delayed by rework and, in some cases, become too expensive. To minimize design cost, custom boat builders look for opportunities to outsource specialty design projects to companies that handle niche aspects of marine design for boats, such as the design of instrument panels for helms, utility areas, and cabins-to name a few.
Areas for Instrument Paneling
The type of paneling a boat requires depends on its interior and exterior design. All motorboats require paneling that covers wires and apparatuses in the helm console. Other areas where paneling is needed include:
Industrial Equipment Controls
Industrial and commercial boats often feature a variety of equipment controls. Examples of equipment that could require a custom boat panel include: deck winches, davits, cranes, and anchor windlass systems.
Circuit Breaker Panels
Most commercial and industrial boats have breaker panels. Unlike standard breaker panels, these panels might require marine design that minimizes the level of moisture they encounter.
Alarm Controls
Alarm controls for boats range from small keypads to large control panels that feature several data channels. In either case, custom designed paneling can be used to accommodate ergonomic control design.
Cabins and Common Areas
Cabins and common areas on private boats contain aesthetic paneling that is usually easy to design, but is often made with materials that require special workmanship, such as fine wood or stone.
Designing Custom Instrument Panels
Custom marine panels are traditionally designed by hand. However, computer numerical control (CNC) technology is increasingly replacing manual machine and hand methods. Today, most instrument paneling is designed with a CNC router that can cut wood or metal. Unlike standard routers, CNC routers are computer controlled, offering incredible cutting accuracy and the ability to replicate multiple work pieces. In addition to producing a better product, the efficiency of the CNC process can also produce savings for the customer.
Some producers of instrument paneling allow the customer to participate in the design process. Using a free software download, the customer can design panels through a program that expresses design data in a solid CAD model. Because solid CAD models can be directly manufactured, the transition between the design and production of a piece is seamless. The design model can also be retained to produce replica pieces, or pieces that contain alterations.
Conclusion
Custom boat building involves numerous design considerations. When it comes to designing instrument panels, outsourcing to a panel producer that uses a CNC production process and allows customers to design their own pieces offers three advantages:
The accuracy of CNC technology creates a superior product
The efficiency of CNC technology reduces production cost
The customer plays a greater role in the design process
If you are designing a boat that requires custom paneling for equipment controls, circuit breaker panels, alarm controls, and/or cabins and common areas, consult with a panel producer that offers a CNC based, customer integrated production process.
In my research on custom [http://www.frontpanelexpress.com]marine panels, I studied the benefits of a CNC based, customer integrated design process for creating a [http://www.frontpanelexpress.com/service/design-service/index.html]custom boat panel.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Marine-Panels:-Designing-Custom-Instrument-Panels-for-Boats&id=6619666] Marine Panels: Designing Custom Instrument Panels for Boats
Building custom boats requires careful planning and execution. Without the right materials and design approach, the design process can be delayed by rework and, in some cases, become too expensive. To minimize design cost, custom boat builders look for opportunities to outsource specialty design projects to companies that handle niche aspects of marine design for boats, such as the design of instrument panels for helms, utility areas, and cabins-to name a few.
Areas for Instrument Paneling
The type of paneling a boat requires depends on its interior and exterior design. All motorboats require paneling that covers wires and apparatuses in the helm console. Other areas where paneling is needed include:
Industrial Equipment Controls
Industrial and commercial boats often feature a variety of equipment controls. Examples of equipment that could require a custom boat panel include: deck winches, davits, cranes, and anchor windlass systems.
Circuit Breaker Panels
Most commercial and industrial boats have breaker panels. Unlike standard breaker panels, these panels might require marine design that minimizes the level of moisture they encounter.
Alarm Controls
Alarm controls for boats range from small keypads to large control panels that feature several data channels. In either case, custom designed paneling can be used to accommodate ergonomic control design.
Cabins and Common Areas
Cabins and common areas on private boats contain aesthetic paneling that is usually easy to design, but is often made with materials that require special workmanship, such as fine wood or stone.
Designing Custom Instrument Panels
Custom marine panels are traditionally designed by hand. However, computer numerical control (CNC) technology is increasingly replacing manual machine and hand methods. Today, most instrument paneling is designed with a CNC router that can cut wood or metal. Unlike standard routers, CNC routers are computer controlled, offering incredible cutting accuracy and the ability to replicate multiple work pieces. In addition to producing a better product, the efficiency of the CNC process can also produce savings for the customer.
Some producers of instrument paneling allow the customer to participate in the design process. Using a free software download, the customer can design panels through a program that expresses design data in a solid CAD model. Because solid CAD models can be directly manufactured, the transition between the design and production of a piece is seamless. The design model can also be retained to produce replica pieces, or pieces that contain alterations.
Conclusion
Custom boat building involves numerous design considerations. When it comes to designing instrument panels, outsourcing to a panel producer that uses a CNC production process and allows customers to design their own pieces offers three advantages:
The accuracy of CNC technology creates a superior product
The efficiency of CNC technology reduces production cost
The customer plays a greater role in the design process
If you are designing a boat that requires custom paneling for equipment controls, circuit breaker panels, alarm controls, and/or cabins and common areas, consult with a panel producer that offers a CNC based, customer integrated production process.
In my research on custom [http://www.frontpanelexpress.com]marine panels, I studied the benefits of a CNC based, customer integrated design process for creating a [http://www.frontpanelexpress.com/service/design-service/index.html]custom boat panel.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Marine-Panels:-Designing-Custom-Instrument-Panels-for-Boats&id=6619666] Marine Panels: Designing Custom Instrument Panels for Boats
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