{"id":49080,"date":"2022-09-12T16:08:19","date_gmt":"2022-09-12T20:08:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/?p=49080"},"modified":"2023-05-06T18:19:56","modified_gmt":"2023-05-06T22:19:56","slug":"the-diy-dilemma-charter-edition","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/charter\/the-diy-dilemma-charter-edition\/","title":{"rendered":"The DIY Dilemma: Charter Edition"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\"Half <\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n
\n Dinghy engine won\u2019t start? You can troubleshoot a few basic things before calling the base.<\/span>\n Stefano Garau \/ Shutterstock.com<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t <\/figcaption>\n <\/section>\n\t\t\n\n\n\n\n

As sailors and boat owners, we are, by nature, inveterate tinkerers. A sailboat has so many intertwined systems that there is almost always something in need of our attention. It might be a clogged head (ick!), a blocked engine water intake, roller furling that is doing neither, or any of several million other things.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So it\u2019s no surprise that sailors on bareboat charters<\/a>, with handy multi-tools in their pockets, don\u2019t hesitate to fix things. No one wants to waste hours of precious charter time waiting for a repair boat from the charter base to fix the freshwater pump or clean an engine strainer or troubleshoot a balky outboard. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Faced with a problem, we (and I speak for myself here) will flip out our multitool or pull out the usually meager toolbox (rusty pliers, Allen wrenches that fit nothing, and an abused Phillips screwdriver) and tackle the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Service managers at several major charter operations have a one-word piece of advice for people like us: Don\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the service \u00admanagers are more emphatic: Please<\/em> don\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the most popular bareboating areas such as the British Virgin Islands and Bahamas, charter bases have fast chase boats that can have a repair team at your boat in no time. Raul Bermudez, vice president of MarineMax Vacations in the BVI, says his company\u2019s nearly 40-knot Aquila 28 and an on-staff repair team provide quick solutions. Charterers can then negotiate a discount or refund for any lost time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a worst-case scenario, when you are far from the charter base (Scotland and Thailand come to mind), your first course of action should be to call the base, describe the problem, and (hopefully) let them walk you through a solution. As Barney Crook, managing director of TMM Yacht Charters in the BVI, says, \u201cWe prefer that charterers in general do not try to fix anything themselves unless they are being guided by one of our operations team.\u201d Many repairs are needed because of operator error, he adds, and can be resolved on the phone.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Charter manager Ross Keeble at Conch Charters in the BVI<\/a> puts the question of repairs succinctly: \u201cCommon sense will rule the day, but not everyone appears to pack their common sense when on vacation\u2014but they will bring their multitool.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

That said, here\u2019s a look at some common bareboat \u00adproblems and whether you should tackle them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prop Wrap<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A common problem is getting a line wrapped around the prop. This usually happens because you failed to appoint a \u201ctender tender\u201d:  someone to make sure the tender is snugged up tight while docking, anchoring or maneuvering. Allowing any slack in the towline (or painter) is just an invitation for the hungry prop to eat it.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first instinct for most bareboaters is to grab a knife and a dive mask. \u201cThis is unfortunately not as innocent as it might seem,\u201d Keeble says, because a wrapped prop \u201ccauses a massive amount of unseen damage to saildrives and to prop-shaft-driven vessels. It\u2019s what you cannot see, and it dramatically shortens the life span of oil seals, can elongate the hub of the prop, and create premature failure of the transmission. We need to be informed, because it\u2019s always the future customers that suffer from a bareboater not owning up to a prop wrap.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t think a wrap can be a major problem? On one charter, it was the mainsheet in the water as we rounded up to pick up a mooring under sail (yes, we were showing off). The prop was barely ticking over, but it was enough to suck in the mainsheet, which, as it tightened, yanked the entire prop shaft out of the hull, leaving us with a 2-inch stream of incoming water to solve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Head Won\u2019t Flush<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Did someone try to flush something they hadn\u2019t eaten first? That could be the problem, in which case, call the base and be prepared if there is a charge for this revolting project. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if you have a plunger aboard, don\u2019t use it: It can just make things worse. One item to check is the seacock. Make sure it has not been closed inadvertently. If your boat has a holding tank, make sure it isn\u2019t full, which will prevent the head from flushing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\"A <\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n
\n Resisting the urge to tinker keeps the liability for onboard systems off your shoulders. <\/span>\n Corlaffra \/ Shutterstock.com<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t <\/figcaption>\n <\/section>\n\t\t\n\n\n

Air Conditioning Stopped <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

 \u201cIf you set it below 70 degrees, it will freeze up,\u201d Keeble says. \u201cGo outside into the cockpit, enjoy the breeze, and wait. It will defrost. Use your multitool to open a beer.\u201d  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the air conditioning is heating rather than cooling, did someone push the heat button? And if the AC is blowing but without cold air, check for water flow out of the vessel. If there is no water, then clean the seaweed out of the bilge-mounted filter (be sure to close the seacock).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Generator (or Main Engine) Is Overheating<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is often caused by \u00adseaweed or a plastic bag \u00adclogging the water intake.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cClearing seaweed is a common issue, and we show our bareboaters how to do that during the briefing,\u201d Bermudez says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you can\u2019t flush the intake from inside the boat, this is when a dive mask and a piece of coat hanger can solve the problem when you\u2019re ready for a swim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Outboard Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

These are among the most frequently listed issues and, hopefully, easy to solve.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What if the outboard doesn\u2019t start?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First, do you have fuel in the tank? Repair crews always carry a gallon can of outboard fuel because bareboaters rarely think to unscrew the cap and look in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While checking the fuel level, make sure the air vent on the tank is open. Some engines have a fuel shut-off lever (probably mentioned in the briefing), so make sure it\u2019s open.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If there is fuel, why isn\u2019t it getting to the engine? Do not ever<\/em> squeeze the bulb a few times on the hose: That\u2019s a sure way to flood the engine. Instead, make sure the hose is securely attached to the engine and fuel tank. There should be a solid click<\/em> when it\u2019s properly seated. Next, make sure the tank is not sitting on the hose and strangling it.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most modern outboards have a kill cord on the front of the engine that will stop it if it isn\u2019t fully in place. If that cord is missing, Keeble recommends using a hair band, zip tie or piece of string to fake it.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the outboard runs and then shuts off, is there a hole in the fuel line? Most repair teams approve of a bareboater cutting out the offending piece and reattaching the clamp. Just be sure to report this after the charter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your outboard is \u00adstumbling and there is a plug wrench available, pull the plugs to see if they are fouled with oil. Dry them with a \u00adpaper towel, but don\u2019t<\/em> try to reset the gap. Reinstall them, and you\u2019re likely to be off again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Electrical Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The first question troubleshooters for everything from computers to electric toasters ask is: \u201cIs it plugged in?\u201d Aboard a boat when the (windlass, davit, winch, whatever) doesn\u2019t work, the question is: \u201cDid you check the breaker?\u201d  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t have power to an outlet, it might be a GFI outlet, so push the reset button.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fridge Is Warm<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is definitely a no-no. Don\u2019t tinker with the fridge aside from checking the temperature dial to make sure it\u2019s at the proper setting.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The solution here is to buy ice until the repair crew arrives. Remember to drain out the melt water. Use the ice for something cold with an umbrella in it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sink Won\u2019t Drain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As with the head, something has clogged the hose. Did someone accidentally close the seacock? If someone admits to dumping last night\u2019s pasta into the sink, then pour hot water into it until anything greasy breaks up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Broken Alternator Belt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Some charter boats carry a spare belt, which is sometimes taped in position, ready to go.  Your multitool can loosen the pulley (usually on the alternator) to allow the belt replacement. Tighten the belt and use your thumb so it deflects about three-eighths of an inch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Report this to the base, and don\u2019t try to be cute by making a belt out of duct tape or a piece of knotted cord.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Electronics Issues<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Even if your last name rhymes with Gates or Jobs, don\u2019t mess with the electronics. Period. Call the base. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battery Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If the engine won\u2019t start, it\u2019s likely one of two issues. First, the battery is dead (who left the lights on last night?) More likely, corrosion on a battery-terminal post or lug is shorting out the system.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even using the rusty pliers, most bareboaters can remove the terminal from the post and easily see if there is whitish corrosion. Scrape away the corrosion, tighten it securely, and you\u2019ll be underway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Electrical issues are usually one of three things: loose, wet or dirty wires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stove Won\u2019t Light<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The sequence is to turn on the propane at the tank, and then turn on the solenoid. Most bareboats have a second tank in place, so you can switch to a full tank if you suspect an empty one. Push in and hold the stove knob to make sure the thermocouple is getting hot.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One service manager reported a customer shoving an orange between the safety grab rail and the knob to keep the thermocouple functioning while cooking. Another crew called the base, complaining that the barbecue had no propane tank so they couldn\u2019t light the grill. It was a charcoal barbecue. \u2019Nuff said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sailing-Gear Fixes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most sailing-gear problems involve chafe of a line (roller furling), which can usually be fixed by knotting the line where it doesn\u2019t run through a block. Chafe on sheets can be solved by reversing the line to remove the chafed section from loaded areas, such as mainsheet blocks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On one bareboat, the pin holding the gooseneck went overboard when the cotter pin failed, but lashing the (rusty) screwdriver from the toolbox into place solved the problem. On another boat, the shackle on the mainsheet failed, and the crew solved the problem using the padlock from the cabin door.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One crew had a batten break, risking a tear in the mainsail if it wasn\u2019t fixed. The main was lowered, the two parts of the batten were removed, and they sailed for a day minus a batten until the repair crew brought a new one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Water Pump Running Nonstop<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Besides possibly burning out the pump, this can run your water tank dry, meaning no showers. Keep the water-pump breaker turned off until you need water, and remember to turn it off afterward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Engine Seems to Lack Oil<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This was mentioned by a couple of service techs, particularly with three-cylinder Yanmars, which, one said, \u201chave a habit of playing a game of hide-the-oil.\u201d  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When in doubt, open the oil-filler cap and redip the oil stick. This should relieve any internal pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adding any fluids (oil or water) is a no-no, several service techs emphasized. One bareboater added fluid every day and returned to the base with nearly a gallon too much oil in the engine, which had overflowed, making a mess of the engine-room bilge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Final Advice<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Keep in mind that there are liability issues when you start tinkering. You might think you\u2019re curing the problem when, in fact, you\u2019re making it worse. That puts the liability for repairs and replacement parts in your lap\u2014or wallet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trust me, you don\u2019t want that. Pick up the phone or VHF radio and call the base. The staff can talk you through any problem, or get a repair crew to you posthaste.\u00a0

With over four decades of experience, Chris Caswell was bareboat chartering when some of us were still playing with rubber duckies in the tub. Find more tips at his website: chartersavvy.com<\/a> \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Four Rules for Bareboat Repairs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1. Always start with the simplest cures. Breaker on? Gas valve on?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Take your time and carefully think through any repair. Are you qualified?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Call the base and have the staff talk you through simple repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Never, ever take apart anything. Just don\u2019t.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Before you bust out your multitool halfway to Anegada on someone else’s boat, know these common bareboat problems and whether you should attempt to tackle them.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":49082,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"BS_author_type":"BS_author_is_guest","BS_guest_author_name":"Chris Caswell","BS_guest_author_url":"","hydra_display_date":"","hydra_display_updated":false,"_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"161","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Should you tackle common bareboat problems on a charter, or ask for help from charter base? Problems include clogged head and outboard engine.","_yoast_wpseo_title":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","arc_story_id":"","arc_website_url":"","custom_permalink":"","arc_subtype":"","arc_exclude_from_feeds":false,"sponsored":false,"sponsored_label":"Sponsored Content","sponsored_display_label":false,"sponsored_image":false,"post_right_rail":true,"post_right_rail_ad_1":true,"post_right_rail_ad_2":true,"post_right_rail_ad_3":false,"post_right_rail_ad_4":false,"post_right_rail_recirc":true,"fixed_anchor_ad":true,"post_top_ad":true,"post_off_ramp":true,"post_taboola":false,"labels":true,"apple_news_api_created_at":"","apple_news_api_id":"","apple_news_api_modified_at":"","apple_news_api_revision":"","apple_news_api_share_url":"","apple_news_coverimage":0,"apple_news_coverimage_caption":"","apple_news_is_hidden":false,"apple_news_is_paid":false,"apple_news_is_preview":false,"apple_news_is_sponsored":false,"apple_news_maturity_rating":"","apple_news_metadata":"\"\"","apple_news_pullquote":"","apple_news_pullquote_position":"","apple_news_slug":"","apple_news_sections":"\"\"","apple_news_suppress_video_url":false,"apple_news_use_image_component":false,"footnotes":"","ad_settings_ads_on_this_page":true,"ad_settings_automatic_ad_injection_into_the_content":true,"ad_targeting":"","sponsored_url":"","social_share":true},"categories":[161],"tags":[169,183,319,1922],"acf":[],"apple_news_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49080"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=49080"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49080\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/49082"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=49080"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=49080"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cruisingworld.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=49080"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}