The temperatures are rising and spring time is just around the corner and around the marina people are starting to get ready for a new season. Including me! During my Atlantic Crossing I had a lot of time to compile a to-do list, and as it’s pretty long it’s good to get going!
Antisense W2K-1 NMEA2000 to WiFi gateway
As a tech guy I love tech stuff and getting BAIA’s data on my mobile device is something I really wanted to do.
BAIA came equipped with an Actisense NGT-1 USB which I never used. So replacing it for the W2K was easy!
After connecting it to the STng network I configured the device to connect to my existing WiFi network instead of running its own AP and then I could connect iBoat seamlessly to the data service.
All the NMEA2000 data was directly available (TWS and DPT) added to the sidebar in the screenshot. And to get AIS data I had to buy a module to enable it. It works without any issues.
On my iPhone I have installed NMEAremote, which is an app that transforms your phone in a data display and is also capable of sounding alarms. Which is probably going to be my best buddy during the Silverrudder as I have my phone on me all the time. The app also works on an iPad. Link below the image if you want to check that out.
I will write a more in depth review on these new things after I test them while out sailing.
Navionics chart update
Obviously I didn’t forget my Raymarine Axiom plotters as the Navionics subscription has expired it was time to update them as well. The easiest way is just to plug the SD card into your computer and renew the subscription using the Chart app.
VHF upgrade
When I bought the boat last year I had to reprogram the VHF radio with the new MMSI. This was nicely done by Kolding Marine Service but as of January this year we have the new VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) requirement and the Lawrence LVR-880 was just too old to update. I was considering upgrading to the Raymarine RAY63 for a while now, so I went ahead and got it.
After enlarging the existing hole with my multitool it was plug and play. Updating the unit with the new VDES channels didn’t take much time and was easily done from the Axiom plotter.
note: If you have multiple plotters (like me) the datamaster (DM) has to perform the updates!
The RAY63 sounds good and allowed for a secondary external wired mic which I’ll probably want. So I’ll have to see where to install that and how to run the wires. But that’s a project for another time.
Obviously I did a VHF test with the Dutch Coastguard and I was received loud and clear. So that’s good.
Fridge fan rattle repair
When I turned on the fridge I heard a rattle so I looked into it and found the cooling fan in need of a service. So I removed it and after a clean I reinstalled it with some extra washers and it’s now running smooth and silent.
Basic engine maintenance
Obviously spring time means engine maintenance! Last year when winter proofing I cracked the Vetus strainer cap by not using ‘the tool’ to unscrew it. So I bought the tool a new cap and a new rubber seal and properly replaced it.
Then it was time to swap out the waterpump impeller an easy 5 minute job that should never be overlooked, postponed or skipped.
The engine looks in decent shape with only 482 hours. But the alternator belt slightly rubs against the block on the lower pulley so I’ll have to sort that out as there is a fine black dust everywhere. And black rubber dust is usually a sign of a failing alternator belt, so I’ll be replacing it.
After the impeller change I started the engine and she purrs like usual.
I’ll do an oil and filter change and clean up the entire block so that future maintenance is a breeze.
Spreader boots
From the deck looking up I could see something not quite right at the spreaders. And instead of climbing up I can just fly the drone to make some pictures.
This spreader boot has seen better days and I suspect it was damaged in the storm that ripped up the head sail and was just overlooked. So I’ll climb up there soon to get these off and replace them. I also flew to the mast head and it all looks fine up there.
Wrapping up
It’s been a busy couple of days working aboard BAIA but there is lots more to do! I’m replacing all fire extinguishers and flares. And when the weather is a bit warmer I’ll start on the outside. Washing the boat and cleaning and lubing all blocks and tracks to make sure everything runs smooth. And it’s nice to see other people out in the marina basically doing the same thing. Spring is upon us! I’m ready for nice weather!