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maintenance

How To: Stuffing Box Upkeep

A conventional stuffing box requires little maintenance: 
Periodically change the ropelike stuffing, inspect the hose clamps for rust, and replace the flexible hose every five years or so. “Hands-On Sailor” by Steve D’Antonio from our November 2011 issue.

Revive Your Dinghy

If your old inflatable is looking a little tired or not holding air like it should, sealants and paint can help make it look new again. “Hands-On Sailor” from our October 2011 issue.

Go After Those Rust Stains

Discolored fiberglass around stainless-steel hardware is a warning sign of potentially harmful corrosion taking place beneath the metal. “Hands-on Sailor” from our September 2011 issue.

Brighten Up Your Topsides

A cost-conscious cruising couple parlays D.I.Y. savings in labor and a favorable exchange rate into a colorful makeover.

Bare Is Better

Painted aluminum requires constant vigilance against cracks that can lead to damage from corrosion.

Overhaul Your Winches

A neglected winch is at best inefficient and at worst dangerous. Old grease gathers salt and dirt and creates friction or can even cause the winch to seize. To prevent this, clean and lubricate them every season or two.

Back It Up

Installing new backing plates where hardware and fittings are mounted on your rig is easier than you might think.

How To: Stuffing Box Upkeep

A conventional stuffing box requires little maintenance: 
Periodically change the ropelike stuffing, inspect the hose clamps for rust, and replace the flexible hose every five years or so. “Hands-On Sailor” by Steve D’Antonio from our November 2011 issue.

Revive Your Dinghy

If your old inflatable is looking a little tired or not holding air like it should, sealants and paint can help make it look new again. “Hands-On Sailor” from our October 2011 issue.

Go After Those Rust Stains

Discolored fiberglass around stainless-steel hardware is a warning sign of potentially harmful corrosion taking place beneath the metal. “Hands-on Sailor” from our September 2011 issue.

Brighten Up Your Topsides

A cost-conscious cruising couple parlays D.I.Y. savings in labor and a favorable exchange rate into a colorful makeover.

Bare Is Better

Painted aluminum requires constant vigilance against cracks that can lead to damage from corrosion.

Overhaul Your Winches

A neglected winch is at best inefficient and at worst dangerous. Old grease gathers salt and dirt and creates friction or can even cause the winch to seize. To prevent this, clean and lubricate them every season or two.

Back It Up

Installing new backing plates where hardware and fittings are mounted on your rig is easier than you might think.

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