Wildly Intrepid Sailingvideo

Water Pump Fail & CRAZY Thunderstorms [E338]

6 July 2025 · 17 min · 1K views · Little Harbour, Abacos

What this video covers

A failing engine water pump forces a crew to prioritise sailing over motoring while navigating the Abacos in the Bahamas.0:29 The host identifies the issue as a worn bearing after observing significant shaft wobble and squeaking.11:20 To mitigate the failure, the host periodically sprays lubricant into the pump's weep holes and tightens the drive belt to reduce play.1:46 Despite the mechanical risk, the crew continues their passage to Little Harbor to avoid waiting for parts in a location with limited shipping access.2:07 They encounter severe thunderstorms and high winds, necessitating careful timing of short coastal hops to avoid adverse weather.10:08 When manoeuvring in 20-knot winds, the crew struggles with a shared winch configuration for the jib sheet and furling line, ultimately opting to motor briefly to maintain control in a narrow channel.16:10 The crew plans to source a rebuild kit or a replacement pump upon reaching the United States.3:44

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