Practical Sailorvideo

Top 5 Boat Hacks - Boat Maintenance Tips and Tricks

August 10, 2024 · 9 min · 108K views · Georgetown, Bahamas

What this video covers

Engine alternators typically output 13.8 volts, which is insufficient for fully charging lead-acid batteries; shore power chargers or solar MPPT controllers like the Victron line provide more efficient, complete charging cycles.0:46 For deck core rot, injecting epoxy into drilled holes fails to stop decay because epoxy cannot penetrate wet wood or kill existing rot.3:55 The most reliable repair requires cutting out the damaged section, drying the core, and replacing the material.4:18 When sourcing plastic for non-structural shims or panels, PVC trim like Azek or inexpensive dollar-store cutting boards serve as cost-effective alternatives to expensive marine-grade Starboard.5:34 To manage odors in urine-diverting toilets, adding white vinegar to the collection bottle lowers the pH and prevents bacterial fermentation.7:14 Finally, Cetol wood coatings offer a balance of durability and aesthetics for teak, requiring significantly less labor than traditional spar varnish.8:44

Watch on YouTube

More from Practical Sailor

The MASSIVE Hunter Deck Saloon 41Sep 2026How To Go Cheap! The Annapolis Sailboat ShowSep 2026Is the Hunter 356 a Bad Boat?Sep 2026Why You Might Regret Buying a WatermakerSep 2026

From Practical Sailor — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue