Sailing Squibvideo
Squib´s Refit Episode 37
October 12, 2023 · 18 min · 901 views
What this video covers
The refit of the pocket catamaran *Squib* focuses on electrical system upgrades and structural repairs to the cockpit console.0:10 The owner installs two 100-watt solar panels on the roof, fabricating custom mounting brackets to ensure proper clearance and alignment.6:21 To manage the charging of a 5kWh lithium iron phosphate battery bank, the owner manually covers panels to prevent overcharging during periods of high solar output.8:57
Structural work involves closing unused holes and mounting points on the cockpit console to prepare for a new switch panel, which will centralize controls for navigation lights, bilge pumps, and the autopilot.12:22 The owner removes old wiring, fills holes with epoxy and plywood inserts, and uses a Makita 125mm random orbital sander to prep surfaces for painting.12:52 Additionally, the mounting bracket for a windvane self-steering system is disassembled, sanded, and rounded to facilitate fiberglass reinforcement.18:37 The project concludes with the preparation of surfaces for final sanding and fairing.18:14
Managing solar input manually prevents overcharging lithium battery banks when the vessel is unoccupied.
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