Repairs, Maintenance & DIY

Simple and more advanced projects, routine maintenance, quick ways to make big differences, solving nagging problems, tips and tools to make the work easier and getting help from pros.

Published on November 14, 2018; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Barefoot Gal had good bones but a very tired interior. It was finally time for a major renovation. Learn what all the problems were and our priorities in the update. [More] Our Boat Renovation Begins

A Better Propane Regulator

Published on September 19, 2018; last updated on August 27, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

A propane regulator that extends off the tank is just a leak waiting to happen. Here’s a better regulator installation that’s an easy DIY project. [More] A Better Propane Regulator

Stop Rattling Windows

Published on July 23, 2018; last updated on June 10, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Got rattling windows on your boat? You NEED these little gizmos! Not expensive, quick and easy to install. [More] Stop Rattling Windows

An Easier Way to Troubleshoot

Published on July 16, 2018; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

We all hate when there’s a problem and want to fix it as fast as possible. Today’s tip, from Georgia Hilton, will cut your troubleshooting time dramatically. [More] An Easier Way to Troubleshoot

Better Buoyancy Tanks

Published on June 7, 2018; last updated on February 25, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

Buoyancy tanks are a great idea on a boat. But unless they’re filled with something that won’t let that compartment fill with water, they’re useless if cracked or holed. Solve that potential problem easily! [More] Better Buoyancy Tanks

Installing a New Halyard

Published on May 7, 2018; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

No, you don’t have to go up the mast to change a halyard. See how we do it in less than 5 minutes from the deck. [More] Installing a New Halyard

An Easier Way to Splice Double Braid

Published on April 30, 2018; last updated on April 10, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

Make your own fid and have an easier time with your next double braid eye splice. Learning from the local rigging shop! [More] An Easier Way to Splice Double Braid

Removing Fuel Pickup From Tempo Tank

Published on December 11, 2017; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

How to remove a metal fuel pickup fitting from an 18-gallon Tempo tank or any similar tank. DO NOT use this technique with gasoline or other explosive fuels. [More] Removing Fuel Pickup From Tempo Tank

Fix a Leaking Aquabot

Published on November 8, 2017; last updated on June 11, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Three years of using my Aquabot multiple times a day put some wear and tear on it. But restoring it to “like new” operation is quick and cheap. [More] Fix a Leaking Aquabot

Not-So-Easy Boat Maintenance

Published on November 1, 2017; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

We all know that certain engine checks and maintenance are recommended at certain times. And we do most of them. Except those couple that are really difficult. Watch out — those can bite you in the butt! [More] Not-So-Easy Boat Maintenance

Our Boat Renovation Begins