As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away. Outside Storage? It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.                          Rinse/Flush Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat. Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present. Salt Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion. Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine. Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4* STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel. Batteries Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement. Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery. If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat. Cleaning Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint. Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins. Cover Up If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html and https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information. Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. _________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.  

Boat Outfitting Equipment and Supplies When it comes time for outfitting your boat, you can get all your boating supplies and boating accessories from us. You will never need to go anywhere else for your boat outfitting, because we have all the boat supplies you need. If you're looking for anchors/chain/rope, anodes, antifouling systems or boarding ladders, we have you covered. We can also offer you a selection of bottom paint and bow thrusters to choose from. You may also want cleaning supplies that offer deck/galley options so you can get your boat sparkling and ready to enjoy. We also have display mounts and docking accessories to complete your outfitting needs.

P4 Color Pack - Fluxgate Compass & Rotary Feedback f/Yacht Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional Features: IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface Configurable for all types of recreational mid-size to large pleasure craft PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response Multi-Station capability with security station lock SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional) Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional) Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more Standard Mounting Bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4 RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity Additional Features: 9 level backlit LCD display Color head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent Multi-station capability with security station lock Automatic trim Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems Specifications: Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps Network: NMEA 2000 Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec) Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass Course Resolution: 1° Course Detection: 0.5° Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display

P4 Color Pack - Fluxgate Compass & Rotary Feedback f/Yacht Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional Features: IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface Configurable for all types of recreational mid-size to large pleasure craft PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response Multi-Station capability with security station lock SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional) Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional) Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more Standard Mounting Bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4 RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity Additional Features: 9 level backlit LCD display Color head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent Multi-station capability with security station lock Automatic trim Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems Specifications: Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps Network: NMEA 2000 Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec) Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass Course Resolution: 1° Course Detection: 0.5° Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display

Steering Trim Control Unit Trim Switches on the Steering Wheel Improve Safety and Performance.  This steering trim control unit is molded of black plastic with raised white letters to not only enhance boat appearance but also provide the ultimate in control of any high performance boat. The steering trim control unit mounts easily to steering wheel spokes to place engine trim control at your finger tips for maximum safety and ease of operation. The weather proof, rubber booted, push button switches combined with a black urethane coiled cord provide a unit which will provide trim control without removing hands from steering wheel. Features: Puts trim switches on steering wheel for convenience and safety Allows driver to keep both hands on the steering wheel Mounts easily on steering wheel spokes Weatherproof rubber booted switches Rugged urethane coiled cord Can be used for trim control or jack plate control WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

P4 Color Pack - Fluxgate Compass & Rotary Feedback for Commercial Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional Features: IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration WORK Mode suitable for Towboats and Workboats NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface Configurable for Fishing, Offshore Vessels, Workboats, Towboats and Yachts PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response Multi-Station capability with security station lock SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional) Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional) Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more Standard Mounting bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4 RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity Additional Features: 9 level backlit LCD display Colour head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent Multi-station capability with security station lock Automatic trim Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems Specifications: Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps Network: NMEA 2000 Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec) Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass Course Resolution: 1° Course Detection: 0.5° Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display

P4 Color Pack - Magenetic Compass Sensor & Rotary Feedback for Commercial Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional Features: IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration WORK Mode suitable for Towboats and Workboats NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface Configurable for Fishing, Offshore Vessels, Workboats, Towboats and Yachts PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response Multi-Station capability with security station lock SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional) Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional) Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more Standard Mounting bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4 RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity Additional Features: 9 level backlit LCD display Colour head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent Multi-station capability with security station lock Automatic trim Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems Specifications: Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps Network: NMEA 2000 Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec) Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass Course Resolution: 1° Course Detection: 0.5° Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display

UC168-1 Hydraulic Steering Cylinder Inboard boat hydraulic steering cylinder. Balanced cylinder, an equal number of turns lock-to-lock.

Course Computer Unit (CCU) - Reactor™ 40 Steer-by-wire Garmin's CCU is the brain of the Reactor 40 autopilot system, containing sensory equipment used to determine heading and rate of turn. Connect the CCU to your boat's steering system and the NMEA 2000® network to communicate with your GHC™ 20 and optional NMEA 2000-compatible devices. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Course Computer Unit (CCU) - Reactor™ 40 Steer-by-wire f/Viking® VIPER™ Garmin's CCU is the brain of the Reactor 40 autopilot system, containing sensory equipment used to determine heading and rate of turn. Connect the CCU to your boat's steering system and the NMEA 2000® network to communicate with your GHC™ 20 and optional NMEA 2000-compatible devices. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Towing & Trailering   Trailering can add new dimensions to the sense of freedom that comes with boating, and that's one of the reasons it's so popular. With a trailerable boat, you're free to boat on just about any lake, river, bay or inlet. Trailering is great way to explore different waterways in your state or region it's also the most affordable way to store your boat. The tips below can help you learn all about towing and boat trailer maintenance.   Look for Certified Trailers  NMMA Trailer Logo. Highly trained third-party inspectors visit the manufacturer each year and physically inspect boat trailer models, ensuring compliance to all certification requirements.     Trailering your boat can add new dimensions to the freedom that comes with boating.  If you've never trailered a boat, there are several things you need to consider. First, determine the towing capacity of your car, truck or SUV. You can find this information in the owner's manual of your vehicle. Usually compact family sedans are not suitable for towing more than a small, aluminum fishing boat or PWC with a properly mounted hitch and lighting plug . Most standard pick-up trucks and SUVs can trailer boats up to 25 feet, but always consult your vehicle owner's manual for limitations.   The owner's manual of your boat will list the "dry” weight of the boat, less fuel and gear. When you're assessing your vehicle's towing capacity, be sure to add several hundred pounds to the dry weight to account for gear, gas and accessories.     As the weight, length and beam (width) of a given boat increase, so does the muscle power needed to launch and retrieve it. A small boat may be easy for one person to handle at the ramp, but larger boats (generally those more than 25 feet) may require additional hands. Don't be afraid to ask for help at the ramp if you need it, trailer boaters are always happy to help.   STOP Invasive Species   By following these guidelines:   Never release live or dead bait or bait packaging into a water body, or release aquatic animals from one water body into another. Share live bait with other anglers or empty your bait bucket in the trash before leaving the area. Don't drive the boat through aquatic plants; avoid chopping vegetation with outboard motor propeller Once on dry land, drain water out of every conceivable place that can hold water: Follow factory guidelines for eliminating water from engines. All engines hold water, but jet drives on personal watercraft and other boats can hold extra water. Remove the stern drain plug and put boat on an incline so that all the water drains out. Drain livewells, bilge and transom wells. Empty water out of kayaks, canoes, rafts, etc. Remove any visible plant, fish, and animal or fragment as well as mud, which can house them. Check trailer, in and around the boat itself, the anchor, props or steering nozzle (PWCs and jet boats), lines, fenders, paddles Rinse your boat, trailer, and equipment. Clean and dry anything that came in contact with the water. It is best to use high-pressure, hot (104°F) water or a solution of one percent table salt and water. A garden hose will work if no other option is available. Air-dry your boat and equipment for as long as possible—at least five days is optimal.               Specials   Closeouts    Remanufactured    Rebates  

It's that time again when Old Man Winter is shortening or ending our sailing season. Maybe you store your boat in a garage, barn, or at a marina. Now is the time to brush up on safe and useful storage tips.   1. When packing up, clean your electronics with a microfiber cloth by wiping down buttons and screens. A soft cloth is recommended with bottled water to clean screens that may have been stained by saltwater. Screen cleaners will not do the job. You may want to document the wiring so that installation is easy when you are ready to launch.   2. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present.   3. Remove all batteries. Charge your batteries, clean the terminals, and put a light coat of grease on the terminals. Store your batteries in a warm, dry place. Not in the boat.   4. Winterize the engine: Use fresh water to flush the engine, including the cooling system, to remove corrosion, dirt, salt, and residue Refill the cooling system with antifreeze. Warm up the engine to loosen impurities. Replace the oil and filters. Look for the residue of old oil. Remove and store all belts.   5. Fill the engine with gas and stabilizer. Run the engine for 15 minutes so that the mixture reaches the engine. If your engine uses E-10 fuel, take extra care in that it absorbs moisture ten times more than typical gasoline. (source: trailervalet.com).   6. A thorough cleaning of the boat before you store is a must, whether you have a small fishing boat or a six-cabin yacht. Soap and water will do a thorough job. Clean lockers, refrigerators, coolers, sinks, and cushions. Open all and allow to dry before you store. Next, clean the entire outside from bow to stern. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Leaving a clean boat will make the launch process a lot easier when it's time.   7. Keeping mold and mildew at bay: Mildew comes from humidity. The best way to reduce humidity is ventilation. Although some skippers button up their boats to be airtight for the winter, there has to be some ventilation source. Use products that absorb moisture such as Damp Rid or purchase a dehumidifier such as Eva-Dry Mini Dehumidifiers. Find and seal any leaks and keep the boat clean. Cover the boat with either shrink wrap or a boat cover.   8. Shrinkwrap or a canvas boat cover? Ratings and opinions from the Hull Truth Boating Forum suggest that canvas covers are a better option for durability and cost. The canvas covers can be used season after season. With shrink wrap covers, there is the cost of installation every year. One source said if you are north of Boston, shrink wrapping is preferable because snow will slide right off the plastic wrap, versus weighing down the canvas. Contributors also felt the boat stays cleaner with shrink wrap.      Remove boat cushions, or not? The jury is out about removing boat cushions. Many skippers remove all cushions and bedding. Others spray the cushion bottoms with anti-mold spray. If keeping cabin cushions on the boat, stand them up on end to reduce the chance of mold. Most important is to keep as much moisture out of the cabin, as mentioned above.   Do everything you can to keep your boat critter-free during the winter. Lock all windows. Many small, rabid animals, especially raccoons, are looking for a warm place to nest for the winter. Raccoons are drawn by any food left in boats and will chew carpeting and cushions. Once inside a locked boat, they have no way to exit since they have most likely fallen from an open window. The messes they leave, including their waste, can be very unpleasant and a costly wake-up call in the spring. Keep mice out by plugging up scuppers and vents. Many skippers use Dryer Fresh Cab rodent repellent hoping the strong scent will repel rodents.   Circle Saturday, May 22, 2021, on your calendar. That is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water for a great boating season.   Fair Winds. Smooth Sailing     To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. __________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com    

Happy New Year! This past year has been a time of tumultuous panoptic upsets: The pandemic, political unrest, and nature's mayhem of hurricanes, tornadoes, and fires. However, boaters still have our beautiful waterways, lakes, harbors, and our oceans to enjoy and use as an oasis of tranquility, peace, and sports. We eagerly look forward to the boat shows across the country to learn new techniques, sample new products, and get ready for a safe and fun-filled boating season. The following is a snapshot and calendar of 2021 Boat Shows going live and in-person and shows going virtual. Before attending an in-person show, please go to the show's link to find out about COVID-19 policies. The big three shows that draw national and international crowds are the Ft Lauderdale, Annapolis, and the Chicago Boat Shows. Chicago The Chicago Boat Show, usually held the second week of January, was cancelled for this year. Show promoters have told fans to plan on the in-person show from January 12-16, 2022. Annapolis, MD Annapolis, MD, promises a wonderful in-person United States Sailboat Show October 14-18, 2021, at the City Dock in beautiful downtown, historic Annapolis. This internationally acclaimed sailboat show is recognized as the world's largest and most prestigious sailboat show. Fort Lauderdale Miami -The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (or FLIBS as it is affectionately called) will be held October 27 - 31, 2021. The show claims to be the largest boat show globally, covering more than 2,992,367 square feet. The 2021 Boat Shows Cleveland Boat Show & Fishing Expo. January 15-24, 2021. Virtual Seattle Boat Show. January 28-31, 2021. Virtual  Michiana Boat & Sports Show February 19-21, 2021 The Boat Show in Springfield, IL February 26-28, 2021 Lake County Boat Show February 26-28, 2021 Akron Boat Show & Water Sports February/March 2021 Downtown Knoxville Boat Show March 4-7, 2021  World Fishing & Outdoor, Suffern, NY March 4-7, 2021  Orlando Boat Show  March 5-7, 2021 Atlantic City Boat Show April 7-11, 2021  Tampa Boat Show September 10-12, 2021 Norwalk Boat Show, Norwalk, CT September 23-26, 2021 2020 – Catalina Yachts Suffers Two Losses Frank Butler, the founder of Catalina Yachts, died in late November 2020. Frank Willis Butler, 92, president and Chief Executive Officer of Catalina Yachts, died at Westlake Village on Nov. 15, 2020, from unexpected complications from a recent illness. Butler founded Catalina Yachts in 1969 in Hollywood, CA. The company has grown to become the largest builder of fiberglass production sailboats in the United States.Long Beach Yacht Club Commodore Charles Legeman said, "Frank Butler is the one person who helped take the Congressional Cup to the top level in the world by his donation of the Catalina 37s, which were specifically built for match racing." Catalina Yacht fleets of Catalina owners sprang up across the county. Many skippers, both of us included, owned Catalina sailboats throughout our sailing history. Catalina sailboats provided sailing ease in addition to sound design and were very forgiving for the less-than-experienced sailor. Another Blow to Catalina Yachts In mid-December of 2020, the Catalina Yacht factory in Largo, FL, was hit by a tornado. The high winds did extensive damage to the factory building, and boat molds that weigh 20,000 pounds were pushed around like paper. Sharon Day is the company's president and explained, "Workers at the plant work a 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. shift, so no workers were on duty when the tornado hit." As we venture into 2021, we wish our readers safe boating, fair winds, and smooth sailing. To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. ______________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com  

    Purchasing and owning a boat is a major investment. If you want to get the most from your investment, you must keep your boat in working order and in good condition.   Many new boat owners don’t know how to keep up with maintenance. Fortunately, it’s not impractical if you understand what boat maintenance entails and develop a system. Below, CLR Marine discusses some maintenance essentials to prolong your boat’s lifespan and avoid safety issues on the water!   Engines   No component is perhaps more critical than your boat’s engine. Engine failure is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous when you’re out on the water. That’s why it’s important to prepare and repair your engine while you’re on land and have access to the necessary parts.   There are many steps to checking and maintaining a boat engine, but here are a few of the most crucial ones   ●Replace all engine filters and fluids each year. ●Inspect all hoses and clamps, replacing them as needed. ●Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage, and replace any components that are not in tiptop shape.  ●Regularly evaluate the ventilation and exhaust systems. ●Regularly inspect the raw water pump, replacing the rubber impeller once a year.  ●Closely evaluate hoses, cables, and any other engine components.   The easiest way to keep up with the responsibilities is to use PDF files to track, update, and share maintenance schedules and duties. Use this tool to add pages to a PDF and easily modify the document as needed.   Electrical Components   Your boat’s electrical system is also challenging to maintain when you’re already on the water. Avoid leaving the radio, light, or other electrical parts on for extended periods when the engine is running; otherwise, you could face a dead battery.   Inspecting the battery and cable connection for corrosion and other damage is also a good idea. Replace the battery, cables, breakers, switches, fuses, and any other parts that need it. Further, you’ll want to ensure all the lights are functioning and that you have quality jumper cables for emergencies.   Hull, Propeller, and Motor   It’s critical to check the hull, propeller, and motor to ensure they are in top condition. Fight the temptation to procrastinate on replacing any necessary components until next season. The last thing you want to do is forget and face problems on the water.   The propellers should be properly secured, straight, and undamaged. Ensure the hull doesn’t have any distortions, cracks, or blisters, and give it a good deep cleaning. While you’re at it, evaluate your anchor and its rode to confirm they are up to the task.   Safety Gear   The importance of having a good set of jumper cables for emergencies. Several other items are necessary to protect you and others on the water. Make sure you have the following safety equipment and that they’re in working order:   ●Life jackets ●Fire extinguishers ●Carbon monoxide detector ●A basic first aid kit   ●An emergency signal kit   Cosmetics   Finally, you want to ensure your boat looks the part. This means cleaning it regularly and winterizing it for the cold months. Also, Make sure you have the right to use the right supplies and tactics to keep your vinyl upholstery sparkling and free of mildew stains.   Don’t allow your investment to go to waste. Keeping up with boat maintenance is essential for keeping your boat safe, functioning, and attractive. Coming up with a schedule and a checklist can make the difference between enjoying a long-lasting boat and paying for expensive repairs.     Would you like to read more helpful content or browse our wide selection of marine supplies? Visit CLRMarine.com today!   Written By Kelli Brewer

Dual Rotary Steering Helm FC Features: Fast connect, simple installation All stainless steel cable output ends Corrosion-resistant materials Optional 90° or 20° installation Standard 3/4” tapered shaft Lock-to-lock steering wheel turns: approx. 3.8 Stroke: 9” (228 mm) Maximum allowable steering wheel diameter: 16” (406 mm) Minimum steering cable bend radius: 7.9” (200 mm) Minimal feedback Compact for mounting T72FC steering systems are not to be used on boats equipped with engines that exceed the maximum horsepower rating of the boat For boats faster than 50 mph our hydraulic steering systems are recommended Exceeds EN 28848 safety standards Exceeds ABYC P17 safety standards