Power Cruiser Beginner - Maintenance/Operation Basics Books

[fishboat]

Are there any books you'd recommend as primers for a new power boater / owner? I want to get ahead of maintenance issues, etc., so thinking of:

- electrical system
- outboard operation and maintenance
- plumbing, head, holding tanks
- marine radio operation / protocol

I own an NC795, but doesn't have to be specific to this boat.

Thanks, Tyson

[alenka]

Not exactly a riveting bed time read but this is a classic most boat owners carry onboard as a source of reference.

Boatowners Mechanical and Electrical Manual - Nigel Calder.

It is not cheap but I found it cheaper to buy from an online chandlers than from Amazon so search around

[Capt’n Ron]

Jan 15, 2021 1:46:12 GMT fishboat said:

Are there any books you'd recommend as primers for a new power boater / owner? I want to get ahead of maintenance issues, etc., so thinking of:

- electrical system
- outboard operation and maintenance
- plumbing, head, holding tanks
- marine radio operation / protocol

I own an NC795, but doesn't have to be specific to this boat.

Thanks, Tyson

Hi Tyson, for electrical I often refer to Pacific Yacht Systems. They cover just about every type of electrical on boats with great articles and videos. I have connected a number of times with Jeff Cote and he is a great guy who knows his stuff about electrical. 

Hope this helps.

Ron

[rene460]

Hi, Fishboat, welcome to the forum.  You will find lots of information in the archives here that will help when you have a specific issue, but just reading the interesting topics provides a lot of general background that will come back to you if you have the need.

For general books, well worth looking through the book rack at your local chandler.  They tend to have a selection of popular books in a corner somewhere.  I find that with two similar books, one will appeal and another not so much.  Trying to browse on line is just not the same.  Then reward the chandler by buying.  You will waste a lot less money that way.

Just what will appeal will depend much on your interest and background.  Your local library might also have a boating section that will allow you to browse and see what is available.

Then, don’t overlook the information that comes with your boat, particularly the schematics for wiring and piping systems, engine manual and manufacturers instructions for many of the standard bought in items.  Despite their deficiencies, they still contain a wealth of useful information.

Also, if you or your electrician make any changes to wiring or electrical systems, do mark up those schematics on a copy kept in the boat.

Even if you resort to the local marine electrician and motor mechanic, it is still worth making an effort to understand the systems.  It makes it easier to talk to the mechanic and you will better appreciate what has to be done.

rene460

[fishboat]

Thanks for all the helpful advice. Much appreciated!  Tyson

[sorci]

Boatowner’s Mechanical and Electrical Manual 4th Edition By Nigel Calder

Free PDF download available on the link below.....

www.technicalbookspdf.com/download/?file=3812

NOTE: don't click on the ads. Click on the small Download link near the lower part of the page.

[ihsan]

      Sorci, thanks a lot for providing the link for the manuel. Downloaded without problem. Happy cruises.