How We Fixed Leaking Portlights: Sika vs Butyl
Boat projects always start the same way:"This will be quick."Reader, it was not quick.After noticing aging seals and the early signs of leaks on SV Tatooine (Ovni 435), I decided…
Belt drive challenges and solution with a powerful alternator on a boat engine
When I decided to install a Balmar XT-250 alternator on my boat engine, it was primarily to efficiently charge the 11kWh LiFePo battery bank. The alternator is regulated by a…
folded table
A Great Table for Your Dinners on Deck: The Convenient Solution for Boat Life
Hey there, fellow boat enthusiasts! 👋On the OVNI 435, there was no original table outside—or at least not one I could figure out. I later learned that the wooden panel…
remove centerboard
How to Remove and Reinstall the Ovni 435 Centerboard (DIY Guide)
Working on the centerboard of an aluminum lifting-keel boat is one of those jobs that looks absolutely terrifying… right up until you take a deep breath, make coffee, and break…
lift engine on a boat
How We Moved Our Boat’s Engine into the Cabin for Easier Maintenance 🛠️
Hey there, fellow boat enthusiasts! When we discovered the need to replace the crankshaft seal on our beloved Tatooine (Ovni 435), the challenge was clear: the engine had to come…
drain nozzle idea
Efficiently Draining Bilge and Shower Water on a Boat
Sick of Standing Water in the Shower? I Was Too, Until I Found the Perfect Solution! 🚿 Hey there, fellow boat enthusiasts! 👋Today, I want to share a little annoyance…
Old Mount
Cooling Challenges with a High-Powered Alternator on a Boat Engine
When it comes to life on the water, one of the most crucial aspects is ensuring a reliable power source for all your onboard needs. Whether you're out for a…
drawer fridge
Upgrading a Toploader Fridge to a Drawer Fridge: A Step-by-Step Guide for Boat Owners (from experience on my Alubat Ovni 435)⛵🪚
Having a functional and space-efficient refrigerator is essential, especially in the limited confines of a boat. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of upgrading a…
depth sonder
Garmin chartplotter in a NKE system
When I bought the boat, it did not have a chartplotter, so I decided to purchase a Garmin chartplotter. At the time, NKE did not offer a chartplotter as part…
Installing a Balmar Alternator and Wakespeed Regulator on My Aluminum Boat to Charge LiFePO4 Batteries 😊⛵
In this blog post, we will explore the process of installing a Balmar alternator and Wakespeed regulator to charge your LifePO4 batteries. If you have already installed your LifePO4 (Lithium…