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  1. rclarke246

    Sticky Rubber Dashboard

    My problem wasn’t due to sunshine as I draw the curtains closed when not in use. Also, it’s a very uniform deterioration.
  2. rclarke246

    Sticky Rubber Dashboard

    It has many angles and levels so it looks like refinishing will be necessary. The problem is not from using the wrong cleaner, it's a defect of the coating. What kind of operation could "wrap" it with a new finish? Maybe a good painting operation? Thanks for all of your replies.
  3. rclarke246

    Sticky Rubber Dashboard

    I've only used a very light household spray. I've seen this happen a few other times, like on an old binocular casing. It's a natural deterioration that occurs on defective rubber coatings. Pretty sure Beneteau knew they had a problem which is why they replaced my upper dashboard.
  4. rclarke246

    Sticky Rubber Dashboard

    My 2012 ST44 has a rubber-based dashboard, supporting all of the switches, controls, MFD, etc..., at the lower station. The entire (similar) dashboard on the upper helm was replaced under warranty in 2014. I sure wish I'd have asked about the lower one back then! Anyway, the lower dashboard...
  5. rclarke246

    Lost Propeller!

    The diver saw no damage but I’ll have him double check. My insurance agent says the deductible is greater than the loss so I’d be better off not filing a claim. Was lucky to find a new set of props from a local guy who had the same boat. Currently making sure they’re balanced and getting...
  6. rclarke246

    It Starts Today

    Amen! When folks start barking instructions to me when in close quarters I DO NOT listen. You're doing things exactly right and learning how to get her where she needs to be. Congratulation!
  7. rclarke246

    Lost Propeller!

    My understanding is that there is a thin flange between the prop and the large brass nut. Once the nut is tight the two sides of the flange are bent / folded over flat sides of the nut. This keeps the nut tight. Again, whatever, the reinstall had to be faulty.
  8. rclarke246

    Lost Propeller!

    Yes, checked the port prop and found it a bit loose. Of course, secured it better. I really don't think there is a rational argument that the lost prop was properly reinstalled.
  9. rclarke246

    Lost Propeller!

    It's in about 15' of water in a marked channel.
  10. rclarke246

    Lost Propeller!

    Wow! This week I was maneuvering, killing time in deep water, waiting for the fuel dock to clear when I hear this very loud THUMP! Suddenly, I realize that the steering on by twin-screw boat is quite odd and quickly realize I have no starboard thrust. Got her fueled and headed back to home...
  11. rclarke246

    Disney World Boat Transportation

    Hello, I previously posted this on the recent thread about the Jungle Cruise boat taking on water, but thought that this may be a better place to post: We're regular visitors to WDW and here are a few observations regarding the operation of the launches that run between the Magic Kingdom and...
  12. rclarke246

    Sinking Disney tour boat

    Disney Launches We're regular visitors to WDW and here are a few observations regarding the operation of the launches that run between the Magic Kingdom and the 4-5 resort hotels on the big lake: 1) These open boats, carring about 50 passengers and are about 30'-40' in length. 2) They are in...
  13. rclarke246

    Depth Sounder

    Not sure, but anything will be better than seeing a depth when it’s too late to do anything about it.
  14. rclarke246

    Depth Sounder

    I'd love to have 2 reliable sounders, especially one with "look forward" capability.
  15. rclarke246

    Depth Sounder

    I was losing the bottom OFTEN, especially in less than 10', when I needed it the most! I decided to do what Beneteau did, starting with their 2014 or 2015 ST44's, I abandoned the original, blue, boat-shaped one, and replaced it with a Raymarine P79 hockey-puck sized beam-through-the hull style...
  16. rclarke246

    Sticky Rubber Dashboard

    Hello, My 2012 ST44 has a soft, Black/Grey rubber-like dashboard on the lower station. This raised-panel, to which all gauges and switched are attached, is deteriorating into what I call "sticky rubber", which attracts dust and dirt and is actually un-cleanable! Interestingly, our upper...
  17. rclarke246

    Rudder Seals on ST44

    Dallas, I had the brass kits installed 15 months ago which seem to be holding fine.
  18. rclarke246

    Log Book

    How, specifically, do you use your iPhone? Do you record data in "Notes" or somewhere else on the phone? Thanks!
  19. rclarke246

    Log Book

    I have the Weems & Plath but don’t actually follow their format and simply enter all info per event. Since I leave the book on the boat I take some good photos of each completed page, which I add to my “ST44” album. I can always refer to these cloud photos for reference purposes. Works for me...
  20. rclarke246

    Beneteau ST 44 potential sea water intrusion

    Update: No problem with new turbos (knocking on wood!!!) If good performance continues one (or combination) of reasons could be: 1) I never start the engines unless I'm going to full warm up and run hard at WOT 2) The updated design of my Volvo risers. 3) After each use, and just before...
  21. rclarke246

    Exhaust hose dropping down below muffler

    As the guy that had to replace his turbos and then risers with less than 100 hours, take it from me, get the belly out of that exhaust hose! Details can be found on: http://www.trawlerforum.com/forums/s60/beneteau-st-44-potential-sea-water-intrusion-35913.html and boatdiesel.com
  22. rclarke246

    Original boat name

    "Chicken-of-the Sea", from an episode of I love Lucy. Funny!
  23. rclarke246

    First Big Boat, First Big Step

    We went through the same stress, which DOES get less with every docking. The BEST tip I ever got from the "Coastie" who was training us, "In close quarters (ie: docking) you'll be in neutral 80-90% of the time". Yes, much like a space capsule, simply give short thrusts as needed and leave the...
  24. rclarke246

    New to me Beneteau 42 Swift

    Congratulations! If we had a re-do we'd buy the ST44 again. Great value, comfortable boat.
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