I'm starting to become used to the surprises i step off into.
Today i changed the oil and filters in all the machines. Tohatsu 6hp outboard engine, 6kw Northern Lights Generator, 62hp Perkins engine. I started with the smallest and worked my way up, building confidence as i went... i got out my manual on the outboard and read up on 'how to change the oil.' (there's even info on "when" and how much oil needed) i only had to call 1 lifeline. (thanks Rod) Now that i think about it, i didnt change the filter. Is there a filter on there Rod? It took about a quart of oil.
The Northern Lights Generator has a lot more instructions written down... like, 'first oil change on a new machine is at 50 hrs. Then next change at 100 hrs. 250hrs after that.' (i was at 68 hours) Good thing i changed this. And the filter! It took almost a gallon of oil.
The Perkins surprised me. i started pumping out oil and it just kept coming. It filled my canister and almost ran over into the hallway. Fortunately i was watching it like a hawk and stopped it. BUT i planned for 2 gallons of oil.... (i hear you Rod - 'read the book.') So i found the book. the perkins takes 15 quarts. Almost 4 gallons of oil. i had just two.. . So lower the dingy, attach the outboard, throw in your bike and go to shore. ride to the store and buy more gallons of oil. return. This 'going' took more time than all the other work combined. I also got a BIG workout lifting and toting. i bought 3 gallons of oil. The trick was figuring how to lower the outboard onto the dingy. At first i stood in the dingy and tried to lift the outboard, but it just pushed the boat down. i coudn't get it to lift off the rail. Finally i climbed back up onto the sailboat and lowered the outboard via a rope. i can just lift and tote the bike. It's awkward but not heavy.
It's almost 9pm and i'm tired and sore. I'm not used to all that lifting and climbing, or wrench turning or bike riding. right now i'm inside the salon with the generator humming along, making water and both AC's running. i had a MASSIVE dinner at Boshamps. (Angela, i had another dozen oysters. Feta cheese, caramelized onions and bacon! what's not to love.) Also, notice also the side dishes.... (see menu: squash, grits, greens, beans.) When i got back to the boat i cut up a watermelon. so i guess i'm not roughing it tonight!
I hope your melon is sweet and your AC is cold wherever you are. - Capn Skip
