Helena Frye
Whether you're a new mariner or a lifetime veteran, *How Boat Things Work: An Illustrated Guide* by Charlie Wing is a resource you can't afford to be without. With intricate two-colour cutaway drawings of eighty different systems and devices, as well as detailed explanations of how they're assembled, how they work, and how they can go wrong, this book covers every primary component of your boat's inner workings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Author | Charlie Wing |
| Publisher | McGraw-Hill |
| Format | Hardback, Kindle |
| Illustrations | Clear-line, two-colour cutaway drawings |
| Number of illustrations | 80 |
| Topics covered | Engines, transmissions, bearings, stuffing boxes, propellers, steering systems, autopilots, windvanes, compasses, rigging, splicing, line handling, block and tackle, sail controls |
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What You'll Learn
- Engines, transmissions, bearings, stuffing boxes, propellers
- Steering systems, autopilots, windvanes, compasses
- Rigging, splicing, line handling, block and tackle, sail controls
- Boat systems you'd likely see aboard a 32-foot cruiser
- How boat parts are assembled, how they work, and how they can go wrong?
Engines, transmissions, bearings, stuffing boxes, propellers
Engines, transmissions, bearings, stuffing boxes, and propellers are all primary components of a boat's inner workings. Engines are the power source of the boat, and transmissions are what transfer that power to the propellers, which then push the boat through the water. Bearings are used to reduce friction between moving parts, and stuffing boxes are used to seal the propeller shaft and prevent water from entering the boat.
The book *How Boat Things Work: An Illustrated Guide* by Charlie Wing provides a detailed explanation of these components and how they work together to make a boat function. With intricate two-colour cutaway drawings of eighty different systems and devices, as well as step-by-step explanations of how they're assembled, how they work, and how they can malfunction, this book is an invaluable resource for both new and experienced mariners.
Captain Wing, who has a Ph.D. in oceanography from MIT, is a familiar name to those nautically-minded, as he is also the author of *Get Your Captain's License* and *The Boatowner's Illustrated Electrical Handbook*.
The book provides a comprehensive review of the boat systems you'd likely see aboard a 32-foot cruiser, including engines, transmissions, bearings, and more. With clear-line illustrations, this book makes it easy to understand the complex inner workings of a boat.
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Steering systems, autopilots, windvanes, compasses
Steering systems, autopilots, windvanes, and compasses are all essential components of a boat's navigation system.
Steering systems are used to control the direction of the boat. They typically consist of a wheel or a tiller that is connected to the boat's rudder. By turning the wheel or tiller, the rudder is moved, which changes the direction of the boat.
Autopilots are automated steering systems that use a combination of sensors, actuators, and control algorithms to maintain a desired course. They can be programmed to follow a specific route or to maintain a straight course, and are often used on long voyages or when the operator needs to take a break from manually steering the boat.
Windvanes are mechanical devices that use the wind to assist in steering the boat. They are typically used on sailboats and work by sensing the direction of the wind and adjusting the boat's rudder accordingly to maintain the desired course.
Compasses are magnetic devices that indicate the direction of north, allowing the operator to navigate the boat by maintaining a desired heading. They are typically mounted in a fixed position on the boat's dashboard or console and are used in conjunction with nautical charts to determine the boat's position and plan a course.
Together, these systems work in harmony to ensure the boat can be steered and maintained on course, with the option of manual or automated steering depending on the situation and the operator's preferences.
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Rigging, splicing, line handling, block and tackle, sail controls
Rigging, splicing, line handling, block and tackle, and sail controls are all essential aspects of sailing and boating. Rigging refers to the system of ropes, wires, and chains that support a boat's mast and sails. Splicing is the process of joining two ropes together by weaving their strands together. Line handling involves managing the ropes used to control the sails and other boat systems. Block and tackle is a system of pulleys and ropes that allows sailors to lift heavy loads or apply force to move objects. Sail controls are the mechanisms used to adjust the sails, including the sheets, halyards, and winches.
Rigging is a critical aspect of sailing as it provides the structure and support for the sails. It involves a complex network of ropes, wires, and chains that attach to the mast, spreaders, and sails. Rigging must be strong and durable to withstand the forces of wind and waves. Splicing is an essential skill for sailors, as it allows them to repair or join ropes without losing strength or flexibility. There are various types of splices, including eye splices, short splices, and long splices, each with its own specific technique and application.
Line handling is the art of managing the ropes, or lines, used to control the sails and other boat systems. It requires skill and coordination to ensure that lines are handled efficiently and safely. Lines can be used to raise and lower sails, adjust their trim, or secure the boat to a dock. Block and tackle is a simple machine that uses pulleys and ropes to create a mechanical advantage. It allows sailors to lift heavy loads, such as anchors or sails, with less force than would be required without the system. Block and tackle systems can also be used to apply force in a horizontal direction, such as when tightening a line or pulling an object towards the boat.
Sail controls are the mechanisms used to adjust the sails and control the boat's speed and direction. They include sheets, which are the ropes used to trim the sails; halyards, which are used to raise and lower the sails; and winches, which provide mechanical advantage for trimming and tightening lines. Sail controls must be adjusted constantly in response to changing wind conditions and the desired course of the boat. Understanding rigging, splicing, line handling, block and tackle, and sail controls is crucial for safe and effective sailing. These systems work together to harness the power of the wind and allow sailors to navigate their boats with precision and control.
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Boat systems you'd likely see aboard a 32-foot cruiser
Charlie Wing's *How Boat Things Work: An Illustrated Guide* is a useful resource for anyone looking to understand the systems aboard a 32-foot cruiser. The book features intricate two-colour cutaway drawings of eighty different systems and devices, as well as detailed explanations of how they are assembled, how they work, and how they can go wrong.
The book covers a range of boat systems, including engines, transmissions, bearings, stuffing boxes, and propellers. It also includes information on steering systems, autopilots, windvanes, and compasses. For those interested in rigging, the book offers guidance on splicing, line handling, block and tackle, and sail controls.
Wing, who has a Ph.D. in oceanography from MIT, is also the author of *Get Your Captain's License* and *The Boatowner's Illustrated Electrical Handbook*. His illustrated guide is praised for its clear and simple drawings, making it a perfect teaching tool for new mariners and veterans alike.
With its detailed explanations and visual aids, *How Boat Things Work: An Illustrated Guide* is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand the systems and devices that make a boat tick.
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How boat parts are assembled, how they work, and how they can go wrong
Charlie Wing's *How Boat Things Work: An Illustrated Guide* is a resource that covers every primary component of a boat's inner workings. With intricate two-colour cutaway drawings of eighty different systems and devices, as well as detailed explanations of how they're assembled, how they work, and how they can go wrong, this book is a useful tool for both new mariners and lifetime veterans.
The book includes a guided tour "under the hood" of your sailboat or powerboat, with detailed explanations of the following:
- Engines, transmissions, bearings, stuffing boxes, and propellers
- Steering systems, autopilots, windvanes, and compasses
- Rigging, splicing, line handling, block and tackle, and sail controls
Captain Wing, who is also the author of *Get Your Captain's License* and *The Boatowner's Illustrated Electrical Handbook*, reviews boat systems that you'd likely see aboard your 32'-class cruiser.
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Frequently asked questions
This book covers every primary component of your boat's inner workings, including engines, transmissions, bearings, stuffing boxes, propellers, steering systems, autopilots, windvanes, compasses, rigging, splicing, line handling, block and tackle, and sail controls.
This book is for anyone who is interested in boats, whether you're a new mariner or a lifetime veteran.
This book uses clear-line illustrations rather than photographs, which makes small and enclosed parts easier to see and understand.
Charlie Wing has written several other boating titles, including "Get Your Captain's License" and "The Boatowner's Illustrated Electrical Handbook". He has also written several top-selling home maintenance and remodeling books.
This book is available in paperback and eBook formats.
