Systems Analyst


s/v Ripple is a small boat; her moorage length is 30 feet, but that's because she has a 4 foot bowsprit, and owing to William Atkin's philosophy of design, her cabin is sized with careful attention to her overall proportions, not to the proportions of an RV.  

Managing the systems on this cozy cruiser requires understanding and study rather than passion.  Never mind the black arts of painting, varnishing, marlinspike seamanship, navigation, and (oh, yeah... ) sailing.  Mastering Ripple will require the skills and intuitions of a diesel mechanic and marine electrician.

Lacking the intuitions, I'll settle for knowledge and try to work my way into mere competence.  My primary ally in this quest has become Nigel Calder.  My brother recommended his book on marine diesels, and subsequently I found his books on boat systems and reading charts.  His writing is clear and his coverage of the topics is, to my unschooled eye, thorough. Throw in a Chapman's and you have an excellent nucleus for a small boat library.

Calder is going to increase my mobility.

Marine Diesel Engines: Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Repair
http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/73955312

Boatowner's Mechanical and Electrical Manual
http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/61701541

How to Read a Nautical Chart
http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/50478404
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Ripple's 12 volt panel (back side)

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