Thruster TLC
Computer-brained joystick control systems are the rage for close-quarters docking, but many skippers handle their boats just fine using throttles and a bow thruster, controlled by the computer in their skulls. Add a stern thruster and a skilled boat handler can rule the world. But, like all things mechanical, thrusters need occasional TLC. Usually it’s little more than a wash and brush-up and a new anode for the upcoming season, but sometimes there’s a bit more to do. Whatever work your thruster needs, now’s the time to do it, whether you live way up north or way down south of the Mason-Dixon line.
If a picture is worth 1,000 words, how much is a video worth, given that it’s viewed at 30 frames a second? In keeping with this new math, the folks at Vetus have created a series of four short videos (on vetus.com) explaining how to maintain an electric thruster. Bob Walker, an applications engineer at the company, is the host/teacher.
Maintain the Voltage
I called Vetus and connected with Walker, a personable guy unfazed by his growing internet
