July/August 2005 Volume 1, Issue 2
©2005 Tsunami Fishing Systems
 

Toy Boat 2 Scorecard

This is a log which chronicles the long-term performance of the various products installed on Toy Boat 2. Real life problems, real life solutions (mostly), plus alternatives tried...

These pages will updated as new things are installed or replaced, or as stuff happens to the boat. New or changed items from the previous month will be identified with  bold blue text .

As of July, 2005:
In service: July 2001 (48 months)

Hull/Storage/Anchoring | Propulsion/Steering | Electronics/Safety | Fishing/Boating Gear | Trailer

Equipment Topic Comments
Trailer
Pacific Trailers
Status: OK
In a nutshell: Pacific builds a tough, reliable product.
Other products tried: None
What's happened: Replaced the stock fenders with 9" wide fenders obtained from West Marine. This appears to have fixed the problem with brake dust goo being slung onto the boat.  More >>>
What's planned: Possible replacement of regular trailer lights with LED units
Trailer brakes
Fulton Sharksin electric + flushing kit

Status: OK, but...
In a nutshell: Surprisingly, the electrical connections have fared well. However the corrosion resistance of several of the internal mechanical components leaves something to be desired. Stopping power is sufficient, but not overwhelming.
Other products tried: None
What's happened: Right drum actually froze to the wheel, due to corrosion of internal mechanical parts. Due to setup of flushing hose, the right drum receives much less water pressure. Added a second flushig connection to get more pressure to the right drum.
What's planned: Keep an eye on the drums, may need to overhaul completely.
Brake controller
Carlisle Electrastar® electric controller

Status: OK
In a nutshell: The Carlisle controller works as advertised. The anodized aluminum housing has held up better than expected in salt water.
Other products tried: None
What's happened: Nothing
What's planned: Unit works fine, but we may reposition the battery and controller from the tongue onto the main trailer body.
Bearing protectors
Fulton Bearing Protectors

Status: OK
In a nutshell: Absolutely no problems.
Other products tried: None
What's happened: Nothing
What's planned: Nothing
Trailer Jack
Fulton Performance XP15L

Status: OK
In a nutshell: Looks good, but too early to tell....
Other products tried: None
What's happened: The original jack (Dutton-Lainson 6400A series) rusted out after 2.5 years. Not realizing they had a 3 year warranty, replaced it with a Fulton XP10. The XP10's pinion gear broke after 6 months (would have been covered under warranty, but lost the receipt); Replaced with the bigger XP15 jack (only one in stock at West Marine).
What's planned: Nothing.
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