Part 4 - Still on the Learning curve

I didn't expect to feel trepidation or a sense of anxiety when we decided to take the leap of faith, but I did. We had sailed on hire boats but there was never the need to worry about one of the vital components of the boat. That is the engine. It was someone else's, namely, the hire company.

Now it was mine and I knew nothing about engines but I realised I would have to do something about my ignorance. The engine provides propulsion but also importantly it charges up ones batteries for much needed electricity. Plus they need servicing on a regular basis if you want to preserve their life span and reduce wear and tear.

I was looking on line in relation to boat maintenance before we set off and came across a weekend course run by the RCR (river canal rescue). so I booked to attend it in mid July 2016. £120 and was it worth it. Most certainly. It was the best £120 I've spent in many a day. The course is some talk and then practical. Why was it worth it? Well I moved from total ignorance of engine maintenance to partial ignorance.

I came out with knowledge, intellectual and practical. for servicing the engine. for knowing things to look out for and when issues were arising. Brilliant!

Later on our journey we met a lovely couple who had started out on their time living on the canal. In conversation Andrew said that him and his wife had had their new boat serviced professionally before they embarked on their venture. The cost £300. My cost £120 for the course. £80 for the oil and filters. Total cost £100 less than they had paid. And I've saved money ever since and look after the longevity of my best friend- apart from Marian- Beta Marine 50.

Don't get me wrong I was anxious the first time I serviced the engine and in truth the second time (another story) but I am more competent now and grateful to Jay and Trevor at the RCR who guided me and instructed me on boat engine maintenance.

tbc