Current Affairs

Down on the tow path, spring sunshine burns off the chill of an overnight fog.

Ghost ships study their reflections in the still river, as I walk toward the boatyard. Past Chatham's Historic Naval Dockyard, where Nelson's flagship Victory was built.

The veil of fog is abruptly torn aside. I pause to remove my woolly hat and down jacket as the temperature soars.  A coaster, detectable moments earlier only as a disembodied hum of invisible machinery, is revealed over on the wharf. Behind her, the spire of Rochester Cathedral lances the skyline.

Boats are jockeying for position, alongside the quay, when I arrive at the yard. It is now a sun kissed day which would not disgrace summer. Coffee is being brewed, knots of be-smocked sea folk chat on deck and the heady aroma of anti-fouling paint hangs in the still air.

I have spent the week finding out how to resolve the compatibility issue between Stargazer's new engine and her existing battery management system. Many phone calls have been made. I have become immersed in an arcane world of electrical 'current affairs.' A world with a language of its own: alternator power curves, amps, volts, serpentine pulleys, external regulation and more.

A 150 amp, high output, externally regulated Balmar alternator has been ordered. If all goes well, this will be fitted with a 64.8mm 6pk serpentine pulley before being shipped to me for the end of next week. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Paul the electrician, uncontactable due to a half term holiday this week, will be able to fit the new alternator on its arrival. It should just 'plug and play' with both engine and battery management system.That is what the theory says!

Today, though, Stargazer is ready for her annual polish and anti foul. A remarkable spell of February weather like this is not to be squandered.

Mission accomplished. Here's hoping that the electrical recommissioning works go as smoothly!