Search results

Thanks for the feedback, although our infrequent use (so far) means for us the C/B ratio (Easy Start / fuel cost) isn't positive. Our unit is the low-profile 12v meant for R/Vs, but it's worked fine on the CD. Are there any other benefits? Does the Easy Start prolong the life of the A/C unit?

Thanks for this post -- I wasn't sure if the Easy Start made sense for us as the Dometic A/C unit runs off the Yamaha EF2200 Generator (18.3 amps @ 120V)

Our CD22 came with a Dometic a/c unit installed. We’ve used it twice in two seasons. It works, it’s just the whole point of boating for us is to be outdoors. That said, it’s going to be very useful for overnight trips when we (eventually) sleep aboard.

Welcome! We’re fairly new CD22 owners and have had two enjoyable seasons on the upper Chesapeake Bay with two week-long trips to the St Lawrence River. It’s a great vessel — economical, sturdy, seaworthy, and just looks cool. :-)

I’m encouraged to hear the single 100w panel provided sufficient charge to sustain the refrigerator overnight. Except for anchor light, a small fan, and PED charging I wouldn’t expect much else to require power. I’m planning on testing the load once I put the batteries back on board.

I bought the same panel and the Renogy MPPT controller. I’m waiting on the inline fuse and extension cable to connect and test the setup in the basement (we have a large window that lets in a bit of sunlight on a sunny day) before installing it on the boat.

Looks really good! I like your dockline holders!

Right -- I thought I mentioned I plan to install a more accurate Battery monitor (I have the cheap power socket voltmeter but want more confidence than $12 part). I'll have to check on the fridge -- it's what came with the boat when we bought it and we haven't used it yet!

Thanks for the recommendation! I have a Fluke Multimeter I plan to use until I install something like this (and replace the $12 power socket voltmeter).

We used electrical power (battery only) at a very low draw (stereo, VHF, Garmin 942, iPad charger). I only ran the A/C with the generator. We still haven't used the frig -- we have a very good cooler that keeps ice overnight through very hot days (the key is to open it rarely! and pack it...

This has been a helpful discussion — thank you! I am sending the flexible panel back. Current plan Is to mount the single panel on the roof using vibration-dampening bolt-on feet secured with Velcro to the roof, with shock cord running to each grab rail and to the radar arch. I don’t intend...

Very interesting and now that you say that, the family resemblance is clear! Our daughter and granddaughters lived with us for nearly a year in 2021 and the little ones looked forward to watching the Fleming videos (especially when seals, birds, or bears were spotted!). I appreciated the...

Awesome pictures and story! The Fleming is the only boat I’d consider as a replacement for our C-Dory!!

We enjoy watching the videos Tony Fleming makes about his adventures in his namesake yachts. One released today is set in Alaska: https://youtu.be/_bKqyJZHvP0 Fast forward to 1:42 to see a C-Dory at the dock in Auk (Sp?) harbor.

So true! What voltage did you expect to see and at what point did you starup the engines or generator? I’ve read all sorts of proclamations that this voltage means the battery is being overcharged, that voltage means the battery is 75% discharged… Is there w widely accepted and demonstrated rule?

Very helpful link — thank you! I’m leaning towards returning the flex panel and keeping the 100w regular size panel. I have rotor rails so I think the best option will be running the panel across the roof suspended on supports that are mounted to the grab rail. I can put some cutout PVC blocks...

This is helpful, thanks! The flexible panel certainly does not feel as substantial, but would the rigid frame be more or less subject to damage from bouncing across the waves?

I just received a set of Renogy 100w solar panels — 1 rigid frame, 1 flexible (order mistake. — one will go back). But now that I have the flexible panel I am considering keeping it and mounting it on the roof with industrial strength Velcro. That way I can remove it for transport or whenever...

Thanks for the excellent advice! The idea of a shorter shakedown cruise before tackling this longer adventure makes sense.