I called Marine Maintenance Wednesday evening and left a message. Jody, the owner called back that night and he and his service tech, Terry, were on board by 1000 hrs Thursday. Terry spent the day trouble shooting the issue (through computer diagnostics and re-creating the default). Two issues were discovered. One, there seems to be a computer malfunction with or to the starboard engine. Two, the engine’s pulley systems are nearing the end of their service life and should be replaced. This is evidenced by the accumulation of black belt dust around the belt guards and the noise (like a chirping sound) coming from the engines. Terry replaced one set of pulleys before calling it quits last night and the noise reduction was remarkable. The second set will be replaced today.

Regarding the computer malfunction, Terry thinks it’s caused by a lack of sufficient power to the on-board computers. This AM Terry tested the draw on the batteries when starting the engines and noticed voltage dropped to 9.6 volts from 12.5+ volts. Apparently, the minimum power requirement to run the computer is 10.5 volts. The consequence leads to computer malfunction. We’ll re-test the start draws but will likely lead to replacing the three starting batteries.

Fortunately, we had engine power and were able to motor over to the pump out station and pump out last night. We’re good for another week or so if we can’t move on. I am hopeful Terry will be able to conclude all work today. Our next weather window opens Tuesday and Wednesday with conditions equal to or better than yesterday’s forecast.

I keep remembering the word boat is really an acronym. It stands for: Break Out Another Thousand!

Glad we’re in port dealing with good people handling issues before they become serious problems.