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		<title><![CDATA[ForumTotal.com - Boating, Sailing & Marine Equipment Forum]]></title>
		<link>https://forumtotal.com/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[ForumTotal.com - https://forumtotal.com]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:48:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<generator>MyBB</generator>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Should I install a windlass on my 28-foot sailboat or look for options?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-install-a-windlass-on-my-28-foot-sailboat-or-look-for-options</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:02:37 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=756">Savannah_H</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-install-a-windlass-on-my-28-foot-sailboat-or-look-for-options</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should install a manual windlass on my 28-foot sailboat. My shoulder just can’t handle hauling the anchor and chain by hand anymore, but I’m worried about the deck reinforcement and the added clutter on the foredeck.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should install a manual windlass on my 28-foot sailboat. My shoulder just can’t handle hauling the anchor and chain by hand anymore, but I’m worried about the deck reinforcement and the added clutter on the foredeck.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[What’s the best way to tell if a VHF antenna is causing poor radio range?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/what%E2%80%99s-the-best-way-to-tell-if-a-vhf-antenna-is-causing-poor-radio-range</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:05:09 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=1640">Mark78</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/what%E2%80%99s-the-best-way-to-tell-if-a-vhf-antenna-is-causing-poor-radio-range</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to figure out if my old VHF antenna is the reason my radio’s range has gotten so poor, or if the issue is with the radio itself or the cabling. I checked the connections at the back of the unit and they seem solid, but I don’t have a spare antenna to swap in for testing.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to figure out if my old VHF antenna is the reason my radio’s range has gotten so poor, or if the issue is with the radio itself or the cabling. I checked the connections at the back of the unit and they seem solid, but I don’t have a spare antenna to swap in for testing.]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[What could be causing a diesel smell in the bilge with no visible leaks?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/what-could-be-causing-a-diesel-smell-in-the-bilge-with-no-visible-leaks</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:36:50 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=2254">Zoey65</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/what-could-be-causing-a-diesel-smell-in-the-bilge-with-no-visible-leaks</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’ve been noticing a faint but persistent smell of diesel fuel in my bilge lately, even though I can’t find any visible leaks around the tank or fuel lines. It’s got me a bit concerned about where it might be coming from and what I should be checking next.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’ve been noticing a faint but persistent smell of diesel fuel in my bilge lately, even though I can’t find any visible leaks around the tank or fuel lines. It’s got me a bit concerned about where it might be coming from and what I should be checking next.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Should I replace a flexible water bladder with a rigid tank on my sailboat?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-replace-a-flexible-water-bladder-with-a-rigid-tank-on-my-sailboat</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:27:14 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=1565">Addison85</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-replace-a-flexible-water-bladder-with-a-rigid-tank-on-my-sailboat</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should replace the original 12-gallon flexible water tank in my 28-foot sailboat with a rigid one. The old bladder is starting to smell a bit funky no matter how much I clean it, and I’m worried a small tear could leave me without fresh water on a longer cruise.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should replace the original 12-gallon flexible water tank in my 28-foot sailboat with a rigid one. The old bladder is starting to smell a bit funky no matter how much I clean it, and I’m worried a small tear could leave me without fresh water on a longer cruise.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Should i replace my VHF radio with DSC for coastal cruising or keep the old one?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-replace-my-vhf-radio-with-dsc-for-coastal-cruising-or-keep-the-old-one</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:58:58 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=652">Edward.H</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-replace-my-vhf-radio-with-dsc-for-coastal-cruising-or-keep-the-old-one</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should replace my old VHF radio with a newer model that has DSC, or if keeping the old one is fine for coastal cruising. My main concern is whether the digital calling feature is something I’d actually use, or if it’s just an extra complexity.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should replace my old VHF radio with a newer model that has DSC, or if keeping the old one is fine for coastal cruising. My main concern is whether the digital calling feature is something I’d actually use, or if it’s just an extra complexity.]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Should i install a vhf ais radio for foggy coastal cruising safety?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-install-a-vhf-ais-radio-for-foggy-coastal-cruising-safety</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:30:44 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=1186">Adam69</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-install-a-vhf-ais-radio-for-foggy-coastal-cruising-safety</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if it’s worth installing a new VHF radio with AIS receive on my 24-foot coastal cruiser. I mostly do day trips in familiar waters, but I’ve had a couple of close calls with fast-moving commercial traffic in the fog where seeing their name and course would have been a huge relief.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if it’s worth installing a new VHF radio with AIS receive on my 24-foot coastal cruiser. I mostly do day trips in familiar waters, but I’ve had a couple of close calls with fast-moving commercial traffic in the fog where seeing their name and course would have been a huge relief.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[What should i check if the bilge pump float switch sticks?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/what-should-i-check-if-the-bilge-pump-float-switch-sticks</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:01:33 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=2098">Noah95</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/what-should-i-check-if-the-bilge-pump-float-switch-sticks</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I was checking the bilge on my old Cobalt and noticed the float switch for the automatic bilge pump seems to be sticking sometimes. I'm just not sure if a failed switch would let the pump run dry and burn out, or if it just won't trigger when it should.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I was checking the bilge on my old Cobalt and noticed the float switch for the automatic bilge pump seems to be sticking sometimes. I'm just not sure if a failed switch would let the pump run dry and burn out, or if it just won't trigger when it should.]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[What does oily bilge water near the shaft seal mean on my cruiser?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/what-does-oily-bilge-water-near-the-shaft-seal-mean-on-my-cruiser</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:32:53 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=1953">Kenneth_A</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/what-does-oily-bilge-water-near-the-shaft-seal-mean-on-my-cruiser</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I was checking the bilge on my 28-foot cruiser and found a small puddle of what looks like oily water near the shaft seal. It’s not a steady drip, just this greasy residue after a weekend out. I’m trying to figure out if this is just normal weep from the packing gland or if it’s a sign the stern tube needs attention.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I was checking the bilge on my 28-foot cruiser and found a small puddle of what looks like oily water near the shaft seal. It’s not a steady drip, just this greasy residue after a weekend out. I’m trying to figure out if this is just normal weep from the packing gland or if it’s a sign the stern tube needs attention.]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Should I install a fixed VHF radio or keep handheld for longer coastal trips?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-install-a-fixed-vhf-radio-or-keep-handheld-for-longer-coastal-trips</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:04:51 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=1721">Steven_M</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-install-a-fixed-vhf-radio-or-keep-handheld-for-longer-coastal-trips</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should install a new VHF radio on my 24-foot center console or just rely on my handheld unit. The handheld has been fine for inshore stuff, but I’m starting to do longer runs along the coast and I’m wondering if the fixed mount’s better antenna and power is worth the cost and installation hassle.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should install a new VHF radio on my 24-foot center console or just rely on my handheld unit. The handheld has been fine for inshore stuff, but I’m starting to do longer runs along the coast and I’m wondering if the fixed mount’s better antenna and power is worth the cost and installation hassle.]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[How can I lash inflatable dinghy to the foredeck for a passage without chafe?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/how-can-i-lash-inflatable-dinghy-to-the-foredeck-for-a-passage-without-chafe</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:35:23 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=986">Nora.W</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/how-can-i-lash-inflatable-dinghy-to-the-foredeck-for-a-passage-without-chafe</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to figure out the best way to secure my inflatable dinghy on the foredeck of my 32-foot sailboat for a coastal passage. I’ve got it deflated and folded, but I’m not totally confident in my lashing method with just the standard deck cleats, worrying about chafe or a wave catching it.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to figure out the best way to secure my inflatable dinghy on the foredeck of my 32-foot sailboat for a coastal passage. I’ve got it deflated and folded, but I’m not totally confident in my lashing method with just the standard deck cleats, worrying about chafe or a wave catching it.]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Should i mount a transducer for side-scan on my boat with hull curvature?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-mount-a-transducer-for-side-scan-on-my-boat-with-hull-curvature</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 19:07:20 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=1784">Gary_A</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-mount-a-transducer-for-side-scan-on-my-boat-with-hull-curvature</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if it’s worth installing a new transducer for side-scan on my older fiberglass fishing boat. The unit itself is compatible, but I’m worried the hull’s curvature near the planned mounting spot might cause signal issues or create turbulent water flow.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if it’s worth installing a new transducer for side-scan on my older fiberglass fishing boat. The unit itself is compatible, but I’m worried the hull’s curvature near the planned mounting spot might cause signal issues or create turbulent water flow.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[How can i mount chartplotter on a curved fiberglass console with backing plate?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/how-can-i-mount-chartplotter-on-a-curved-fiberglass-console-with-backing-plate</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:38:43 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=1837">WilliamGM</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/how-can-i-mount-chartplotter-on-a-curved-fiberglass-console-with-backing-plate</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I'm trying to figure out the best way to secure my new chartplotter on the console of my center console. The mounting surface is slightly curved and I'm worried the standard bracket won't get a solid grip, especially when we're pounding through chop. I've heard about using a backing plate for a more permanent installation, but I'm hesitant to start drilling into the fiberglass.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I'm trying to figure out the best way to secure my new chartplotter on the console of my center console. The mounting surface is slightly curved and I'm worried the standard bracket won't get a solid grip, especially when we're pounding through chop. I've heard about using a backing plate for a more permanent installation, but I'm hesitant to start drilling into the fiberglass.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Should i add a second bilge pump to my 24-foot center console?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-add-a-second-bilge-pump-to-my-24-foot-center-console--3101</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:09:02 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=443">Evelyn.M</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-add-a-second-bilge-pump-to-my-24-foot-center-console--3101</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if it’s worth adding a second bilge pump to my 24-foot center console. The factory one handled last season’s rain just fine, but after taking on a bit more spray than expected in a choppy inlet this spring, I’m wondering if that backup capacity is something I should install now.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if it’s worth adding a second bilge pump to my 24-foot center console. The factory one handled last season’s rain just fine, but after taking on a bit more spray than expected in a choppy inlet this spring, I’m wondering if that backup capacity is something I should install now.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[How serious is a hairline crack in the transom knee on my aluminum skiff?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/how-serious-is-a-hairline-crack-in-the-transom-knee-on-my-aluminum-skiff</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:39:16 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=2253">JerryL</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/how-serious-is-a-hairline-crack-in-the-transom-knee-on-my-aluminum-skiff</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I was tightening the bolts on my outboard’s mounting bracket last weekend and noticed one of the transom knees has developed a very fine hairline crack. The boat’s a 17-foot aluminum fishing skiff, so it gets worked pretty hard. I’m worried this could be a sign of deeper stress, but I’m not sure if it’s something I should try to weld myself or if it means the whole transom structure needs a professional look.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I was tightening the bolts on my outboard’s mounting bracket last weekend and noticed one of the transom knees has developed a very fine hairline crack. The boat’s a 17-foot aluminum fishing skiff, so it gets worked pretty hard. I’m worried this could be a sign of deeper stress, but I’m not sure if it’s something I should try to weld myself or if it means the whole transom structure needs a professional look.]]></content:encoded>
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			<title><![CDATA[Should I replace my manual windlass with a vertical unit for coastal cruising?]]></title>
			<link>https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-replace-my-manual-windlass-with-a-vertical-unit-for-coastal-cruising</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:22:10 +0000</pubDate>
			<dc:creator><![CDATA[<a href="https://forumtotal.com/member.php?action=profile&uid=974">Madison_W</a>]]></dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://forumtotal.com/thread/should-i-replace-my-manual-windlass-with-a-vertical-unit-for-coastal-cruising</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should replace the old manual windlass on my 32-foot sailboat with a new vertical unit. My current one is getting really stiff and I’m worried it might fail next season, but I’m not sure if the cost and installation hassle is worth it for the amount of coastal cruising I do.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I’m trying to decide if I should replace the old manual windlass on my 32-foot sailboat with a new vertical unit. My current one is getting really stiff and I’m worried it might fail next season, but I’m not sure if the cost and installation hassle is worth it for the amount of coastal cruising I do.]]></content:encoded>
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