Thank you all for the concern about checking the oil while the engine is running, we still have all ten fingers (and toes). We thought we had read in the manual that the correct oil level was when the engine was warm, clearly we took a shortcut here, never to do it again. Continue to enjoy the video, and if you've read this, feel free to spare us the additional comments about checking the oil. We've been reprimanded :)
Innocent mistake guys, my guess is you were reading something to do with checking transmission fluid.. that is one you do while it is running at least in vehicles. I also just want to say kudos for owning the mistake, takes a lot to do it sometimes.
Not a reprimand. When the engine is running oil is being pumped around the block so theres less in the sump. So the dipstick under reads, and you will end up overfilling. Best to let it settle for 15 mins after shut off for the oil to drain back to the sump before checking, or do it from cold before starting. Loving the vids.
We love the videos guys, I know comments / the written word sounds much more harsh than when it is spoken, so please don’t take it as a reprimand just a concern for your safety,
Andy Pag also when the oil is too high in the sump the crank ends up hitting the oil which can lead basically whipping the oil in the oil pan or aerating the oil, leading to low oil pressure or not enough oil running through the engine, really bad for an engine,
Sailing Soulianis I didn’t mean to sound like I was beating u up.....I was a machinist, ole fella who had all his fingers screamed at me all the time about wearing long sleeves or gloves anywhere near any of those machines.........really really like your vids, u guys have a cool vibe, just didn’t want to see u get injured, sorry about my tone
Y'all picked the right time of year to go through the ditch. A little earlier in the year and the skeeters might have picked one of you up and dropped you in the swamp.
You picked the right time of year to make your journey to the Gulf. In warmer times you might have enjoyed not having to wear gloves and coats, but you’d have had to endure the bugs. Better off doing it that way you did. Far less traffic too!
I know this is a very late addition, but I just joined the party. When I was, or put to sea more accurately, it wasn't to relax. It was to see the world. Thanks for letting this ole sub sailor tag along.
I love the alcohol burner under the oil pan! That's similar to the old trick we used in the UP of Michigan before synthetic oil. We kept a small, round BBQ grill (with legs removed) to slide under the engine to preheat. (Westerbeke 40 and river current...My CD27's 8 HP Yanmar doesn't stand a chance LOL)
My favorite part of this entire video was looking into that clear, blue water and watching the dolphins riding your bow wave... ;-) haha It's been such a long trip and during each episode, I think to myself, "If only I could loan them the 200hp outboard off my boat..." Can't wait to see the two of you not needing winter coats! Cheers!! ~Freezing in Kansas
Great trip so far, been enjoying it so much. I even back-tracked to get it from the beginning. Glad someone (seems like almost everyone :-) ) expressed love and concern. Stay safe. Or maybe more appropriately, keep moving safe.
After the first couple videos I thought, these two are naive and getting in over their heads. But, as the journey progresses you come into your own and learn and grow in a way that is totally wonderful to witness. I’m so excited to be along for your adventures. I appreciate that you keep it real.
Hi L and K! Thanks so much for your stuff! I have made your trip many times over the years; and it brought back lovely memories to see your re-creation. I thought Westerbeck had a glow plug kit.??? Anyway; my main concern is for your safety. When you introduced an open flame into the engine compartment, you made all five hairs on my almost completely bald head stand on end!! I am too old for such excitement! Again; thanks for all your stuff! You guys are a treasure!
I love how you guys have the drone footage, makes the content that much better. Would love to experience traveling on the water in a sailboat as you two are. So beautiful.
Homeeee home on the boat. Where the fish and the turtles swim. You have been taking us on a trip of a life time. All it cost us was time to watch your videos. Thanks
It's fun to watch you guys, we did the same thing 10 years ago down the ICW in November/December, we froze, but it was fun, we had some of the same issues, and eventually it got warm, so keep going and enjoy every day!
Great to see you guys again... you have very nice taste in glass wear too... Yeah the arm past the running engine belt. OMG... Not only will you get engine stuff on the sleeve, but your arm can get ripped off. you don't look like you'd make a good amputee... Some injector pumps have a button on the side for cold starting. Pressed in is feeding a decent squirt into the lines and it released when the engine fires up. Ford diesels have that... Antway, What a lovely life this boat lifestyle is. Good on you for having the courage to let go...
Once again your ability to capture the beauty along the shore is amazing! Love the drone shots over the tows as well. Glad you’re back. I look forward to the next installment .
Another brilliant episode, really enjoying your sojourn through all the fall colours, definitely better than everyone elses boring trips down the ICW, cheers 👍👍🇦🇺
As a Canadian I sympathize with the cold engine problem. An alternative solution that works for me is a bunch of reusable hot packs or hand warmers. You push the clicker to have them heat up and then pack them around the engine block. To regenerate them you just boil them in water and they are good to go for the next morning. Love your channel.
A beautiful video thank you so quiet and serene , but will be good to get the sails up , you are a lovely couple , look forward to more great scenery , well done
Arguably one of the best sailing channels. I thoroughly enjoy your video quality and time not spent with long monologues explaining the mundane, just sticking to the topic. Keep up the great work you two, people like you are my inspiration to begin sailing, thanks is not a strong enough word!
Another beautiful video, thank you. One of my fondest memories was sitting out in the boat at night and identifying all the various Owl calls, in this case yours was a Bard Owl. Looking forward to you continued adventures.
Absolutely love this part of your trip, and its great to see footage of a segment of the river that most of us will never get to, during a time of year that few get to see. You two are doing so great, improvising and learning and having the experience of a lifetime! Its worth re-iterating the comments below about hands and hair anywhere near those engine belts. The accident will happen before you even have a chance to react, and will end up being the worst day of your life. While I'll miss seeing your view of the river, the open water will undoubtedly bring a new set of wild adventures!
So close...it's been really neat to watch how you guys traverse the river to the ocean. Fortunately I have Lake Meade to use and learn on before making a boat purchase somewhere not landlocked to sail the seas.
I've been looking forward to each one of your great videos. Looks like a lot of work and planning but hey, better than 9:00 to 5:00. You only live once and I like how you guys are making the most of it. Can't wait for you to reach the sea and go on to exotic places. So much to look forward to and what a wonderful learning experience along the way. You just can't put a price on freedom, thank god we live in the greatest country in the world where a nice couple of sailing nomads can live and roam free. Please keep those videos coming.
You may not be getting lots of R and R but I sure am by watching SS! Your camera skills and music choices are always perfect. Thank You for another relaxing coffee break for me!
Video had a great feel, i really liked the touch with the soulful talk in the cockpit about how busy it has been. Seemed real rather than manufactured excitement like others. I think it is what is driving Lavagabonds channel too. People wishing to be on your part are looking for relaxation from life and not high energy.
Oh and when you check the.... Just kidding :) I think it's great you are doing what you are doing. i am guessing in the rest of your travels, say you are on the hook in the Cook Islands, someone says, what's your home port and you say {actually, i am not sure what you'll say, so pardon my guessing...} Chicago, and you see that quizzical look on their faces, you can chuckle to yourself. Know that you are right now doing something very unique. thank you very very much for sharing it with us. most of us (at least at the moment) can't do what you are doing, and yet our lives are richer for getting the chance to see it through your eyes. And, personally, your channel is my favorite and pretty much my only sailing/boating channel. Thanks again!
Of the 10 or so sailing channels that I subscribe to, you have the best video images, by far. The picture composure, and the quality are both supurb so thanks for taking the time to be so proficient. We are enjoying your journey even though we are sitting in front of a computer screen and you are out there living life.
Your engine essentially needs a bit of warm(er) air in it's intake to get started. One trick could be to have a length of metal pipe perhaps 2-3 feet long which you could temporarily connect or hand-hold to the engine air intake while you heat the pipe with your alcohol puck. 5 minutes of heating should be plenty. Your preheater does this as well but also removes part of the oxygen needed for combustion...My trick is cheap, safe and works every time..hope this helps you one day! Cheers!
These are really nice videos. I love that part of the country (Great Lakes, Mississippi River, etc.). But as I watch I realize that being on a boat for months on end certainly can be great fun, but it is also hot/cold, cramped, slow, often tedious (like the locks) and needs constant maintenance. It's not my kind of fun, but it's fun to watch.
Spanish Moss is the correct answer as to what was hanging in the trees. The year 1955 was the first time I meet my grandparents in South Louisiana. The bed that my sister and I slept in was a large (gigantic to us) sewn heavy material case filled with Spanish Moss. My grandfather would take it outside about 3 or 4 times a year to air it out until the Spanish Moss needed changing. A Cajun mattress long before what is used today. Enjoying your videos.
I have figured that you two have been long gone from the Mobile, AL area, too bad. I would have loved to buy you dinner here in the Orange Beach, AL area. If you head back this way going home please contact me. I'll get you on the return trip.
Its kind of cool you were coming through my state (Alabama) on this one. Said it before and I'll say it again...best filming/editing of any YT Sailing channel.
Having operated a truck-tractor for 30 years, I found that it was beneficial to diesel engines to keep fuel conditioner in tanks. It helps with cold weather starts and helps prevent algae build-up.Also, a small amount of #1 diesel helps.
The idea of putting the alcohol burner with a pan on top in the engine compartment is freakin' genius! A few seasoned mechanics might try a torch or maybe an alcohol burner alone, which is dangerous, but the pan is what makes it reasonable, reliable, safer, and freakin' genius!
My first time watching......magnificent footage! The river is a whole world I know nothing about. Most of my favorite times with my sailboat were just sitting on a mooring or anchor. You need a lot of attention to run any boat safely and efficiently......I love the mooring! DD
I must say. I'm new to your channel, but your video, editing, style, and choice of music make your adventures very pleasurable to watch. I'm quickly becoming a fan, and you haven't even reached the south yet! Keep up the great work!
Good Saturday morning! Gotta love the rivers in the morning, the stillness and the fog and the colors in the trees are heavenly. Enjoying your travels!
Great videos as always and an amazing voyage you are on. Its really cool.to see the changes in the trees (getting greener again) as you go further south. Very nice.
Oil levels are checked when engine is off. Oil is circulating when engine is running. Your dip stick will not indicate correct oil level. it is also a potential problem to add oil when engine is running, you also run the risk of injury with moving engine parts. I suggest you also read the manual that came with he engine .If you don,t have it may be available on line. Good Luck!
I've really enjoyed your episodes on the river,so many cool things to see.I realise of course,it hasn't all been easy,and you aren't relaxing much,but you are living a dream,and you can go anywhere.It will be great to have a mast again,close now👍😊
I really enjoyed the river(s) trip , I know this is weeks old footage because you were in Florida on the hard ages ago , nevertheless it was good trip , well videoed including the drone footage and it showed a part of your country not many get to see . I loved it :-) A quick tip I'll share with anybody who reads this , if your diesel engine is hard to start in cold weather ( maybe your glow plugs aren't working very well or the battery is borderline ) take off the air cleaner and light up a sheet or two of bunched up newspaper and hold that over the intake while cranking , use tongs etc to hold it , it will help the engine start and any bits of carbon / paper that get sucked in will do no harm . Best regards all :-)
Beaver or otter yes, alligator no. Horned owl calling in background is cool. Yall try to look for mouth of creeks to anchor. Barge traffic at night especially can kill you. Even if the anchor holds. Guessing gps has alarm if anchor slips. Nice trip, ive run the rivers all my life and love it. Thats a nice time of year to head to knoxville.
So very jealous of the adventure you're starting. Good to do these things when your young, limber and have lots of energy! I look forward to keeping up with you guys on your journey!
These engines must have a cold diesel start setting.. some you have to push the stop leaver to enrich the injection. Some have a kit that is preheating the induction system. Make sure that glow plug is working. It can take more that 30 sec .. some times you need to glow 30 to 60 sec.. then crank and glow again. It needs to suck the warm air in to the cylinders. A hair dryer on the air intake will help but well your on a boat. If you cabin is warm open the engine bay and let it warm up with cabin heat. ( on our boats we have boiler heat to help and a webasto heat pipe runs next to it but those are Swedish ) Check the manual The way you do it now it the Russian way .. ;-) Cool pictures, well done ..keep it up !,, we love to see the progress..
Welcome back! I missed you both. I found your channel about a month ago and enjoyed a bit of binge watching to catch up. This made the wait between episodes very apparent! I look forward to your return to sailing in the upcoming episode. Safe travels...
Hey yall! Just binged your videos and all i can i say is what fun does it look like yall are having! Ive watched a few other sailing youtube channels and yours is by far my favorite! Yall are in inspiration. I cant wait to be able to start my adventures the same way yall have. Keep the videos flowing!
No matter the occupation, geographical location or the age of the person, you must insist on stopping to smell the roses. No one else can smell them for you.
Funny. It was just Yesterday that I realized I was having a bit of Kirk and Lauren (well, mostly Lauren) withdrawal symptoms. I’m so glad you came to my rescue! You do such a lovely job of preparing these glimpses into your lives. After the amazingly peaceful and romantic journey down rivers, I’m wondering how you’re gonna top yourselves.
Sailing/motoring is a lot of work - even while you telling us that it was the first break you had in a while you were doing TH-cam work. But it is joyful work. Thank you for sharing your journey :)
Hi, Looks like your engine is based on perkins 4107. The inlet manfiold heater is actually a fuel fired "flame "starter. Turning the key to preheat should open the solid and allow a small amount of fuel to drip on the heater element ( perkins call it a thernostarter) which catches fire when the heater element glows bright red. This catches fire and starts the engine when you crank it in to the cylinder. Main problem with these is that the drip feed for the fuel blocks or the element doesn't glow bright enough. Try cleaning the fuel feed with a needle and see if fuel drips out when you pre heat If no fuel comes through check the fuel line to the thermos tarter is clear. I used to own one and found out the long painful way. The videos are great you do remind me of Ross and Rachel and that's what's so likeable.
I’m so glad that you guys are back, I was missing my favorite young adventures. Very clever way to heat up the engine, I’m so impressed. I have to echo everyone’s safety concerns and might suggest my motto while on my boat,“Think twice, act once“. I have really enjoyed the river adventure and must restate once again, “Lauren is adorable“! Cheers guys
Hi guys. I recently found your channel, new subscriber also. The path y'all are on is a great one. In my opinion, the content is just right; between commentary and those beautiful scenery shots. I have to admit I am entertained as much by the learning curves as well as your successes. For all of us that can't venture out and make this particular dream a reality I would like to say thank you for providing an escape....even just 15 min at a time.
Glad your videoing again!! Never use starting fluid in a diesel!! Blows the head gasket. If she's not starting easily, check to make sure your intake pre-heater is actually pulling current! You can use your hand to feel warmth or use a voltmeter to verify voltage at the module. I suspect it's not working! It lives below the air horn (top of motor)on the intake manifold and has a wire going to it. You can remove it and inspect it or make sure it is shorted (it's a coil of wire that gets hot) with an ohm meter. Then make sure it gets voltage when you request it. It actually heats the air in the intake to aid in combustion(duh). It should start in 20 degree weather. This is an alternative to glow plugs and a much superior one. PS: I pulled up the manuals for your engine and looked at wiring and parts to identify where it is. Great Drone shots and they are not kidding about the skeeters!!
That depends on the engine, some diesel don't have preheating (glow plugs or heat grids especially older commercial ones) on them and staring fluid is fine for them. This engine might just be one of those. I have John Deere loader in my barn right now that I have a electric block heater on it for winter starting and when I don't have time to plug it in I give it a shot of starting fluid in the air breather. That's what John Deere recommends for winter starting. I agree you shouldn't use starting fluid on any diesels that preheats. But one that doesn't will NOT blow the head gaskets. It should be used very sparingly no matter what .It does dry the cylinder walls on any engine and it can lock up diesels. When the lockup happens you just have to wait for 15-20 min for the starting fluid to evaporate out of the engine. If it blew head gaskets I would have blown a ton of them on cranes & dossers & loaders and framing equipment over the years. I have a 2017 1 ton Chevy Duramax pickup truck that I would never use it on. It just depends on the engine. I would consider a block heater for the engine. You can put one in a cooling line or one that installs in a soft plug Then if you have a generator on board start it up and plug the engine in for 30 minutes and it will start like its summer. I also agree with some other comments you received on checking oil on a running engine. Its not accurate and its a safety issue waiting to happen. Check the oil before starting the engine. If someone gets some clothing caught in a belt of something in that running engine it could make for the worst day of your life. One thing I would be mindful of is, if you do use starting fluid you want to run your bilge blowers if your boat has them and vent the area real well. Stating fluid is very flammable, way more then diesel fuel. You don't want those fumes building up in the bilge, you could have an explosion or fire on your hands in an un-vented area. Be careful with its use on a boat. The scenery in the video is just fantastic.
I'm excited as you are to bust through to the salt waters of the Gulf, step that mast, and go sailing. Your drone shots are spectacular, keep up the great work.
I just found your videos today and I am so hooked! Now I am trying to convince my wife and kids to do our own sailing adventure. Thank you for the inspiration Lauren and Kirk!
I did your trip but going up river. Your videos bring back happy memories. Did you by chance anchor off Goat Island in the Tennessee river? We start our Yanmar 2g20 on cold mornings by shutting off the water supply, decompressing the engine then crank the engine for about 10 to 15 seconds several times letting the engine rest for about 30 between cranks. Recompress the engine, give her about half throttle, and she fires right up .Done this with ice on the deck. Just remember to turn the water back on.
Thank you all for the concern about checking the oil while the engine is running, we still have all ten fingers (and toes). We thought we had read in the manual that the correct oil level was when the engine was warm, clearly we took a shortcut here, never to do it again. Continue to enjoy the video, and if you've read this, feel free to spare us the additional comments about checking the oil. We've been reprimanded :)
Innocent mistake guys, my guess is you were reading something to do with checking transmission fluid.. that is one you do while it is running at least in vehicles.
I also just want to say kudos for owning the mistake, takes a lot to do it sometimes.
Not a reprimand. When the engine is running oil is being pumped around the block so theres less in the sump. So the dipstick under reads, and you will end up overfilling. Best to let it settle for 15 mins after shut off for the oil to drain back to the sump before checking, or do it from cold before starting. Loving the vids.
We love the videos guys, I know comments / the written word sounds much more harsh than when it is spoken, so please don’t take it as a reprimand just a concern for your safety,
Andy Pag also when the oil is too high in the sump the crank ends up hitting the oil which can lead basically whipping the oil in the oil pan or aerating the oil, leading to low oil pressure or not enough oil running through the engine, really bad for an engine,
Sailing Soulianis I didn’t mean to sound like I was beating u up.....I was a machinist, ole fella who had all his fingers screamed at me all the time about wearing long sleeves or gloves anywhere near any of those machines.........really really like your vids, u guys have a cool vibe, just didn’t want to see u get injured, sorry about my tone
Y'all picked the right time of year to go through the ditch. A little earlier in the year and the skeeters might have picked one of you up and dropped you in the swamp.
You picked the right time of year to make your journey to the Gulf. In warmer times you might have enjoyed not having to wear gloves and coats, but you’d have had to endure the bugs. Better off doing it that way you did. Far less traffic too!
I love your music selection. Much better than the recycled music that every other channel and TH-cam commercials use.
One of the most wonderful sailing videos I have ever seen on TH-cam. With no sails!
Haha thanks!
I know this is a very late addition, but I just joined the party. When I was, or put to sea more accurately, it wasn't to relax. It was to see the world. Thanks for letting this ole sub sailor tag along.
I love the alcohol burner under the oil pan! That's similar to the old trick we used in the UP of Michigan before synthetic oil. We kept a small, round BBQ grill (with legs removed) to slide under the engine to preheat. (Westerbeke 40 and river current...My CD27's 8 HP Yanmar doesn't stand a chance LOL)
My favorite part of this entire video was looking into that clear, blue water and watching the dolphins riding your bow wave... ;-) haha It's been such a long trip and during each episode, I think to myself, "If only I could loan them the 200hp outboard off my boat..." Can't wait to see the two of you not needing winter coats! Cheers!! ~Freezing in Kansas
Great trip so far, been enjoying it so much. I even back-tracked to get it from the beginning. Glad someone (seems like almost everyone :-) ) expressed love and concern. Stay safe. Or maybe more appropriately, keep moving safe.
After the first couple videos I thought, these two are naive and getting in over their heads. But, as the journey progresses you come into your own and learn and grow in a way that is totally wonderful to witness. I’m so excited to be along for your adventures. I appreciate that you keep it real.
Hi L and K! Thanks so much for your stuff! I have made your trip many times over the years; and it brought back lovely memories to see your re-creation. I thought Westerbeck had a glow plug kit.??? Anyway; my main concern is for your safety. When you introduced an open flame into the engine compartment, you made all five hairs on my almost completely bald head stand on end!! I am too old for such excitement! Again; thanks for all your stuff! You guys are a treasure!
I love how you guys have the drone footage, makes the content that much better. Would love to experience traveling on the water in a sailboat as you two are. So beautiful.
Cold mornings and warm afternoons nice boating weather ( 11:48 short or no sleeve deck nap lol ) welcome to the salt stay safe and have fun.
I really enjoy watching your river trip. It's a part of the country we westerners don"t get to see much. Beautiful. Thanks..
Homeeee home on the boat. Where the fish and the turtles swim. You have been taking us on a trip of a life time. All it cost us was time to watch your videos. Thanks
I am amazed at the number of barges on the smaller rivers. I had no idea that they traveled in such narrow tributaries. I'm learning every day.
It's fun to watch you guys, we did the same thing 10 years ago down the ICW in November/December, we froze, but it was fun, we had some of the same issues, and eventually it got warm, so keep going and enjoy every day!
Great to see you guys again... you have very nice taste in glass wear too... Yeah the arm past the running engine belt. OMG... Not only will you get engine stuff on the sleeve, but your arm can get ripped off. you don't look like you'd make a good amputee... Some injector pumps have a button on the side for cold starting. Pressed in is feeding a decent squirt into the lines and it released when the engine fires up. Ford diesels have that... Antway, What a lovely life this boat lifestyle is. Good on you for having the courage to let go...
Once again your ability to capture the beauty along the shore is amazing!
Love the drone shots over the tows as well.
Glad you’re back. I look forward to the next installment .
That opening sequence with the first person perspective was amazing 👍
Awesome, glad you liked it :D
Another brilliant episode, really enjoying your sojourn through all the fall colours, definitely better than everyone elses boring trips down the ICW, cheers 👍👍🇦🇺
Well done video! Yours are one of the best produced and highest quality videos of this genre on YT. Your time and talents are much appreciated!
Thank you Vince!
U2 are so kind to each other very inspiring
Love your choice of music in every episode combine with the beautiful colourful scenery. Thank you, Looking forward to see you sailing :)
The last 5 episodes feature music from exclusively from Common Jack! www.commonjackmusic.com
open.spotify.com/artist/6yZHZrHjYanoG5FZYfxOn2
As a Canadian I sympathize with the cold engine problem. An alternative solution that works for me is a bunch of reusable hot packs or hand warmers. You push the clicker to have them heat up and then pack them around the engine block. To regenerate them you just boil them in water and they are good to go for the next morning. Love your channel.
A beautiful video thank you so quiet and serene , but will be good to get the sails up , you are a lovely couple , look forward to more great scenery , well done
Well said Howard👍
Just relaxing on a Saturday morning watching sailing videos. This is my new favorite channel. Thank you for the vids!
Arguably one of the best sailing channels. I thoroughly enjoy your video quality and time not spent with long monologues explaining the mundane, just sticking to the topic. Keep up the great work you two, people like you are my inspiration to begin sailing, thanks is not a strong enough word!
Another beautiful video, thank you. One of my fondest memories was sitting out in the boat at night and identifying all the various Owl calls, in this case yours was a Bard Owl. Looking forward to you continued adventures.
I have so many channels I watch. Yours sparks a lot of smiles for me. Great views, great stories. Thanks again!
Beautiful scenery for sure !!
Wow. Wonderful vignettes interspersed throughout. You and RAN are getting very creative with your filming and editing. Thank you!
Another great video. It will be great to see the mast up again, but what an adventure travelling down (and sometimes up) Americas rivers.
Absolutely love this part of your trip, and its great to see footage of a segment of the river that most of us will never get to, during a time of year that few get to see. You two are doing so great, improvising and learning and having the experience of a lifetime!
Its worth re-iterating the comments below about hands and hair anywhere near those engine belts. The accident will happen before you even have a chance to react, and will end up being the worst day of your life.
While I'll miss seeing your view of the river, the open water will undoubtedly bring a new set of wild adventures!
Thanks very much, Kirk!
So close...it's been really neat to watch how you guys traverse the river to the ocean. Fortunately I have Lake Meade to use and learn on before making a boat purchase somewhere not landlocked to sail the seas.
I've been looking forward to each one of your great videos. Looks like a lot of work and planning but hey, better than 9:00 to 5:00. You only live once and I like how you guys are making the most of it. Can't wait for you to reach the sea and go on to exotic places. So much to look forward to and what a wonderful learning experience along the way. You just can't put a price on freedom, thank god we live in the greatest country in the world where a nice couple of sailing nomads can live and roam free. Please keep those videos coming.
You may not be getting lots of R and R but I sure am by watching SS! Your camera skills and music choices are always perfect. Thank You for another relaxing coffee break for me!
You bet!!
Another great video. Thanks for including us in you adventures.
Video had a great feel, i really liked the touch with the soulful talk in the cockpit about how busy it has been. Seemed real rather than manufactured excitement like others. I think it is what is driving Lavagabonds channel too. People wishing to be on your part are looking for relaxation from life and not high energy.
Oh and when you check the.... Just kidding :) I think it's great you are doing what you are doing. i am guessing in the rest of your travels, say you are on the hook in the Cook Islands, someone says, what's your home port and you say {actually, i am not sure what you'll say, so pardon my guessing...} Chicago, and you see that quizzical look on their faces, you can chuckle to yourself. Know that you are right now doing something very unique. thank you very very much for sharing it with us. most of us (at least at the moment) can't do what you are doing, and yet our lives are richer for getting the chance to see it through your eyes. And, personally, your channel is my favorite and pretty much my only sailing/boating channel. Thanks again!
Wow. Looks like y’all should’ve came into a lock right beside my house in a small town of amory Mississippi. Safe travels y’all.
Of the 10 or so sailing channels that I subscribe to, you have the best video images, by far. The picture composure, and the quality are both supurb so thanks for taking the time to be so proficient. We are enjoying your journey even though we are sitting in front of a computer screen and you are out there living life.
You guys got the best detailed videos.... glad your back!!!
Thank you Jeff!
This country really is beautiful! Love your vids!
Even with all the pollution and dead zones? Those rivers aren't what they were.
Your engine essentially needs a bit of warm(er) air in it's intake to get started. One trick could be to have a length of metal pipe perhaps 2-3 feet long which you could temporarily connect or hand-hold to the engine air intake while you heat the pipe with your alcohol puck. 5 minutes of heating should be plenty. Your preheater does this as well but also removes part of the oxygen needed for combustion...My trick is cheap, safe and works every time..hope this helps you one day! Cheers!
These are really nice videos. I love that part of the country (Great Lakes, Mississippi River, etc.). But as I watch I realize that being on a boat for months on end certainly can be great fun, but it is also hot/cold, cramped, slow, often tedious (like the locks) and needs constant maintenance. It's not my kind of fun, but it's fun to watch.
Spanish Moss is the correct answer as to what was hanging in the trees. The year 1955 was the first time I meet my grandparents in South Louisiana. The bed that my sister and I slept in was a large (gigantic to us) sewn heavy material case filled with Spanish Moss. My grandfather would take it outside about 3 or 4 times a year to air it out until the Spanish Moss needed changing. A Cajun mattress long before what is used today. Enjoying your videos.
Spanish moss mattress... no kidding. Thanks for sharing.
I have figured that you two have been long gone from the Mobile, AL area, too bad. I would have loved to buy you dinner here in the Orange Beach, AL area. If you head back this way going home please contact me. I'll get you on the return trip.
Beautiful shots....your vid's are better and better each time! Well done! Keep em coming!
Thanks David!
It's always something, rarely do you get to relax for long on a boat!
OK you've seen enough about the oil check. Another great video. You are my favourite couple.
Overall, just stunning!
Its kind of cool you were coming through my state (Alabama) on this one. Said it before and I'll say it again...best filming/editing of any YT Sailing channel.
Thanks Steve 💙
with exception of that dipstick moment, very relaxing episode ;-). can't wait to see you guys sailing again!
Спасибо вам за ваше потрясающее видео! Всегда приятно на вас смотреть!
Having operated a truck-tractor for 30 years, I found that it was beneficial to diesel engines to keep fuel conditioner in tanks. It helps with cold weather starts and helps prevent algae build-up.Also, a small amount of #1 diesel helps.
But should it ever be difficult to start a diesel at 55 degrees? I can understand -20.
@@curiousnomadic I agree...That is a warm spell.
I wounder if it's more a rings or compression issue?
The idea of putting the alcohol burner with a pan on top in the engine compartment is freakin' genius! A few seasoned mechanics might try a torch or maybe an alcohol burner alone, which is dangerous, but the pan is what makes it reasonable, reliable, safer, and freakin' genius!
Fantastic cinematography!
My first time watching......magnificent footage! The river is a whole world I know nothing about. Most of my favorite times with my sailboat were just sitting on a mooring or anchor. You need a lot of attention to run any boat safely and efficiently......I love the mooring! DD
I must say. I'm new to your channel, but your video, editing, style, and choice of music make your adventures very pleasurable to watch. I'm quickly becoming a fan, and you haven't even reached the south yet! Keep up the great work!
Kudos to Lauren on all her good ideas!
Good Saturday morning! Gotta love the rivers in the morning, the stillness and the fog and the colors in the trees are heavenly. Enjoying your travels!
Great videos as always and an amazing voyage you are on. Its really cool.to see the changes in the trees (getting greener again) as you go further south. Very nice.
Excited to see you guys adventure. Can't wait to see the Gulf from your points of view. :)
Oil levels are checked when engine is off. Oil is circulating when engine is running. Your dip stick will not indicate correct oil level. it is also a potential problem to add oil when engine is running, you also run the risk of injury with moving engine parts. I suggest you also read the manual that came with he engine .If you don,t have it may be available on line. Good Luck!
OIL LEVELS ARE CHECKED WHEN ENGINE IS OFF!!!!!!
Yes, I cringed watching her reach over that spinning fan belt.
@markleyg me too
OIL LEVELS ARE CHECKED WHEN ENGINE IS OFF!!!!!!
Beautiful video. I hated for it to end, lol. Good work guys. Fair seas 👍❤⛵⚓🍻
I've really enjoyed your episodes on the river,so many cool things to see.I realise of course,it hasn't all been easy,and you aren't relaxing much,but you are living a dream,and you can go anywhere.It will be great to have a mast again,close now👍😊
I really enjoyed the river(s) trip , I know this is weeks old footage because you were in Florida on the hard ages ago , nevertheless it was good trip , well videoed including the drone footage and it showed a part of your country not many get to see . I loved it :-)
A quick tip I'll share with anybody who reads this , if your diesel engine is hard to start in cold weather ( maybe your glow plugs aren't working very well or the battery is borderline ) take off the air cleaner and light up a sheet or two of bunched up newspaper and hold that over the intake while cranking , use tongs etc to hold it , it will help the engine start and any bits of carbon / paper that get sucked in will do no harm . Best regards all :-)
wow. what a beautiful and professionally edited video. very artistic and cohesive. kudos.
Thank you Peter.
I stayed in the last place you stayed on this video. River wasn’t as high as you had. Bringing back great memories. Keep it up. Love your videos.
Beaver or otter yes, alligator no. Horned owl calling in background is cool. Yall try to look for mouth of creeks to anchor. Barge traffic at night especially can kill you. Even if the anchor holds. Guessing gps has alarm if anchor slips. Nice trip, ive run the rivers all my life and love it. Thats a nice time of year to head to knoxville.
I LOVED this video. I can't wait to do that trip myself. The time and effort you put into your videos is obvious. Thank You!
Great video guys - you have a nice vibe going.
So very jealous of the adventure you're starting. Good to do these things when your young, limber and have lots of energy! I look forward to keeping up with you guys on your journey!
These engines must have a cold diesel start setting.. some you have to push the stop leaver to enrich the injection.
Some have a kit that is preheating the induction system. Make sure that glow plug is working.
It can take more that 30 sec .. some times you need to glow 30 to 60 sec.. then crank and glow again.
It needs to suck the warm air in to the cylinders. A hair dryer on the air intake will help but well your on a boat.
If you cabin is warm open the engine bay and let it warm up with cabin heat.
( on our boats we have boiler heat to help and a webasto heat pipe runs next to it but those are Swedish )
Check the manual
The way you do it now it the Russian way .. ;-)
Cool pictures, well done ..keep it up !,, we love to see the progress..
Welcome back! I missed you both. I found your channel about a month ago and enjoyed a bit of binge watching to catch up. This made the wait between episodes very apparent! I look forward to your return to sailing in the upcoming episode. Safe travels...
Darn, I'm all caught up on your videos now...can't wait for the next one!
Hey yall! Just binged your videos and all i can i say is what fun does it look like yall are having! Ive watched a few other sailing youtube channels and yours is by far my favorite! Yall are in inspiration. I cant wait to be able to start my adventures the same way yall have.
Keep the videos flowing!
Thanks, Grant :)
Yeah same here.
I was getting worried about you both but then I opened my I Pad this morning and there you were! Happy for you in reaching salt water!
Thanks Jack!
The anchorage in the river looks very peaceful. Excited to see what's on the other side of that last lock..."salt water"
Oh and I might add I wish you both only the best. What your doing the rest of us only dream of doing.
Great episode!
I want to take that route.
Next video, salt water and it'll be like a start to a new chapter in your life 😊 I can't wait!
love your videos and journey; thanks for sharing your life and experience with the world!
Well done!! The editing and music superb!!! Beautiful scenery and you guys aint bad either!!!!
No matter the occupation, geographical location or the age of the person, you must insist on stopping to smell the roses. No one else can smell them for you.
Funny. It was just Yesterday that I realized I was having a bit of Kirk and Lauren (well, mostly Lauren) withdrawal symptoms. I’m so glad you came to my rescue! You do such a lovely job of preparing these glimpses into your lives. After the amazingly peaceful and romantic journey down rivers, I’m wondering how you’re gonna top yourselves.
Sailing/motoring is a lot of work - even while you telling us that it was the first break you had in a while you were doing TH-cam work. But it is joyful work. Thank you for sharing your journey :)
Hi, Looks like your engine is based on perkins 4107. The inlet manfiold heater is actually a fuel fired "flame "starter. Turning the key to preheat should open the solid and allow a small amount of fuel to drip on the heater element ( perkins call it a thernostarter) which catches fire when the heater element glows bright red. This catches fire and starts the engine when you crank it in to the cylinder. Main problem with these is that the drip feed for the fuel blocks or the element doesn't glow bright enough. Try cleaning the fuel feed with a needle and see if fuel drips out when you pre heat If no fuel comes through check the fuel line to the thermos tarter is clear. I used to own one and found out the long painful way. The videos are great you do remind me of Ross and Rachel and that's what's so likeable.
beautiful autumn colors ! Sailing life soon ! Best to both o you from the french alps skiing !
I’m so glad that you guys are back, I was missing my favorite young adventures. Very clever way to heat up the engine, I’m so impressed. I have to echo everyone’s safety concerns and might suggest my motto while on my boat,“Think twice, act once“. I have really enjoyed the river adventure and must restate once again, “Lauren is adorable“! Cheers guys
Love you guys! I was so sad when you disappeared for a while. I am so looking forward to when you get into the sea!
Hi guys. I recently found your channel, new subscriber also. The path y'all are on is a great one. In my opinion, the content is just right; between commentary and those beautiful scenery shots. I have to admit I am entertained as much by the learning curves as well as your successes. For all of us that can't venture out and make this particular dream a reality I would like to say thank you for providing an escape....even just 15 min at a time.
Beautiful sights on the river. Loving the videos. keep it up.
Glad your videoing again!! Never use starting fluid in a diesel!! Blows the head gasket. If she's not starting easily, check to make sure your intake pre-heater is actually pulling current! You can use your hand to feel warmth or use a voltmeter to verify voltage at the module. I suspect it's not working! It lives below the air horn (top of motor)on the intake manifold and has a wire going to it. You can remove it and inspect it or make sure it is shorted (it's a coil of wire that gets hot) with an ohm meter. Then make sure it gets voltage when you request it. It actually heats the air in the intake to aid in combustion(duh). It should start in 20 degree weather. This is an alternative to glow plugs and a much superior one. PS: I pulled up the manuals for your engine and looked at wiring and parts to identify where it is. Great Drone shots and they are not kidding about the skeeters!!
That depends on the engine, some diesel don't have preheating (glow plugs or heat grids especially older commercial ones) on them and staring fluid is fine for them. This engine might just be one of those. I have John Deere loader in my barn right now that I have a electric block heater on it for winter starting and when I don't have time to plug it in I give it a shot of starting fluid in the air breather. That's what John Deere recommends for winter starting. I agree you shouldn't use starting fluid on any diesels that preheats. But one that doesn't will NOT blow the head gaskets. It should be used very sparingly no matter what .It does dry the cylinder walls on any engine and it can lock up diesels. When the lockup happens you just have to wait for 15-20 min for the starting fluid to evaporate out of the engine. If it blew head gaskets I would have blown a ton of them on cranes & dossers & loaders and framing equipment over the years. I have a 2017 1 ton Chevy Duramax pickup truck that I would never use it on. It just depends on the engine.
I would consider a block heater for the engine. You can put one in a cooling line or one that installs in a soft plug Then if you have a generator on board start it up and plug the engine in for 30 minutes and it will start like its summer.
I also agree with some other comments you received on checking oil on a running engine. Its not accurate and its a safety issue waiting to happen. Check the oil before starting the engine. If someone gets some clothing caught in a belt of something in that running engine it could make for the worst day of your life.
One thing I would be mindful of is, if you do use starting fluid you want to run your bilge blowers if your boat has them and vent the area real well. Stating fluid is very flammable, way more then diesel fuel. You don't want those fumes building up in the bilge, you could have an explosion or fire on your hands in an un-vented area. Be careful with its use on a boat.
The scenery in the video is just fantastic.
marty, these older video you can spray (a little) of starting fluid (ether) in them. I am a certified diesel engineer. Thanks
Sorry mean “Diesel”
I'm excited as you are to bust through to the salt waters of the Gulf, step that mast, and go sailing. Your drone shots are spectacular, keep up the great work.
You both seem so sweet together. I’m glad I found this channel.
Happy travels!
From 🇨🇦
Hi you guys Interesting! Love you're work and vlogs Australia
I just found your videos today and I am so hooked! Now I am trying to convince my wife and kids to do our own sailing adventure. Thank you for the inspiration Lauren and Kirk!
I did your trip but going up river. Your videos bring back happy memories. Did you by chance anchor off Goat Island in the Tennessee river? We start our Yanmar 2g20 on cold mornings by shutting off the water supply, decompressing the engine then crank the engine for about 10 to 15 seconds several times letting the engine rest for about 30 between cranks. Recompress the engine, give her about half throttle, and she fires right up .Done this with ice on the deck. Just remember to turn the water back on.
constantly motoring on a river, through locks, dodging obstacles will be a little different than a week in a beautiful anchorage in the Caribbean.