Reviewed in SAILING March 2010: The subtitle and blurbs on the front of this hard cover book are almost substantial enough to brief any potential buyer about the scope of its contents, without having to go to the trouble of reading a book review. ‘How to Design, Install, and Evaluate Mechanical Systems in Boats’ it reads, followed by a further breakdown of what to expect: Drive Train; Engine Exhaust; Fuel Systems; Rudders and Steering; Anchors and Anchor Handling; Bilge and Fire Systems; Ventilation. The author, who also wrote ‘The Elements of Boat Strength’ does, indeed, fulfill every promise on the cover, and indeed, a whole lot more, and the result is a comprehensive guide for anyone designing or installing mechanical systems on a boat, or evaluating them. Loaded with graphs, sketches, formulas, and many tables with conversion figures and calculations, the guide may at times be a bit too much for the average DIY man; but a serious boat builder or owner, or a marine professional, will find it invaluable.

Price: (South African Rands):   R 600
Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Book ID (for ordering):   2610