Log Books

Molly Too · Post by **Molly Too** » Thu Aug 12, 2010 12:26 pm

I want to keep a logbook - primarily for maintenance reasons. There sure are a lot of them out there - which causes me to ask what do others use? Something published, just a notebook, computer based, loose leaf, bound, capacities, part numbers, filter listings, trips, navigation, 8-1/2x11 â€“ this list isnâ€™t nearly complete.

sehord · Post by **sehord** » Thu Aug 12, 2010 12:45 pm

I keep a basic maintenance log. I keep all my filter numbers (and prices i paid) in there, and if anything is changed, leaked or repaired I make a note of the hours on the hobbs meter along with what it was. That way I can go back and review. I also keep a record of the hours suring each change out of filters or impellers. another good idea is to track your standard temps and oil pressure numbers so you will know if something isn't sitting right.

I hand write mine in a book. I know there are cool software programs out there for that, but i would never enter it all right... i'd rather do it on the boat when I am looking at it.

randyp · Post by **randyp** » Thu Aug 12, 2010 12:52 pm

When I got the boat in 1999 it had several logs all the way from 1977 when it was brand new. Since that time I've progressed (or regressed) to a simple spiral ring pocket note book where I enter the date and day as well as "stop" "start" and "total" for engine hours. In the remaining space I add any comments about either maintenance, projects to be done, or just general information (weather, passengers, etc). Any time I buy fuel I total up the number of hours between fill ups and then use this to divide into the gallons purchased for a running gal/hour entry. At the end of the season I scan the log and set up projects noted, repairs or maintenance noted but not completed, and then set up my off-season "to do" list.

k9th · Post by **k9th** » Thu Aug 12, 2010 4:58 pm

I just keep mine in a simple notebook with dates and pertinent details. I keep it aboard the boat so it is always available when I need it. I also keep as a part of that log fuel burn and performance notes during trips.

I figure some day when I retire and maybe cannot do as much boating as I do now I will enjoy reading the log and remembering my great times aboard SeaDog.