The Boater

A bit too long a trip for me. I could bring it down the Grand Union and up the Thames if someone else could do the Nene.

I do boat movements, but would need more details of where exactly the boat is now.

Try Narrow boat Crew On Line.

The age is not a problem but maybe consider looking into getting extra experienced crew help from somewhere like Narrow boat Crew On Line to make the heavier locks easier. Remember the golden boating rule to go slowly. Ian.

Have you tried going on Narrow boat on line?

It looks as though the only two days I can do is either the first or second. I am a motorcycle mechanic and next week is booked up already. I may be able to be dogless sometimes after the 3rd but won't know which days till nearer the time. Ian.

I can offer crew help on various days as long as you don't mind me being accompanied by a very well behaved Jack Russell. Ian.

A 25 hp engine on a 20 ft boat is adequate but not excessive. Having done it myself I can say it will be somewhat of a challenge especially on the river fed sections of the K and A, but rewarding. You could always post on the crew wanted section for help. Ian, The Boater.

I will probably be able to help you with this dependant on the dates chosen. Ian.

I have been trying to send you a personal message to offer crew help but I think you have to made 5 posts on the forum for your message system to become active. Ian 07704 249 523

I should be free to help you depending on what dates you had in mind. I don't charge a fee if I get fed and watered. Ian The Boater. 07704 249 523

The safest way to test for siezure is to remove the spark plugs and attempt to turn the engine over using a socket on the crankshaft pulley bolt. It is important on a Duration not too use too much force in case it is the camshaft that is seized other wise the belts can slip and cause bent valves etc. It is unusual for them to seize unless they have been unused for a long while. Ian 07704 249 523

I am available for filling slots of around a week at a time if you need me. Peter X knows me as we have crewed together in the past. Ian

I have always found them to be excellent, and when the hull of my boat needed welding they were very sensibly priced. Very useful chandlery too.

If you go via the canal at Brentford through to the Lea rather than the Thames through London then there is not much to fear as long as you get your timings right. sadly I can't do Saturday, but am free on the Monday or Tuesday to accompany you through the short tidal section of the Thames and onto the start of the canal at Brentford if it helps. I am a volunteer lock keeper for C R T on the Hanwell Flight of locks and can help you through these if you need it. Ian. 07704 249 523.

Don't forget to check for winter Maintenance closures before you set off.

One thing that may apply is that there maybe (like on motorcycles) an isolater switch on the clutch pedal only allowing the starter to work when the clutch pedal is pressed down

It sounds as though it may be the solenoid part of the starter motor that is at fault if you have full voltage at the connection to the starter motor. What engine is in your boat.? Ian

See you on Sunday morning early. Ian

Just to set the record straight it has nothing to do with speed of transit, it is everything to do with helping those who are experiencing difficulty with doing the thing that they love. I had to let my own boat go when I was found to have Cancer, and now that I am in remission I am getting my boating fix by helping others. I am also a Voluntary Lock Keeper for CRT on the Hanwell Flight on the Grand Union, and have been involved with canals all my adult life. I live within sight of Shepperton Studios and cover all the waterways from the Midlands To The River Wey.

I don't charge a fee, but it is nice to be fed and watered occasionally. Sometimes accompanied by a little rescue Jack Russell called Terry the Terrier. Ian

I can help you for some of the trip, personal message sent.

I am happy to move the boat to Yelvertoft either with you or single handed (or a mixture of both). I don't charge a fee for this, just any expences incurred such as travelling etc. It is also very welcome to be fed and watered but not essential. Ian. 07704 249 523.

Bump