420/44 DB Owners Club

[Jeff Carrick]

From the parts manual:

View attachment 103843

Thanks buddy

 

[LG111]

I've got a water maker on board that I am not sure if I will ever use. It was put in new in 2014 and supposedly is pickled, I need to do a lot of reading to figure it out. Its kind of a liability of sorts to have it and not use it as the membranes I understand require attention or replacement. It takes up room and is mounted on the starboard side to add to the listing issue. Its a $15,000 upgrade that was done so i don't take removing it lightly but why have it if I'm not likely to use it?
Its pretty far down the list of things to worry about though.

I removed the water maker on my 07. I think it was added as an option from the dealer via original owner. It sat to the right of the geny and just a waist of space. The cost to get it running with new membranes and filters was ridiculous. Turned out when I was getting my new lift installed the boat next to mine, he was looking for a used system. Luck of the draw, he paid for the removal, wiring and all. And bought the unit to boot. One day it was there the next it was gone! Wallah!

 

[Carpediem44DB]

I removed the water maker on my 07. I think it was added as an option from the dealer via original owner. It sat to the right of the geny and just a waist of space. The cost to get it running with new membranes and filters was ridiculous. Turned out when I was getting my new lift installed the boat next to mine, he was looking for a used system. Luck of the draw, he paid for the removal, wiring and all. And bought the unit to boot. One day it was there the next it was gone! Wallah!

Funny, There is sail boat down the dock from me that I heard the owner is looking to install a water maker, I might just make his day. I do not intend to ever make long passage with this boat and where we boat currently we are never far from a clean fresh water source. If I was a serious prepper I would keep it as part of my survival plan but I'm not so perhaps Ill be rid of it. So many decisions!

 

[AEO]

I removed the water maker on my 07. I think it was added as an option from the dealer via original owner. It sat to the right of the geny and just a waist of space. The cost to get it running with new membranes and filters was ridiculous. Turned out when I was getting my new lift installed the boat next to mine, he was looking for a used system. Luck of the draw, he paid for the removal, wiring and all. And bought the unit to boot. One day it was there the next it was gone! Wallah!

I bought a Rainmaker Watermaker about a year ago and now couldn’t imagine boating without it. No need to worry about conserving water or leaving the dock with a full tank, wife can take as long as she likes in the shower. Great asset for a harmonious marriage and stress free boating. We island hop and, if I can avoid it, will rarely go near a dock. It’s a lot like having solar power, totally self reliant.

 

[AEO]

Ok, here's some fun! In about 4 years or so (gotta get the kids out of high school!), when September comes we plan to head south to the Bahamas instead of packing-up the boat. We could do it with the 44DB. I have seen some videos from a couple doing the loop in one. Maybe we would change to something different, although I don't know what...I really love the 44DB!

If we take the 44DB, I have a wish list of upgrades (and some that are not coupled to the journey as well). Here is the list so far...I am sure others have some great ideas and input:

Helm
- better, more ergonomic captain and navigator seating
- replace all the factory-original electronics (chartplotters, autopilot, radar, VHF)
- add AIS, N2K bus
- replace SC5000
- complete the installation of the Pepwave cellular router and related networking
- install some ventilation for rainy days (fans?)

Galley
- upgrade the convection microwave with a better, modern unit
- upgrade the cooktop to induction
- replace the aging fridge
- trash compactor maybe...where would it go?
- I am pondering a garburator for the galley sink...good idea, environmentally horrible?

Utility
- install a water maker
- add solar panels and upgrade the battery and charging system
- add a main inverter to replace point of use inverters
- add a raw water washdown (more for freshwater use)

Entertainment
- complete the upgrade of the Fusion audio system to 4 discrete zones
- maybe modernize the satellite TV system

Other
- add a Freedom Lift (will get a different dinghy)
- add shelving in the engine room to increase storage
- add cameras in the engine room
- figure out a convenient, safe way to store some gasoline jerry cans

This is somewhat off the top of my head this morning. Maybe I should just get a new boat!!

Don’t even dream of getting a new boat! I did pretty much everything you just mentioned to my boat too. And now the transom module extension. The 44DB Is the perfect boat and to do a complete refresh makes sense.
I also added a Yacht Controller, all new Raymarine electronics including 16” and 12” Axiom Displays, Autopilot, FLIR and Clearcruise. I also installed a brand new radar, Tracvision satellite dome and low profile Scanstrut stand (all painted black), larger auto levelling tabs, wifi, Fusion, Infrared touchless taps, new toilets, SS Vitrifrigo fridge, all new upholstery (with SR embossing), new rocker switches, chain counter, Watermaker. Even dark window tinting. The list goes on and on .. Everything has either been replaced or refreshed. It’s a boat I can afford even with the upgrades. And still cheaper than a new replacement, which I struggled to find btw ..
My wife has given up and just rolls her eyes and asks, ‘what now’ .. But she loves it just as much and has all the creature comforts so she’s happy.

 

[bajturner]

I bought a Rainmaker Watermaker about a year ago and now couldn’t imagine boating without it. No need to worry about conserving water or leaving the dock with a full tank, wife can take as long as she likes in the shower. Great asset for a harmonious marriage and stress free boating. We island hop and, if I can avoid it, will rarely go near a dock. It’s a lot like having solar power, totally self reliant.

Water is a precious resource for us as well. We don't typically hang at docks a lot, and with two teenage daughters, we can go through a lot! Not sure I would use a watermaker for just anchoring-out within an hour or two of our marina (and it's not clear how well they can be made to work in freshwater), but I view it as a must for long-distance cruising and hanging in the Bahamas. The install would be timed with that requirement.

I do have some thoughts of adapting the potable water system so some draws could be selectable between potable and raw- toilets, showers (cold side), anchor locker, through a good filter and while in clean, fresh water.

I have been looking at the Rainmaker models for a while. Did you go with a portable or built-in. Would love some pictures of the install if built-in...

 

[AEO]

Water is a precious resource for us as well. We don't typically hang at docks a lot, and with two teenage daughters, we can go through a lot! Not sure I would use a watermaker for just anchoring-out within an hour or two of our marina (and it's not clear how well they can be made to work in freshwater), but I view it as a must for long-distance cruising and hanging in the Bahamas. The install would be timed with that requirement.

I do have some thoughts of adapting the potable water system so some draws could be selectable between potable and raw- toilets, showers (cold side), anchor locker, through a food filter and while clean, fresh water.

I have been looking at the Rainmaker models for a while. Did you go with a portable or built-in. Would love some pictures of the install if built-in...

Please see the attached photo. It’s the blue built in unit on the RHS and the filter is just above it with the purple band.

The pressure gauge and valve live in the storage locker on the RHS of the cockpit nearest the sliding door.

 

[bajturner]

Don’t even dream of getting a new boat! I did pretty much everything you just mentioned to my boat too. And now the transom module extension. The 44DB Is the perfect boat and to do a complete refresh makes sense.
I also added a Yacht Controller, all new Raymarine electronics including 16” and 12” Axiom Displays, Autopilot, FLIR and Clearcruise. I also installed a brand new radar, Tracvision satellite dome and low profile Scanstrut stand (all painted black), larger auto levelling tabs, wifi, Fusion, Infrared touchless taps, new toilets, SS Vitrifrigo fridge, all new upholstery (with SR embossing), new rocker switches, chain counter, Watermaker. Even dark window tinting. The list goes on and on .. Everything has either been replaced or refreshed. It’s a boat I can afford even with the upgrades. And still cheaper than a new replacement, which I struggled to find btw ..
My wife has given up and just rolls her eyes and asks, ‘what now’ .. But she loves it just as much and has all the creature comforts so she’s happy.

Great list!

ClearCruise looks cool. I hadn't checked that out before. I've thought about the chain counter...should probably add that to the list. Right now I count revolutions of the windlass chain wheel...each revolution is about a foot! I did dark tinting to the front windows a couple years ago. It helps with keeping heat down a lot.

I was reminded of one more upgrade...add hardwood floor to the salon.

Would love to find a good washer/dryer combo unit that works well.

 

[bajturner]

Please see the attached photo. It’s the blue built in unit on the RHS and the filter I’d just above it with the purple band.

Awesome, thank you!. Looks like you moved some things around in that location. I see the pressure supply pump and intake filter, can I ask where you mounted the RO filters?

 

[AEO]

Great list!

ClearCruise looks cool. I hadn't checked that out before. I've thought about the chain counter...should probably add that to the list. Right now I count revolutions of the windlass chain wheel...each revolution is about a foot! I did dark tinting to the front windows a couple years ago. It helps with keeping heat down a lot.

I was reminded of one more upgrade...add hardwood floor to the salon.

Would love to find a good washer/dryer combo unit that works well.

I’m a big fan of carpet. Totally impractical but can’t beat the feeling. I posted a picture of the carpet and the SS Fridge.

 

[bajturner]

I’m a big fan of carpet. Totally impractical but can’t beat the feeling. I posted a picture of the carpet and the SS Fridge.

I like the feel of carpet as well, and it would help reduce noise while underway in the salon, but that particular area really takes a beating. I replaced the salon carpet a couple years ago. With a lot of attention is still looks decent, but a lot of food transits that space, as well as wet feet, groceries, etc. Maybe just replacing it every few years would be smarter. It was only about $400 to have made. Hardwood done right would probably be 10X that!

 

[AEO]

Awesome, thank you!. Looks like you moved some things around in that location. I see the pressure supply pump and intake filter, can I ask where you mounted the RO filters?

You can just see them further outboard RHS. I had it professionally installed. It has an auto backwash function the operates every few days.

 

[bajturner]

That makes things simple. Sure hate to fall off the back of boat every time I try to secure the sides of the dinghy.

Hey Flix2, coincidentally another member referenced the video I was talking about where the dinghy pulled the entire locker off the deck of the boat. A different Sea Ray model, but worth watching. You don't want anything that will exert any real force attached to the locker area, in particular if you will be in big water!

http://clubsearay.com/index.php?thr...b-at-the-haulover-inlet-graphic-video.103372/

One other thing this video reminded me...never lower your swim platform if the boat is pitching up and down in waves. The force will possibly damage it.

 

[AEO]

Hey Flix2, coincidentally another member referenced the video I was talking about where the dinghy pulled the entire locker off the deck of the boat. A different Sea Ray model, but worth watching. You don't want anything that will exert any real force attached to the locker area, in particular if you will be in big water!

http://clubsearay.com/index.php?thr...b-at-the-haulover-inlet-graphic-video.103372/

One other thing this video reminded me...never lower your swim platform if the boat is pitching up and down in waves. The force will possibly damage it.

Just told my shipwrights to put some extra bolts in mine ... ;-)

 

[Irie308]

Noticing spider cracks in the gelcoat around the base of the flag poll holder. Mine is installed star of the transom locker. Have seen it in the same location on other 42/44 DB. Have others noticed the same? Looking to mount elsewhere.

 

[RBB]

Fellas our new to us 06 44DB with QSC 500s has a 24x27 prop. I have not had a chance to run the fuel burn curve on it. We have a new set coming for backup. Just curious what you guys with that engine is running for prop's.
when we brought it home we cruised at 26-28 MPH at no more than 69-70% load according to the diesel view. those numbers are down stream in the Ohio River,

 

[AEO]

Fellas our new to us 06 44DB with QSC 500s has a 24x27 prop. I have not had a chance to run the fuel burn curve on it. We have a new set coming for backup. Just curious what you guys with that engine is running for prop's.
when we brought it home we cruised at 26-28 MPH at no more than 69-70% load according to the diesel view. those numbers are down stream in the Ohio River,

I’ve been thinking of tuning mine but everything I’ve read about propping our boats, from boat diesel.com to SBmarine says if you are getting 2650-2680 at WOT then don’t mess with it. I am getting 2680 and 26-27 knots so I’m reluctant to do anything. Be interested to see what others have done.

 

[RBB]

I’ve been thinking of tuning mine but everything I’ve read about propping our boats, from boat diesel.com to SBmarine says if you are getting 2650-2680 at WOT then don’t mess with it. I am getting 2680 and 26-27 knots so I’m reluctant to do anything. Be interested to see what others have done.

based on a survey it would run 2680 wide open, loaded. I am also reluctant to do anything yet. However I do intend to run a fuel burn test as soon as i can. The boat runs flawless and the speed is scary after owning a big gas powered boat. Ran it home down stream at 27-28 mph for a 135-140 miles and nothing heated up. and yes i am familiar with diesels, on everything besides boats.

 

[RBB]

AEO, what props r u running sir

 

[AEO]

AEO, what props r u running sir

Not sure to be honest. Stock standard is all I can say.

I am toying with the idea of uprating my engines to 550 hp... But that’s another story