Dargaville Online 120908.pmd

New Dargaville Website Testing
Two weeks after it’s launch, the
new Dargaville website is proving
a winner. Thanks to all who have
provided feedback, and corrections.
This is truly a forward step
for our town!
Some Useful New Zealand Websites
Often the kids want to complete a homework project
about New Zealand. Unfortunately we are such a spec
in comparison to the rest of the world that the traditional
encyclopaedias, books and magazines overlook
us or just give us a passing reference.
In addition to Wikipedia here are some other useful
websites for New Zealand specific information:
www.teara.govt.nz — an online encyclopaedia of New
Zealand.
www.nzhistory.net.nz - New Zealand History Online
http://www.nzetc.org/ - New Zealand Electronic Text
Centre
This Weeks How To’s:
De-winterising Your Boat
Waking up your boat after a long hibernation is an
anticipated chore we all eagerly await. There’s no better
feeling come spring than hearing the engine
smoothly purr for the first time - ready to breathe life
into another full season on the water.
Getting into the habit of de-winterizing your boat, engine,
and trailer before hitting the lake ensures that
everything will be in tip-top shape, leading to a stressfree
maiden voyage, and far less headaches when riding
the wet stuff. Follow this simple guide to find out
the necessary steps to success.
The Boat
Take heed: you do not find what you do not seek.
English Proverb
The first step to take after removing the cover, tarp, or
shrink-wrap is to give the boat a thorough cleaning.
This includes wiping down the interior of the boat, vacuuming
the carpet, and power washing the exterior. If
you wax your hull, now would be the best time to do it.
If your lower gear case oil was not changed during the
winterization step, now is the time to do it. Check other
fluid levels, if applicable, and top up or change if necessary.
Lubricate all moving connections, including the
steering, throttle, and shifting. Also grease splines on
the propeller shaft with the recommended marine
grease. While doing this, look for damage on the propeller
itself. If cracks, breaks, or dents are found, a
new unit may need purchasing, or getting it rebuilt
might be an option. When replacing the propeller,
torque the nut to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
(This can be found in your owner’s manual.) Now is
also a good time to buy a spare prop if you don’t already
keep one on board.
Reconnect fuel lines, paying careful attention to tighten
hose clamps or replace if needed. If lines are showing
wear and tear, or feel brittle to the touch, then they
should be replaced. Also check the starter cord for
any frays, knots, or pronounced wear.
If possible, test your engine out at home by using a
garden hose and engine muffs. This will allow you to
establish that everything is working up to snuff, and
any adjustments and repairs can be easily made while
standing on dry ground.
It is recommended that the water impeller be changed
every two years, or whenever the discharge stream is
not being displaced strongly or in a straight line. Keep
this in mind when you start the boat.
Your engine may smoke considerably when running
for the first time, but don’t be alarmed. This is common,
and is a result of the fogging agent and fuel stabilizer
being run through the system. While the engine
is idling, it is a good idea to check for any water
leaks from the cooling system, as well as making sure
that all of your instrument gauges are working properly.
DARGAVILLE DARGAVILLE BOOK BOOK BOOK BOOK BOOK BOOK BOOK EXCHANGE
EXCHANGE
AND AND CRAFT
CRAFT
LOCALLY MADE CRAFTS & PRODUCE
95a Victoria Street
Dargaville
Phone (09) 439 5937
Rock With John Sat Nights!
8 - 10pm on Today FM 106.7