Jigsawged

After you did that magnificent repair on my 3 section prop shaft last year Richard, you recommended that I use really thick grease. I was going to buy some from the diesel seller at Wheaton Aston but they only had a tub about as big as 3 x1L paint cans...far too much for my needs but only about £9:50. My local engineering supplies company advised "Water pump grease" I was able to buy a standard sized tube for about 4 pounds and that is what I now use.

Thanks to all of you for the very helpful advice. My friend is very grateful. Particular thanks to David Mack for the Pennine Waterways link.

Can anyone please advise on the following: What is the maximum length of narrowboat for getting across to Castleford via either the Huddersfield or the Rochdale? The Canalplanner website says 57'6" or get another boat. Nicholsons talks about 57'6" but then says in brackets (or 60' narrowboat). One of the restricted points is in Wakefield; which just about clobbers everything. This from a friend with a 60ft Narrowboat. Thanks

Absolutely right. Isn't it so easy to just have a pop (and often from a position of ignorance, not being in possession of all the facts) Have a Greenie.

I have been experiencing a very similar problem with a 30 PSI Shurflo pump that has been fitted firstly in my daughter's boat (now replaced) and latterly in my own boat. After checking very thoroughly for leaks, then changing the PRV, I concluded that the pump was building up too much pressure, thus opening the PRV. Changed the pump for an identical spare that I keep, problem solved. I now intend to service or replace the pressure switch on the faulty pump and hopefully then have a good spare. Good luck with yours.

Try ebay, never know your luck, you may get one cheaper.

Well said Mike ....here here

And what's wrong with that? Actually, that's really handy. I'm going to a birthday bash themed on the sixties. I imagine most blokes will turn up wearing a bandana, flowery shirt and John Lennon glasses - a look I will most definitely avoid; now wher can I get one of those jackets, Next perhaps? I think I've still got some flares in my wardrobe!

Wouldn't you look miserable if you had to wear c*ap like that? What on earth makes the "designers" think any sane person would give it house room. What are they teaching in the Design schools and colleges these days? Probably asking a fortune for it as well. Cor Blimey!

I know some Kiwi's who regularly house swap (almost annually). They have in the past swapped with my son (3 months) and on another occasion have been able to borrow a boat from us although we were unable to visit NZ. It always works out well for them but they do have the advantage of seeing/arranging a boat one season in readiness for the next. To my mind you are thinking along the right lines but do try to ensure that you manage to swap with a boat that has the kind of facilities that you will need if you plan to do something like a 3 month cruise. Get lots of info re the fit out and many pictures. The chances are that if you do settle on a particular boat, it may be known to a forum member and you could perhaps get into a dialogue and PM that person for more specific info. Good luck.