Nevermore SOPs

This is a list of miscellaneous operational lore for Nevermore. For descriptive reference please see the Systems Descriptions

Engine

from a cold start, glow for 10 seconds before starting the engine. ^{[discuss glowing]}
from a cold start, let the engine idle for 5 minutes before revving it up.
from a warm start, or a "panic" start, don't take time to glow
-
the engine runs best (least wear, most efficiency) at around 2000 rpm. ^{[discuss starting]}
-
when starting the engine,
- assure that engine-kill pull-knob is pushed down
- be sure the engine is not in gear
- set throttle at least 1/4 way forward (1/4 per manual: TODO: need ref)
- when engine starts, pull throttle aft quickly to not race engine
- check over transom for cooling water coming out with exhaust
- don't crank engine more than 30 (?) seconds if it doesn't start, without closing raw cooling water thru-hull; open it when motor starts [TODO: need REF, need seconds]
before stopping engine if has just been run fast, let it idle a few minutes to equalize heat

There are two thru-hull valves for the head. one is to let seawater in (yellow handle), the other is to let sewage out (rusty wrench handle).
There is a valve with blue handle that determines whether sewage goes overboard or into the holding tank. The handle should be left in the position where the words "To Tank" can be read on the blue handle.
To check the level of the holding tank, visually inspect it. The holding tank is located on the port side of the v berth. Do not attempt to open/remove the clear plastic inspection portal. ^{[discuss holding tank]}

Batteries:
- NEVER have ALL batteries OFF when engine is running. Doing so will likely damage the alternator.
- Generally, have only one battery ON at a time, especially when engine is not running.
- It is ok to set upper battery switch to BOTH with engine running if both batteries are equally discharged.
Guppy:
- Use the guppy when the boat is at anchor, moored, or tied up at a slip or pier for more than a day or two.
- When the guppy is in the water, the guppy corrodes instead of the copper wires, thru-hull fittings, and other conductive hardware on the boat.
- What is the guppy? The guppy is a sacrificial zinc brick in the shape of a fish, at the end of a wire.

If you must remove a large volume of water from the freshwater tanks, do it through an inspection portal using a hand pump.