Old Swoffer analog knot meter

[banjoman]

Starduster has one. It does not work. Any chance on figuring out how to fix it and/or finding parts? We are (gasp) considering putting in a Raymarine digital deal for depth and speed but would really rather get the Swoffer working.

Our current depth sounder works but is in a tough location. It would be nice to have both on one screen.

[Roger Cumming]

At the risk of offending the traditionalists, I would install a GPS. It will give you more a accurate velocity reading (over the bottom) as well as a more accurate bearing. It draws very little current so you can leave it on all the time. Where currents are strong, steer by the GPS instead of the compass and forget about making allowance for current. You will have to have a separate depth finder or you can get the Raymarine display that will show both depth and GPS info. And if you mount the display in a way that it is visible from the helm, such as on a swivel in the companionway, it will be very useful in navigating.

I do not believe that one's navigation skill is diminished by having modern aids such as GPS aboard.

[banjoman]

I agree. We already have a handheld GPS that we use. The knotmeter is as much for the gee wiz factor as anything. We sail in San Francisco so currents are fast.

May sound funny but want a knot meter to give me something to do on an afternoon sail...sail tweaks etc..