General Care
Salt or brackish water can be tough on electronics and rowing boat components in general. Care of XBoat components in salt or brackish conditions is similar to the usual care of tracks, seats, and metal fixtures on rowing shells. Rinse with fresh water and clean gently with a mild detergent (i.e. Simple Green) or a 1:4 ratio of white vinegar and water.
Make sure to rinse salt water off the XBoat Oarlocks and XPods after each row. Check the gasket on the inside of the XPod for damage or signs of wear at least every time the XPods are charged. Water should not enter the contact area around the pins and any evidence of water here may indicate gasket damage.
Specific Care of XPod-to-Oarlock Electrical Interface
- Make sure contacts are clean and dry.
- Apply a very thin film of silicone based dielectric grease (e.g., Dow Corning 4, Permatex Dielectric Grease) to the pogo pin contacts.
- Take care not to allow debris, dirt, or salt into the grease layer.
- Do not use automotive greases, marine lubricants, or household lubricants.
- Clean and reapply at least every time XPods need charging.
Care of the Angle Reference Screw
During installation and routine boat maintenance perform the following to prolong life:
- Remove and clean the Angle Reference screw.
- Apply a coat of dielectric grease to the screw threads and angle reference threads.
- Carefully re-insert the screw and torque normally.
- Wipe away excess grease, if any.