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This article summarizes the refit of Arawak, a 1996 Grand Banks 42, a project launched by the AIM Marine Group in 2013 under the My Boatworks program. The objective was a comprehensive, hands-on restoration with contributions from a range of manufacturers and specialists. After 15 years in charter service in the Virgin Islands and a period of neglect, Arawak required a full overhaul—from mechanical systems and propulsion to electrical, comfort, and cosmetic upgrades.
Once the vessel was cleaned and inspected, the refit addressed every major system. The work included new engines and transmissions, updated props, a fuel-polishing system, a fresh generator, a modern split air-conditioning system, new windows and hatches, a bow thruster, a windlass, underwater LED lighting and a complete electronics package. The aim was to bring the Grand Banks 42 back to reliable, efficient cruising condition while improving comfort, usability and onboard systems integration.
For boat owners planning a similar restoration, the real value of My Boatworks is the documentation and how-to material produced during the project. The refit was recorded in articles and original video segments featuring manufacturer experts and technicians, making it possible to learn step-by-step techniques and decision-making without starting from scratch. Visit myboatworks.pmyyachtclub.com to explore detailed refit articles and videos tailored to specific systems and upgrades.
Arawak is well on her way to being seaworthy and comfortable again. Below is a concise, system-by-system overview of the major components installed during the refit and the practical considerations that guided each choice.
1. Generator
Northern Lights 9kW M773LW3
Selecting the right generator begins with a trained technician assessing your electrical load, particularly when replacing multiple systems. Modern helm electronics and LED lighting often reduce power demand compared with older equipment, but the air-conditioning load usually determines generator size. A smaller, more efficient generator can free space and reduce installation complexity, yet technicians must inspect the engine room to plan water, exhaust and mounting connections. Up-to-date rubber mounts also help reduce noise and vibration.
Northern Lights, (800) 762-0165. northern-lights.com
2. Underwater LEDs
Aqualuma Gen III 3 Series
LED technology has made underwater lighting practical for smaller yachts because LEDs consume far less power and last much longer than halogen lamps. Aqualuma’s largest models draw only about 2 amps at 12 volts (1 amp at 24 volts), allowing for extended use without excessive battery drain. Their projected life span exceeds 50,000 hours, offering long-term reliability and low maintenance—ideal for night-time visibility and enhancing a vessel’s appearance at anchor.
Aqualuma, (954) 234-2512. aqualuma.com
3. Props
24 x 18 Michigan Wheel 3-blade
Repowering often requires rethinking propeller size and pitch. Arawak’s refit replaced older, lower-revving Caterpillar engines with modern, higher-revving Yanmar diesels. The difference in maximum rpm meant the gear ratios and prop selection had to change to match the new engines’ power curves. The team chose 24 x 18 Michigan Wheel three-blade props to suit the updated engines and replaced the original 28 x 22½ Stone Marine props, ensuring better performance and efficiency at wide-open throttle.
Michigan Wheel, (616) 452-6941. miwheel.com
4. Air conditioning
Split DX System — Technicold by Northern Lights
Choosing an air-conditioning manufacturer depends on service accessibility, construction quality and corrosion resistance. Technicold’s units were selected for their widespread service network along the East Coast and their stainless-steel construction, which extends to condensers, fasteners and drain pans—important for longevity in hot, humid engine-room environments. The system’s finish and warranties provided additional confidence in long-term durability.
Technicold, (800) 843-6140. technicold.com
5. Engines
Twin 220-hp Yanmar 6BY3 diesels
Repowering with modern high-speed diesels requires new engine beds, precise alignment for shafts and transmissions, and selection of adapters for electrical, cooling and control systems. Lighter engine weights can affect stability, so naval architecture considerations are part of the process. Matching props to the new engines and coordinating installations with experienced technicians were critical to achieving reliable, efficient propulsion.
Yanmar, (770) 877-9894. us.yanmar.com
6. Windows
Vetus Custom Made Comfort Series
New custom saloon windows from Vetus’ Comfort series were chosen for their concealed clamp profile and internal fastening method that leaves a clean exterior appearance. Available in fixed, sliding and hinged configurations with single or double glass options, these windows arrive ready to fit with seals and fastenings, reducing the need for sealant and delivering a tidy, contemporary finish.
Vetus-Maxwell, (410) 712-0740. vetus.com
7. Windlass
Maxwell HRC 10, Max Claw Anchor with chain stopper
The refit included a Maxwell horizontal rope/chain windlass and a swivel to prevent kinks when using an all-chain rode. A snubber was added to absorb shock and reduce anchor strain, improving safety and comfort at anchor. Properly chosen windlass components and rode configuration contribute meaningfully to safe anchoring practices.
Vetus-Maxwell, (410) 712-0740. vetus.com
8. Bow thruster
Vetus-Maxwell thruster with joystick control
Thruster sizing was calculated using Arawak’s dimensions, windage and new propulsion characteristics. Because a Glendinning joystick was part of the helm package, the team selected a larger thruster (10-inch, 160-kgf) to ensure sufficient authority against propeller torque. The installation included a dedicated 24V setup using two 12V batteries and a separate charger located under the forward berth for reliable maneuvering power.
Vetus-Maxwell, (410) 712-0740. vetus.com
9. Fuel polishing
ESI Total Fuel Management
The CFS1000FRE fuel-polishing unit installed on Arawak uses a Racor 1000MA filter to remove particulates down to 2 microns, separates 99.95% of free and emulsified water, and treats biological contaminants through a De-Bug L-1000 multimagnetic array. A high-flow continuous-duty pump circulates and agitates tank contents to ensure thorough cleaning of fuel in service—an essential step for reliable engine performance after long periods of storage or contamination.
ESI Total Fuel Management, (703) 263-7600. fuelmanagement.com
10. Electronics
Simrad networked system
The helm was upgraded with a Simrad network using NMEA 2000 and Ethernet to integrate GPS, sonar, radar, AIS, radios and multifunction displays on a single backbone. The system includes Broadband 4G FMCW radar, dual VHFs (fixed and wireless second station), SonarHub audio, NSS evo2 displays on both the pilothouse and flybridge, and optional Sirius Weather and GoFree Wi‑Fi connectivity for tablets—creating a modern, unified navigation and communications suite.
Simrad, (800) 324-1356. simrad-yachting.com
11. Paint
Interlux and Awlgrip products
Cosmetic restoration included fairing scratches and dings and careful hand-sanding of Arawak’s hull planking lines. Proper preparation—removing wax, sanding and applying the correct primer and topcoat—is essential for a lasting finish. Discuss product selection with your yard to match surface conditions and desired durability.
International Paint, (800) 468-7589. yachtpaint.com Awlgrip, (888) 355-3090. awlgrip.com
12. Satellite TV
Intellian Technologies i5 system
The Intellian i5 dome was chosen for its size and coverage, fitting the boat’s profile while offering reliable satellite-TV reception throughout typical cruising areas. The i5 uses an “All-Americas LNB,” eliminating the need to change LNBs by region. When installing satellite or radar equipment, maintain adequate separation to prevent heat and interference between the units.
Intellian Technologies, (949) 727-4498. intelliantech.com
13. Hatches
Vetus Magnus line
Replacing deck hatches is straightforward for a capable DIYer when the correct replacement is available. Vetus Magnus hatches were fitted on Arawak with proper bedding techniques. Mark mounting locations, tighten screws until sealant appears and inspect old bedding for leak evidence—if previous bedding has failed, a surveyor should check for water intrusion.
Vetus-Maxwell, (410) 712-0740. vetus.com
This article originally appeared in the June 2016 issue.