Mine was this. Not so much the Lexan panel but a season with no alternator belt problems. Improved alignment and a better belt were important. Another trick I learned on the sister forums here was to simply wire a toggle switch into the Temp sensor terminals on my external regulator. When batteries were really dragged down, closing the switch cut the alternators output by 50%. A good option if I had a few hours of motoring ahead. Best of all, I'm still on the same belt and it looks like new.

I put the alternator to the test this year burning about 150 gallons of diesel so far this season. Anytime I "go" anywhere, even for just a couple of weeks in a season, I at least double fuel consumption.

The new engine panels I built with a Lexan panel behind let me keep an eye on belt wear and dusting easily, anytime underway. Better still with some very long engine runs(30 hours across the Gulf of Maine), it allowed me with a flashlight to inspect for coolant or oil leaks, pressure water leaks, inspect wiring, even look under the engine for bilge level checks. I'm constantly keeping an eye on things like that so now it's even easier with no panels to remove.

What was your best improvement on your boat this year?