Perko Inc

Perko® -Longtime Hardware Supplier for Florida’s Stone Crab Fleet

It’s Stone Crab Season, October 15th, through May 15th 2024, and the South Florida treat can be caught throughout Florida waters, during which time residents and tourists alike can enjoy the unique and delicious taste of stone crab claws at local restaurants.

Forty percent of Florida’s stone crabs come from the Florida Keys, and the crabs go straight from the boat to the restaurants and markets.

The boats, which tend to be open, easy to clean, commercial workboats, often push away from the docks at 3:00 am, and return closer to 6:00 pm. It’s a long day, but that’s what is required to catch the crabs, and bring them in so they can get cooked within hours of being pulled from the traps. Typically, one (1) claw is removed from the crab, then the crab is thrown back. Leaving the one claw allows the crab to defend itself if needed, once reintroduced into the water.

Like any workboat properly setup, many of the vessels rely on Perko navigation lights, underwater hardware and strainers, or many of the other items found in the Perko catalog.

Stone Crabs, like Perko…a South Florida tradition continues…

Perko…always Made in the USA.

Perko® – GENERAL-COMMERCIAL-EMISSIONS Catalogs

A catalog for everyone…while Perko’s website is the best up-to-date reference for our customers, our marine service providers, and distributors, we still get a lot of requests for current catalogs.

Perko offers three (3) current Catalogs:

General – A wide selection of lighting solutions, underwater hardware, general hardware for above and below decks.

Commercial – A collection of heavy-duty products including navigation lights, hardware, and items geared toward the commercial marine and workboat industry.

Emissions Catalog – A collection of EPA emission products, systems, fuel tank components and related items. The selection includes fuel vent vales, fuel inlet check valves, assorted fuel caps and fills, as well as EPA compliant v***r recovery canisters.

So whatever item you, your fleet manager, or your service technician needs, it can be easily reviewed and selected through our comprehensive catalogs.

Download our Perko General, Commercial, or Emissions Catalogs at https://www.perko.com/catalog_downloads/

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What's a FESTOON…and how to select the right replacement bulb?

Festoon bulbs are a type of miniature bulb, the name defines a bulb as that having a cylindrical shape with the light-emitting element between two contacts at opposite ends. The contacts or end caps can be cone-shaped, flat (fuse style), or dimpled, depending on the type of socket it is meant to fit.

Perko understands there may be many options and choices in selecting the correct replacement bulb. It is highly recommended you replace your bulb with a Perko replacement bulb, as we certify our bulbs to meet all respective navigation light rules and regulations. Sometimes you may find a less expensive bulb online or elsewhere…the risk is that it will not meet the distance rating required…and so if used, you then have a navigation light out of compliance. Not a good situation should an accident and investigation occur.

Be safe…always use a Perko® genuine replacement bulb.

For more information see: https://www.perko.com/help_guides-bulb_selection_guide/

Perko®…Made Right…Right here in the USA!

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Perko® on Display at the Lake Tahoe Concours d'Elegance

The California Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society (ACBS) held their Annual Concours d’Elegance last month, and our staff had the pleasure of attending the show on the beautiful shores of Lake Tahoe.

Perko products from “yesteryear” were found on a large number of vessels, including this classic siren. You never know what you may find on these meticulously restored vessels.

As cited on their webpage, this exhibition of boating and maritime tradition is unsurpassed, the Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance is the most acclaimed and prestigious wooden boat show in all of North America. Each year the show features more than 70 of the world’s finest boats set against the backdrop of the deep clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe.

This year, the 2023 Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance Marque Class celebrated boats of the 60s! Fins, hardtops, American V8 engines… modern Atomic Age styling were all on prominent display in the Obexer’s marina this year. 1960s Italian Riva boats made an appearance as well.

Great to be a part of maritime history.

Perko…always Made in the USA.

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Perko® – Lighting the way at Avalon Harbor, Catalina

You are moored just 200 feet away from downtown Avalon, the sun has set, and it’s time to head for a nice meal at your favorite restaurant on Catalina. Your Zodiac awaits, the latest Perko C-5 All-Round navigation light illuminates the seating area for you and your guests. You tie up to the pier, arriving in style.

This is boating in California, this is Avalon…this is Perko®.

Upgrade and replace your older “globe style” all-round light today, and see the difference.

See Perko's new 1444 All-Round Light - https://www.perko.com/catalog/navigation_lights_under_20_meters/1183/white_all-round_led_light/

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Perko® – Happy 4th of July

As we celebrate Independence Day 2023, let’s enjoy the company of our families, neighbors, friends, coworkers and communities that make this country great.

…from all of us at Perko, have a fun, safe and enjoyable holiday.

Happy 4th of July!

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Throwback Thursday – 1951 Perko Stove on a Chris Craft 34’ Commander

The Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society (ACBS) held their 35th Annual Antique & Classic Boat Festival this past Father’s Day weekend, and our staff had the pleasure of attending the show on the beautiful grounds of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM). It is the largest antique and classic boat show in the Mid-Atlantic.

Upon boarding the beautiful, fully restored, ARGONAUT, a Chris Craft 34’ Commander model on display in the water, you step down into the galley, revealing an original Perko alcohol burning stove.

According to Perko’s 1950 Catalog, stove specs were listed:
- For use with propane or butane LP gas
- 2 burners – Monel Metal Stove Body
- Dual simmer and high-speed cooking burners
- Listed as Figure # 373

Perko®…While the stove was discontinued…select quality parts, may still be available.

Perko…Always Made in the USA.

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Understanding Underwater Hardware Pipe Thread Styles

Pipe threads for underwater marine hardware have very different threads, let’s take a look at the differences.

Straight pipe threads are used where connections are purely mechanical and/or bedding compounds are generally used. The intake side of all seacocks, thru-hulls and scuppers with hose barbs, and all flanged lock nuts use straight threads.

Tapered pipe threads are used where connections must also be watertight. The output side of seacocks, in-line valves, hose adapters, drain plugs, raw water and pump strainers use tapered threads.

On all other thru-hulls, scuppers and intake strainers we use a unique combination pipe thread. The first few threads are tapered. The rest remain straight threads. This approach allows the same thru-hull to seal when coupled with an in-line valve or to engage at various depths when connected to a seacock.

Still got questions? Send an email to [email protected]

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Perko® – A Blue light on a Yacht?

Hmmm…a blue light on a yacht? What is this thing…and why does the lens look like a beehive?

This is known as a 'Meal and Absent' light. It was typically bolted on the yardarms of yachts. The white light was to signal to other boats that the crew was taking a meal, and the blue light was to signal that the owner (as opposed to the Captain) was NOT aboard.

These lights were/are used on “fully crewed” yachts. The lights inform the other “Yacht Guys” that “the owner is not aboard so don't come to visit the owner now", or that "the crew is eating now, so they will not be available to greet or assist with boarding/drinks/etc.".

The BEEHIVE lens gets it’s appearance due to the size and Fresnel lens features to maximize light output. Interesting enough, Perko still uses a glass lens for this product, and the design of the lens originated in the 1930s from a glass company.

Large yachts are often in charter service when the owner is not using his yacht, so the "owner absent light" historically told people approaching the yacht that the owner is unavailable. It is also common for the crew to move/transit the yacht without the owner present, such as moving the yacht in the Caribbean from say St. Barts to St. Lucia. The owner of the respective yacht may then fly in to meet the vessel once in port. Not a bad way to travel…

Still manufactured and Figure 329 in the Perko catalog, maybe it’s time for today’s modern yachts to once again start installing these symbols of status and tradition. View specs and information: https://www.perko.com/catalog/navigation_lights_under_20_meters/282/meal_and_absent_light/

Available as a special order item through West Marine, Land & Sea, and other Perko authorized resellers.

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Perko® – “Safety Scuttlebutt” - Marine Electrical Systems

On January 31, 1977 the U.S.C.G. Published Safety Standards for Marine Electrical Systems.

These Standards Cover Such Technical Details As:
• Batteries and Associated Conductors
• Conductor Size and Ampacity
• Strain Relief and Pull Tests
• Termination Requirements
• Overcurrent Protection
• Ignition Protection
• Grounding
• Insulation

A particular electrical component may be affected by some, or perhaps all of the above categories. Those categories related to product design have generally been complied with, however, many additional details must be considered by the installer of the equipment as well in order to achieve compliance with the USCG standard.

It is suggested that the actual installer be familiarized with the standards when installing equipment. Perhaps one of the most critical requirements is ignition protection. A product that is marked "Ignition Protected" may be used in that specific area of a boat that is not isolated from a gasoline fuel v***r source.

Refer to the actual standard for a determination of what parts of a boat require “Ignition Protected” products. If a product is not plainly marked "Ignition Protected" then assume it is not.

For more info on the USCG regs regarding electrical items see:https://www.perko.com/images/help/boatbuilders_handbook_2003_electrical_standards.pdf

PERKO®…Made Right…Right here in the USA!

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Perko® – Quality Fishing Rod Holders

Over the years Perko hardware, lights and marine equipment have been the choice of both successful amateur, and professional fishermen equipping their boats worldwide.

As equipment manufacturers, we strive to take into account whatever “Mother Nature” …and the fish for that matter, can throw at you.

Perko Rod Holders are designed for longevity, and safety, as well as performance. For instance did you know Perko rod holders have an integrated cap to close off the top of the unit? That may not seem like much, but if you ever heard any stories of “helpful guests” placing a fuel pump nozzle in a rod holder…this feature makes a lot of sense.

For more information see:https://www.perko.com/images/catalog/catalog_320_pdf/R-179.pdf

Photo courtesy of the F/V “All In” out of Marina Del Rey, CA.

In the meantime…Tight Lines.

PERKO®…Made Right…Right here in the USA!

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Throwback Thursday – 1873 Alligator Reef Lighthouse

Perko has long been known by it’s brand identity and logo using lighthouses in its imagery, so from time to time we like to look back at a particular lighthouse and explore its history and character.

This time we look at a popular lighthouse in the Florida Keys, Alligator Reef Lighthouse. According to Wikipedia, the station was established in 1873, it is located 4 nautical miles east of Indian Key, near the Matecumbe Keys, and north of Alligator Reef itself.

It was automated in 1963 and was last operational in July, 2014, and is being replaced by a 16' steel structure with a less powerful light located adjacent to it. The structure is an iron pile skeleton with a platform. The light is 136 feet (41 m) above the water. It is a white octagonal pyramid skeleton framework on black pile foundation, enclosing a square dwelling and a stair-cylinder. The lantern is black. The original lens was a first order bivalve Fresnel lens. It had a nominal range of 14 nautical miles in the white sectors and 11 nautical miles (20 km; 13 mi) in the red sectors (flashes). The new light has a range of approximately 7 nautical miles.

The name honors the U.S. Navy schooner Alligator, part of the U.S. Navy Anti-Piracy Squadron that had recently been established in Key West, which went aground at this location sometime in 1822 -1825, while on a mission against pirates of the coast of Islamorada, and sank in shallow water. To prevent the 86 foot long ship from being salvaged by the pirates, the crew blew her up and she landed in two pieces on the ocean floor. This was the beginning of the great coral reef that is now home to over 500 species of marine life. Countless vessels have also sunk here on the reef's jagged coral.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011, and by the way…a popular snorkel and dive spot. Perko’s American success story…in sync with the rich history of the Miami and the Florida Keys.

Perko®…quality parts, delivered by US tradesmen…always Made in the USA.

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Throwback Thursday – 1960’s Sunshine State Industrial Park Arch

Perko established it current headquarters in 1960, in a prime location for industry named the Sunshine State Industrial Park. Locals and visitors alike are often intrigued by the massive arch at the entrance of this area of Miami, where the arch still stands just a block or so from Perko’s offices.

We did a little digging...and according to Wikipedia, the Sunshine State Arch is now a national historic site. Located at the intersection between NW 13th Ave. and NW 167th St., it marks the entrance to the Sunshine State Industrial Park (Sunshine State International Park, Inc.) in Miami Gardens, Florida.

It was inspired by the monumental Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Interesting still, the Sunshine State Arch was finished in 1964, three (3) years before the Gateway Arch in St. Louis was completed. It was designed by Walter C. Harry.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2014. Perko’s American success story is even exemplified by the rich history of the Miami itself, and an arch that is all too familiar to those from St. Louis, Missouri.

Perko®…quality parts, delivered by US tradesmen…always Made in the USA.

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Perko® – Supplier of Many Industries

Since 1907, Perko has been serving the USA industrial and manufacturing segments spanning a multitude of categories. It’s easy to forget, that Perko’s reputation for quality parts, durability and innovation carries over into many industries…not just marine vessel builders or components.

Did you know Perko is a major supplier of parts for a number of specialized vehicle builders, industrial equipment providers, and other USA manufactured goods?

Pictured is a “Superliner Ambulance”, a state of the art emergency vehicle that utilizes ventilation cowlings supplied by Perko. Perko…quality products designed for durability to survive in the toughest environments.

PERKO®…Made Right…Right here in the USA!

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Throwback Thursday - Perko Bronze Factory Circa 1965

Once settled in Florida, Perko established it’s own bronze factory.

By 1965, a 47,000 square foot extension was completed, housing the sophisticated die-casting system that today produces zinc,
bronze and aluminum products.

It’s the early 60’s and PERKO is the only domestic, marine manufacturer producing die-cast bronze parts, well known for strength, uniformity and quality.

Perko®…quality parts, delivered by US tradesmen…always Made in the USA.

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The Fog Bell

Never heard of fog bells? They came before foghorns. Like foghorns, bells were used in foggy conditions to warn of navigational hazards such as rocky coastlines or shoals. They were installed along with lighthouses on land and on lightships (they serve as lighthouses in water that is too deep for lighthouse construction).

They were also used on seagoing ships to avoid collisions with other ships during fog. Bells were used in the United States (Beavertail, Rhode Island) as early as 1829 until it was recognized that the lower frequency sound from foghorns traveled longer distances in foggy conditions than the sound from bells. Foghorns came in to common use about 1900; fog bells served as backups to foghorns for a while but were phased out completely by about 1920.

Perko continues to manufacturer quality Fog Bells today, although most bells today are purchased to be used in a “dual service” of functionality and/or decorative capacity. Often they serve as great gifts for retiring captains, crew, and maritime executives.

Throwback Thursday – 1935…Perko had Binnacles for sale.

Circa 1935, Perko was “The Worlds Largest Manufacturer of it’s Kind!”.

That’s what this ad cited which was found in a 1935 issue of “Pacific Motor Boat”…and we even had BINNACLES for sale. Great, …but what’s a Binnacle?

Well the dictionary defines it as a box or stand containing a ship's compass and a lamp. The name stems from an alteration of Middle English bitakle, from Old Portuguese or Old Spanish; Old Portuguese bitácola & Old Spanish bitácula, from Latin habitaculum …or dwelling place. Now that we got that out of the way.

If you were a passionate boater years ago, then you would know the importance of having a high-quality binnacle on your boat. A binnacle is a critical piece of equipment that holds your compass, as well as other important navigational instruments. With a well-designed and durable binnacle, you can confidently navigate the seas without worrying about the reliability of your instruments.

Perko binnacles were made from the highest-quality materials and designed to withstand even the harshest marine environments. We use only the best marine-grade materials to ensure that our binnacle would last for years to come. It was designed to hold your compass securely and protect it from damage due to waves or other weather conditions where the helm was subject to weather.

Perko®…quality and craftsmanship, delivered by US tradesmen…and it’s still the case today.

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May is Navigation Light Safety Month

Perko considers May “Navigation Light Safety Month”.

Annual inspection of marine navigation lights is essential to ensure that they are functioning correctly and meet regulatory requirements. Here are some steps to follow for inspecting marine navigation lights annually:

1. Review regulatory requirements: Before inspecting the navigation lights, review the regulations that apply to the vessel. These regulations will specify the type and placement of navigation lights required for the vessel's size and intended use.

2. Check for physical damage: Inspect the navigation lights for any physical damage, such as cracks or dents, which can affect their performance. Pay particular attention to the lenses, as they can become cloudy or discolored over time, reducing the light output.

3. Test the bulbs, if incandescent: Check that all bulbs are functioning correctly by testing them one by one. Replace any bulbs that are not working or are dim. LED's typically do not burn out, so if LED light is defective, you need to replace the entire unit.

4. Inspect the wiring: Check the wiring connecting the navigation lights to the power source. Look for signs of corrosion, fraying, or damage. Corroded or damaged wiring can cause the lights to malfunction, so replace any wiring that is in poor condition.

5. Document the inspection: Record the results of the inspection, including any repairs or replacements made, and the light output measurements. Keep this record on board as proof of compliance with regulations and as a reference for future inspections.

6. Schedule regular maintenance: Regular maintenance of the navigation lights is important to ensure they continue to function correctly. Set a schedule for regular cleaning, bulb replacement, and wiring checks to keep the lights in good working order, Perko recommends an annual interval, so May is a great choice.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the marine navigation lights are working correctly, meet regulatory requirements, and your vessel is safe to use.

Need additional guidance, contact Perko at: [email protected]

PERKO®…Made Right…Right here in the USA!

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Throwback Thursday – Perko Major Marine Trade Shows - Circa 1940s

Perko was not only an innovator in design and manufacturing of marine components, but of marketing those products as well.

Perko was often seen presenting an exhibition booth at major marine trade shows, fully staffed with both technical and sales personnel. These exhibits were an important tool to familiarize the customer with “cutting edge” systems and technology. The Miami International Boat Show was one of those venues, and is now one of the largest boat shows in the world, had it beginnings in the 1940s.

In 1941, a group of Miami-based marine industry leaders organized a small event called the "Miami National Regatta" to showcase their boats and products. The event took place in Biscayne Bay and attracted a few thousand visitors.

However, the event was put on hold during World War II. It wasn't until 1946 that the boat show was revived, now called the "Miami International Boat Show." The event was held at the Miami Beach Auditorium and drew over 14,000 attendees.

Over the next few years, the show grew in popularity and size. In 1949, the show moved to the Miami Marine Stadium on Virginia Key, which had just been built. The new location allowed for larger boats to be displayed and provided a better experience for attendees.

By the end of the 1940s, the Miami International Boat Show had become a significant event in the marine industry, drawing exhibitors and visitors from all over the world. It set the stage for the show's continued growth and success in the following decades, and propelled companies like Perko with direct engagement with both the beginning boater, to expert yachtsmen.

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Choosing the right Navigation Light (65.6 Ft & Under)

Look for the “Mark"
All U.S. registered vessels are subject to either the ’72 COLREGS or the U.S. inland rules. Effective 11/1/03, lights must meet one of 2 types of certifications depending providing the vessel is less than 20 meters (65.6 Ft) and the date it was manufactured. U.S. requirements for smaller vessels are less strict and they differ depending on when the boat was built.

Small Boats Built After 11/1/03
The only recognized means of certification of lights for these boats is the USCG approval system. This system uses independent, 3rd party USCG approved labs to conduct some of the tests required for the A-16 certification. On all USCG approved lights, the permanent marking USCG 1nm, USCG 2nm, or USCG 3nm (depending on whether the light is a 1-mile, 2-mile, or 3-mile light) must be visible when the light is installed. Note that certifications may vary with voltage (e.g. USCG approved for 12-volt and A-16 certified for 24-volt).

Small Boats Built Before 11/1/03
Lights for these boats must be manufactured in accordance with the American Boat and Yacht Council (A.B.Y.C.) Standard A-16. The primary means of certification recognized in the United States for lights for these boats is through the National Marine Manufacturers’ Association (NMMA) certification procedure. USCG approved lights, as described below, are also approved for these applications. All PERKO small boat lights designed for use on boats built before 11/1/03 are certified under this NMMA Certification Procedure. All lights certified under this procedure are required to permanently carry the mark "A-16" visibly displayed when the light is installed.

For More information see: https://www.perko.com/help_guides-navigation_light_guidance/

PERKO®…Made Right…Right here in the USA!

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Throwback Thursday – Perko Metal Stamping Circa 1940s

It is the 1940s/early 1950s…Perko’s metal stamping department is well staffed and churning out high quality parts for our customers. The machines are rated for a certain capacity (tonnage), and the machine is selected based on the material, part being stamped, part complexity, geometry or depth, as well as metal thickness.

Metal stamping is a manufacturing process used to create a wide variety of metal parts and components. It involves using a metal stamping press to apply pressure to a sheet of metal, which is then shaped into the desired form using a series of dies and punches. Even at that time, Perko’s decision to make all tooling for Perko parts in house was successful in ensuring excellent productivity, and excellent quality. The process is used to create everything from simple washers and brackets to complex parts and components.

The metal stamping process begins with the creation of a tool or die, which is used to shape the metal into the desired form. The tool is typically made of hardened steel and is designed to withstand the high pressure and forces involved in the stamping
process. The metal sheet is then placed in the stamping press and secured in place using clamps or other fixtures. The stamping press is operated by a skilled worker who carefully controls the pressure and timing of the stamping process.
The metal sheet is fed through the press, and the dies and punches apply pressure to the sheet to shape it into the desired form. Depending on the complexity of the part being stamped, multiple passes through the press may be necessary. Once the metal has been shaped, the finished part is removed from the stamping press and inspected for quality. Any excess metal or burrs are removed, and the part may undergo additional finishing processes such as painting, plating, or polishing.

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What Globe Should Be Selected For A Pole light?

Select a Globe Style

Select a white all-round “Full Output” globe to allow for full cockpit illumination. Choose from traditional or modern styles.

White all-round reduced glare globes may help preserve night vision while under way. Choose from top “coastal” or “inland” styles.

Bi-Color lights are used on the bow instead of fixed surface mounted port & starboard lights. Choose from models with or without an integral white utility light.

Want a sleek modern all-round pole-light to replace your current or lost assembly? Be sure to check out our new 1444 series lights meeting all the new ABYC C-5 compliance regulations. www.perko.com

For More information see: https://www.perko.com/help_guides-choosing_a_replacement_pole_light/

PERKO®…Made Right…Right here in the USA!

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