Behind PropelLog is the Danish sailor Mikkel Skovgaard, who is currently sailing his Beneteau Oceanis 361 in the Limfjord. He needed a straightforward digital overview for engine maintenance on board.His solution: a web app that runs directly in the browser – with no installation required and without the need for the App Store or Google Play. PropelLog is currently in the beta phase and is available free of charge in Danish and English. Skovgaard is now looking for testers from the sailing community to help further develop the application.
Database for maintenance intervals and spare parts
The first time you use the app, you select the engine and gearbox type. The app then already has maintenance intervals stored for many common models – including the manufacturers’ spare part numbers. For example, the system knows the correct oil filter, the required oil quantity and which oil is recommended. Part numbers for impellers, fuel filters and V-belts are also supposed to be stored. In our spot check, however, these specifications did not yet work reliably in all cases. For instance, despite selecting a Yanmar Saildrive, the standard reverse gearbox was displayed. This is not unusual for a beta version, though. Furthermore, all entries can be edited and adapted to your own engine. For example, if you use different oil filters or wish to follow different service intervals, you can override the default settings. In addition, completely new service entries can be created. As well as standard maintenance tasks such as oil changes, coolant checks or zinc anode inspections, you can also record specific tasks – such as adjusting valve clearance with the corresponding target values. These custom entries then appear on an equal footing in the overview and are automatically scheduled based on operating hours or time.
Two machines? No problem
PropelLog doesn’t just monitor the main engine. If there is a generator or outboard motor on board, both can be set up as separate units. Each engine is assigned its own maintenance overview, a separate logbook and an individual spare parts list. This ensures that the maintenance of all engines on board remains clear and under control at a glance.
All maintenance work carried out can be documented in a digital logbook. Checklists can be created for recurring tasks, which can be accessed directly on a smartphone whilst in the engine compartment. The app automatically generates an overview of upcoming maintenance tasks – based on time and operating hours. This helps to prevent forgotten oil changes or overdue filter replacements.
The app also offers a spare parts inventory management system. This allows you to keep track of which parts are on board and when they need to be reordered.
Works both online and offline
A key advantage is that it works entirely offline. PropelLog operates without an internet connection. The data is stored locally on your own device. However, if you want to use the app on different devices, you can also synchronise the data via the cloud. To do this, you can simply generate a QR code and the information can be exchanged between your smartphone, tablet and PC.
PropelLog deliberately avoids typical app features. There is no login and no user account. It also does not feature subscriptions or adverts – the app is completely free.
Technical PropelLog is a Progressive Web App (PWA) that runs directly in the browser. Once you’ve opened it for the first time, you can save it as an icon on your home screen, and it will then behave like a native app – without needing to be installed via the App Store or Google Play.
You can try out the beta version of PropelLog here. Developer Mikkel Skovgaard is looking for Facebook Feedback from sailors and motorboat owners to help further develop the digital engine maintenance solution.
Technical Specifications
PropelLog
Platform:
- Progressive Web App (PWA)
- Runs in the browser (no installation required)
- Can be pinned to the home screen (iOS/Android)
Features:
- Selection of engine and gearbox types
- Automatic service intervals (time/operating hours)
- Pre-set maintenance intervals for common engine models (editable)
- Spare parts database (part numbers, oil quantities, specifications)
- Creating your own service entries
- Management of multiple engines (main engine, generator, etc.)
- Digital maintenance logbook
- Checklists for the engine compartment
- Spare Parts Stock Management
- QR code synchronisation between devices
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Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor