How To Look After Your Boat Like A Pro
Taking care of an aquatic vessel is very similar to caring for an automobile. Maintaining your boat shouldn’t be difficult however, it does require consistency and dedication. Similar to a car, a boat will need certain types of maintenance at certain points in time and at the end of each use.
Stay tuned for a comprehensive checklist for maintaining your boat, quick advice for maintaining your boat, and the best way to schedule the time for maintenance.
Boat Maintenance Checklist
If you are buying a boat you must think about having a maintenance plan. Be aware of your current skills and knowledge. What types of services do you know how to complete, and which services should you seek assistance from a professional for?
To maintain your boat For maintenance on your boat, follow the following steps:
- Test your electronics
- Test your lights
- Check your boat accessories
- Make sure you check the levels of fluids such as power steering, and coolant
- Change the oil
- Inspect the propellor
- Examine the gas tank or fuel lines as well as engines to check for corrosion, leaks, or cracks
- Verify that the railing is secured
- Ensure that you are wearing all the necessary safety gear
- Check belts and other engine components
- Examine the battery’s charge
- Get your boat detailed
Simple ways to maintain a boat
Wash and wax
One of the most effective methods to increase the efficiency of your vessel is to keep the fiberglass hull free of dirt and well-lubricated. The coating of gel on fiberglass becomes chalky if waxed on a regular basis. It is also helpful to wash off the previous layer prior to applying a new layer of wax. Unlike cars, boats lack clear coats, so regular waxing is critical to the durability of your boat. If you don’t have a wax sealant that can ensure the safety of your boat, it can get oxidized quickly and cost more to repair than get it properly waxed up on the front.
Cleaning your boat outside and inside will help prevent the growth of mold. Mold can be very sneaky, and it’s best to wash your boat frequently than attempt to stop the spread of mold. Be cautious about using harsh chemicals to clean your boat since they can ruin that gel layer. Detailing once or twice a year is not just a way to keep your boat looking great, but will also ensure it’s functioning properly.
Wipe Your Boat
After a successful day in the sea take a towel to dry your boat off. Moisture that is left on the boat can cause the growth of mold, mildew corrosion, staining, and other issues. Drying off any excess moisture can help your boat last longer. Lifejackets and ropes, towels water toys, and other things that are vulnerable to water or moisture retention should be taken off the boat, dried, and put into dry storage containers after use.
Check Metal Parts for Corrosion
Every metal part that is exposed on your boat may corrode and rust. Examine the metal components regularly for signs of corrosion, and dry them when you can. The engine of your boat should be examined for corrosion. To prevent corrosion as well as other engine issues you must regularly flush your engine.
Regular Oil Changes
Find the manual to determine how often you have to switch your oil. In general, it is recommended to change the oil about once every 100 hours. Quickly-lube facilities for boats and watercraft do not exist which is why you must visit an authorized specialist or a dealership with an authorized service center.
Check Your Propeller
Don’t skip checking thoroughly your propeller. Many problems can arise from the propeller, and you should take it off regularly during the boating season and inspect it. It’s normal to get scratches or missing paint, but any large dents or indications of impact should be addressed by an experienced professional. If not, it could cause a loss of performance and increased fuel consumption. This is also an excellent opportunity to determine if your water intake is free of any debris.
A frequent problem is that the fishing line may end up wrapping around the propeller. If this happens it is recommended that you ask the dealer to check the gearcase of your vehicle and make sure there is no evidence of leaks. Maintenance of the gearcase should be performed by a professional with experience. After inspecting your propeller, you should add water-proof grease and install the propeller in exactly the same manner you removed it.
Remove Your Battery in the Off-Season
Batteries do not last for eternity, but you can extend the life of your battery by removing it during the off-season, while the boat is stored. Take it apart, recharge it and store it in an area where it won’t be easily altered by temperature changes or the elements.
Taking A Boat in for Maintenance
You must bring your boat in for maintenance prior to the start of the season for boating and for maintenance when certain scenarios arise such as a dented prop corrosion in the engine or even an oil service. If you take your boat to the shop for winterization or spring cleaning you should make a call beforehand and plan to arrive early.