10 Boat Maintenance Tips Every Owner Should Know
Owning a boat is a lifetime commitment, from outboards to its deck and hull, everything requires proper attention and care.
Instead of waiting around till your engine fails you in the middle of an expedition, leaving you stranded, it is always advised to do periodic maintenance.
1. Routine run down
It is never too late to start inspecting your boat now and then or after a day out. Go through the deck and check for leaks or cracks on the flooring and surface to avoid flooding.
Inspect the hulls and trailer to avoid complications down the path. A smoother hull makes for a smoother ride.
2. Engine maintenance
Yes, some boaters boast about not changing their outboards since purchasing it, but no, leaving your chances to pure luck is never recommended when it comes to engine checks.
Be sure to service or upgrade if necessary every year for a great boating experience. Searching for mercury outboards for sale in Vancouver Island? Visit us at Port Alberni.
3. Fill up on the gas
This might seem trivial, but filling up your boat with the right type of gasoline is essential. Studies show that preferring gasoline with less than 10 percent of ethanol is better and safer for the engine.
In areas with high humidity, there are chances of oxidation and deterioration. Hence it is advised to fill the tank and stabilize it before stowing away in winter to avoid starting troubles.
4. Battery check
It’s alarming to note that majority of the SOS calls to the coast guard are due to battery problems. Check the battery level once in a while and fill in distilled water or change it if necessary.
5. Joints and connections
Electrical failures or loose connections can lead to severe accidents, including fire and explosions. Take good care during the maintenance works, the joints and connections should be oiled appropriately, welded, and insulated as per the instructions.
6. Flush the slush
Regardless of being a new or experienced boater, this is an easy feat. hold your outboard vertically, remove the lower oil drain hole plug and the upper oil level plug respectively, which will start the flow of gear case oil, do keep a container below the drain hole to avoid a mess.
7. Propellor probe
Inspecting for fishing lines or water weeds wound on the propellor is a good practice that saves you both physically and financially.
Apart from the obvious damage it could cause to the propellor and thereby the boat and it is also fuel-consuming to run the boat on a damaged propellor.
8. Oil level
Keep an eye on the oil level, look out for color change to milky or black, and don’t wait till it smells of smoke to get it tested.
3-4 times of oil change is highly recommended for an active boater.
9. Winterize away
Once the boating season is over, be sure to winterize your boat. Flush out, refuel and visit boat service center to get a decent storage space and an overall checkup regarding the condition of the boat.
10. Freshwater all the way
Try and give a good hose down with fresh water from time to time to avoid corrosion.
If your boat is exposed to salt water, or shallow water body with plantations, a thorough wash with freshwater is one way to keep it clean.
Conclusion
Just like any automobile, boats require timely maintenance and routine checkups. Let’s no longer be scared of breaking down in the middle of a journey. It is favorable to opt for a boat repair services in Vancouver Island to cut down the transportation cost.