A Few Tips On How To Take Care Of Your Boat Like A Pro

Taking care of a boat is very like taking care of a car. The maintenance of your boat isn’t too difficult but it takes perseverance and commitment. Just like a car boat, boats require certain types of maintenance at certain points and after use.

Stay tuned for a comprehensive checklist for maintenance on your boat, easy guidelines for maintenance of your boat, and the best way to schedule an appointment for service.

Boat Maintenance Checklist

When you buy a boat You should think about having a plan of maintenance. Make a list of your existing capabilities and knowledge. What kinds of services can you currently know how to do, and which are the services you should seek advice from a professional for?

If you want to keep your boat in good condition it is important to:

  • Test your electronics
  • Test your lights
  • Examine the battery’s charge
  • Check for fluid levels such as power steering, and coolant
  • Change the oil
  • Check the propeller
  • Examine the gas tank or fuel lines as well as engines for signs of corrosion, leaks, or cracks
  • Check that the railings are safe
  • Ensure you have all the safety equipment you need.
  • Check belts and engine components
  • Get your boat detailed

Simple ways to maintain a boat

Wash and wax

One of the most efficient methods to increase the efficiency of your vessel is to keep the fiberglass hull fresh and well-lubricated. The gel coating that covers fiberglass is chalky when it’s not regularly waxed. It is also helpful to strip off the previous wax prior to applying a new layer of wax. As with cars, boats don’t have clear coats so correct waxing is critical to the longevity of your watercraft.

Without a wax sealant, to protect the boat it will be prone to oxidation and will cost more to fix than it would be properly waxed up at the beginning. Cleaning your boat inside and out will prevent the accumulation of mold. Mold can be a scourge and it’s better to clean your boat regularly than try to contain the spread of mold. Be cautious when cleaning with harsh chemicals in your boat since they could reduce your gel coat. Regularly cleaning your boat once or twice each year will not only keep your boat looking gorgeous, however, but it can also guarantee it’s functioning properly.

Wipe Off Your Boat

After a great day on the water, grab some towels and scrub your boat off. The lingering moisture could cause the growth of mold, mildew corrosion, stains, and other issues. Drying off any excess moisture can help your boat last longer. If you went fishing and you used your fish cleaning table, make sure you wipe it completely clean after you are done using it. Lifejackets, ropes, towels, water toys, and other objects that are susceptible to water or moisture retention must be removed from the vessel, dried off, and placed in dry storage containers after use.

Check Metal Parts for Corrosion

Any exposed metal piece of your boat may cause corrosion and rust. Make sure to check the metal parts regularly to look for signs of rust and dry them whenever you are able to. The engine on your boat must also be inspected for signs of corrosion. To prevent corrosion as well as other issues with your engine It is important to regularly flush your engine.

Regular Oil Changes

Find the manual to determine how often you have to replace your engine. Generally, you should change the oil about every hundred running hours. Fast-lube shops for boats as well as watercraft don’t really exist which is why you must make sure you take your boat to an expert who is certified or a dealer with an authorized service center.

Check Your Propeller

Never skip thoroughly checking your propeller. A whole mess of issues can come up with your propeller. Therefore, you need to remove it often throughout the season of boating and check it. It’s acceptable to have scratched or missing paint, but significant dents or signs of impact need to be addressed by an experienced professional. Otherwise, it could result in a decrease in performance and higher consumption of fuel.

This is also an excellent occasion to ensure that your water intake is clean of any obstructions. A frequent problem is that fishing lines can get wrapped around your propeller. If this occurs then you must ask the dealership to examine the gearcase of your vehicle and make sure there aren’t any leaks.

Servicing your gearcase is best performed by a professional with experience. After examining your propeller you must add waterproof grease, and then reinstall the propeller in exactly the same manner you removed it.

Remove Your Battery in the Off-Season

Batteries will not last for eternity, but you can extend the life of your battery by dismantling it in the off-season when the boat is stored. Clean it, charge it and then store it in a place where it won’t be easily affected by temperature fluctuations and the elements.

Taking A Boat in for Maintenance

The boat should be brought to be serviced prior to the start of the season for boating as well as for maintenance when scenarios arise such as a dented prop or engine that is corroding or an oil exchange. When you take your boat in for winterization or spring maintenance, you should call in advance and make an appointment to arrive earlier.