How To Take Care Of Your Boat Like A Pro

The care and maintenance of the boat are like taking care of the car. It’s not difficult to maintain your boat however, it does require commitment and consistency. Similar to a car the boat needs specific types of maintenance at certain points and after use.

Read on for a checklist for boat maintenance, simple advice for maintaining your boat, and the best way to schedule an appointment for service.

Boat Maintenance Checklist

If you decide to purchase a boat it is important to have an action plan for maintaining it. Review your current skills and knowledge. What kind of service are you already able to perform, and what services should you seek assistance from a professional for?

To maintain your boat You should follow these steps:

  • Check the battery’s charge
  • Test your electronics
  • Test your lights
  • Check the levels of fluids like power steering and coolant
  • Change the oil Inspect the propeller
  • Check the gas tank as well as the fuel lines and engines for corrosion, leaks or cracks
  • Make sure the railing is safe
  • Make sure you’ve got all the safety equipment you need
  • Check the belts and other engine components
  • Get your boat detailed

Simple ways to maintain a boat

Wash and wax

One of the most effective methods to extend the life of your vessel is to ensure that the fiberglass hull is in good condition and well-lubricated. The coating of fiberglass can become chalky if it is not regularly waxed. It is also helpful to remove the previous coating prior to applying a fresh layer of wax.

Like cars, boats do not have clear coats, so regular waxing is essential to the life expectancy of your boat. Without a wax sealant in place to protect your boat, it could rapidly deteriorate and cost more to fix than it would get it properly waxed up on the front.

Cleaning your boat outside and inside will help prevent the growth of mold. Mold can be a scourge and it’s best to wash your boat regularly than try to stop the spread of mold. Be cautious when cleaning with harsh chemicals in your boat since they could cause damage to the coating of the gel. Cleaning your boat at least once or twice per year is not just a way to keep your boat looking stunning and clean, but also to make sure that it’s running properly.

Wipe Off Your Boat

After a fun day out on the lake, take an old towel and clean your boat clean. Moisture that is left on the boat can cause the growth of mold, mildew, staining, corrosion, and many other problems. People tend to forget to wipe down inside of their boat, and because some of them use cheap parts, they tend to break faster. We would advise you to buy only the best quality things for your boat. Invest in stainless steel drawer slides, that will last you for many years, instead of just using some plastic ones that will crack in no time.

Drying off any excess water will make your boat last longer. Lifejackets, ropes, towels water toys, and other things that are susceptible to water or moisture retention must be removed from the boat, dried, and put in an air-tight storage container following use.

Check Metal Parts for Corrosion

Every metal part that is exposed on your boat can corrosion and rust. Make sure to check the metal parts regularly for signs of corrosion, and dry them as soon as you can. The engine of your boat should be inspected for signs of corrosion. To prevent corrosion and other issues with your engine it is recommended to clean your engine.

Regular Oil Changes

Find the manual to determine the frequency you should replace your engine. In general, it is recommended to change your oil every 100 hours of running. Quickly-lube shops for boats and watercraft aren’t actually available and you must bring your boat to an authorized specialist or a dealership with an authorized service center.

Check Your Propeller

Make sure you thoroughly check your propeller. Many issues could arise with your propeller, which is why you must remove it frequently throughout the boating season, and then inspect it. It’s okay to have scratches or damaged paint, however, any large dents or indications of impact must be dealt with by an expert. In the absence of professional help, it can cause a loss of performance and increased fuel consumption. It is also an excellent chance to make sure that your water intake is free of any debris.

The most frequent issue is that the fishing line may end up in the propeller. If this occurs it is recommended that you ask your dealer to examine the gearcase to ensure there are no leaks that have occurred. The servicing of your gearcase should be performed by a trained professional. After you have inspected your propeller, you must add waterproof grease, and then reinstall the propeller in the exact way you removed it.

Remove Your Battery in the Off-Season

Batteries don’t last for a long time, but you can extend the lifespan of your battery by taking it off it in the off-season when your boat is being stored away. Make sure it is clean, charged, and then store it in a location that isn’t easily affected by temperature fluctuations and the elements.

Taking A Boat in for Maintenance

It is recommended to bring your boat to the service center prior to the start of the season for boating and also for maintenance when circumstances arise, such as an unfinished prop or engine corrosion or the need for an oil replacement. If you take your boat to the shop for winterization, or spring service it is recommended to call prior to the time and make plans to arrive early.