The best way to avoid a breakdown or other malfunctions when you are out on the water is by caring for and maintaining your boat on a regular basis. After all, you do the same thing for your vehicle. So why not give your boat the same kind of TLC? Keeping this in mind, here are 5 important maintenance tips that will ensure your boat is ready for the water every time.
Remember to check your engine – this is especially true when boating season is about to begin and you have it dry-docked or in storage over the winter. However, you should always check your oil and change it along with the filters on a regular basis. All of this information should be in your owner’s manual as well as available online. When checking the oil level, be sure you check the transmission fluid level as well.
It’s important to check the engine cooling system as well – just as the cooling system on your vehicle needs to be regularly checked, so too does your boat’s engine cooling system. Your owner’s manual will provide information such as ensuring that the drain cocks are properly closed, how much fluid to put in the coolant reservoir, keeping the couplings on the coolant tubing tight, and so on.
Inspect all safety equipment – it’s imperative that everything is in good condition and working order, especially your safety equipment. If any fire extinguishers have expired, recharge or replace them. You should also check your first aid kit to see which items need to be replaced and replenished. Ensure that the amount of flotation devices and life jackets is sufficient. All emergency beverage and food provisions need to be fully stocked. Finally be sure that you test all on-board communication technologies and your GPS to ensure that they are working properly.
Examine your boat for damages and other problems – you should give your boat a thorough once-over every time you’re planning on taking it out on the water. Check for propeller damage as dents or nicks in the blades can place an additional strain on the motor and replace any blades that are damaged. Also, be sure to check the bilge pump and drain plug. If need be, you can talk with the technician down at your marina if you’re in doubt about anything.
Check your batteries before starting the engine – corrosion is a battery’s worst enemy. So be sure that you clean any that you see, especially if there is any that could possibly interfere with the connections. You should also make sure that all batteries are fully charged and secured in place.
On a closing note, you might want to review your boat insurance policy before the start of every boating season or the renewal date. Thus, you might like to check it now.