Caring for a boat is very similar to taking care of a car. Maintaining your boat shouldn’t be difficult, but it requires determination and perseverance. Similar to a car boats will require certain types of maintenance at certain milestones and after use.
Keep reading for a checklist for boat maintenance, simple suggestions for keeping your boat in good condition, and how to schedule to have a scheduled service.
Boat Maintenance Checklist
When you purchase a boat you should think about having a maintenance plan. Check your current expertise and capabilities. What types of services are you already able to do, and which are the services you should seek advice from a professional for?
In order to maintain your boat For maintenance on your boat, follow the following steps:
- Test your electronics
- Test your lights
- Make sure you check the levels of fluids such as power steering, and coolant
- Examine the battery’s charge
- Change the oil
- Check the propeller Inspect the tank for leaks, fuel lines, and engines for leaks, corrosion, or cracks
- Make sure the railing is secure
- Ensure you have all the necessary safety gear
- Check belts and engine components
- Check if you have all the Boston whaler parts that you might need for your boat
- Get your boat detailed
How to keep a boat in good shape boat
Wash and wax
One of the best methods to extend the life of your vessel is to keep the fiberglass hull clean and well-lubricated. The coating of fiberglass will become chalky if regularly waxed. It is also beneficial to strip off the previous wax prior to applying a new layer of wax. In contrast to cars, boats don’t have clear coats so the correct application of wax is essential to ensure the durability of your watercraft. Without a wax sealant, to ensure the safety of your boat, it can become oxidized and cost more to repair than have it properly waxed up on the front.
Cleaning your boat both inside and outside will avoid the build-up of mold. Mold can be a scourge and it’s best to wash your boat regularly rather than try to control the spread of mold. Beware of cleaning with harsh chemicals in your boat because they could reduce the coating of gel. A once- or twice-a-year cleaning once or twice a year will not only keep your boat looking amazing it will also ensure it’s operating properly.
Wipe Off Your Boat
After a wonderful day enjoying the ocean, grab a towel to dry your boat off. Moisture that is left on the boat can cause mold growth, mildew growth, corrosion, stains, and many other problems. Drying off any excess water will make your boat last longer. Lifejackets and ropes, towels water toys, as well as other items likely to be affected by moisture or retention, should be removed from the boat, dried off, and placed in dry storage containers after use.
Check Metal Parts for Corrosion
Any metal component that is exposed to the boat can corrosion and rust. Inspect the metal accessories regularly to look for signs of rust and dry them as often as you can. Your boat’s engine must be examined for corrosion. To avoid corrosion and many other engine problems it is recommended to flush your engine.
Check Your Propeller
Do not neglect to thoroughly inspect your propeller. There is a myriad of problems that can arise from your propeller. You must remove it frequently throughout the boating season and inspect it. It’s okay to have scratches or damaged paint, however, massive dents or evidence of damage should be taken care of by a professional. In the absence of professional help, it can cause loss of performance as well as increased fuel consumption. This is also a great opportunity to verify that your water intake is clear of debris.
An issue that is common is that the fishing line may end up being wrapped around your propeller. If this happens, you should ask your dealer to look over your gearcase to make sure there is no evidence of leaks. Service to your gearcase must be done by a knowledgeable professional. After inspecting the propeller, you should apply waterproof grease and reinstall it in the same order you removed it.