November 19, 2020 0 Comments Auto

Everything to Know About Successful Boat Maintenance

There are many benefits of owning a boat, such as having the option to pack up and hit the water whenever you please or spend the day fishing without having to pay for a charter. Whatever you decide to use your boat for, one thing is certain: proper boat maintenance is needed.

To ensure your boat stays in good condition, you should create a boat maintenance checklist to follow. Not sure where to begin? 

In the guide below, there are a few boat maintenance tips you can keep in mind when creating your own checklist. Here’s what you need to know!

Conduct Regular Inspections

Because problems with your boat can arise at any time, it’s important to conduct regular inspections. How often should you inspect your boat? The answer to this varies. 

Some inspections should be done each time you take the boat out. Other inspections can be done less often, but should still be done on a regular basis. For example, each time you take the boat out, inspect the hull. 

If you see any damage, then this should be addressed before taking it out on the water. Inspecting the fluids, motor, wiring, pumps, and controls can be done once every season. 

Clean With Marine Products

When you clean your boat, make sure to only use marine-cleaning products. Keeping your boat cleaned will keep it in great condition for a longer amount of time, especially if you use the boat in saltwater. Using products not intended for boats, however, can damage the surface.

Marien-cleaning products are made specifically for boats and removing the type of bacteria and buildup that grows on them. You can even find marine products made for boats that are used in specific types of water. Otherwise, know exactly what type of surface you’re cleaning and what product does well on that surface.

Check the Batteries Often

Unfortunately, batteries can have issues even if you’re not using the boat often. You must check the batteries frequently to ensure no issues are present. The last thing you want is to become stuck on the open water with a faulty battery. 

Test the batteries with a voltage meter at least once every season. If the charge is running low, then you’ll want to replace the batteries at the beginning of the season. 

Prevent Engine Failure

Engine failure is another typical reason why boaters break down. You can begin your engine inspection by checking the oil level. Make sure the level isn’t low. 

You can also consider replacing or installing a filtration system for your engine as well. Discover more about the different options to ensure you make the right selection. 

You also want to inspect the lines and hoses for any signs of wear and tear. All fuel lines and clamps should be free of corrosion also. One last thing you can do is check the bolts and all other hardware to make sure nothing is loose. 

Proper Boat Maintenance Will Keep Your Boat Running Smoothly

If you want to keep your boat running smoothly without error, then you’ll want to conduct proper boat maintenance on a regular basis. Use the information given in the guide above to ensure you know exactly what to do and when to do it. 

Happy boating!

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