Caring for your boat is no different from an automobile or home. Like the laws of nature, the standard routine check-up for properties is constant. It would help if you had a checklist to ensure the boat is pristine and functional. The alternative will be to leave the work to the professionals if you feel you lack the capacity and wherewithal to care for your prized possession properly. The modern-day boat (aluminum or fiberglass) has few boxes to tick because of the upgraded standards, unlike their predecessors (wooden boats) that were archaic and required a host of checks.
The efficiency of a marine vessel depends on the functioning of its propulsion systems; gearbox reduction system, propulsion shaft, main engine, and bearings. A good gearbox is the soul of a vessel’s propulsion system, and a destroyed one can be detrimental to a boat’s capacity. When installed by a pro, used marine gearboxes can correct engine failure and control a boat’s downtime.
Here is a Technical Checklist
- Boat topside and hull (bottom)
- Plumbing and HVAC SYSTEMS
- Engine
- Moving parts (zippers, tracks, hinges)
- Electrical systems
The first component of boat maintenance is cleanliness: waxing, dusting, and washing. Cultivating a culture of regularly dusting the boat to remove piled-up dust, lubricating parts, washing off the chalky remnants of oxidation sitting on fiberglass, and general cleaning will alleviate the pain of leakages and expensive “housekeeping.” Flushing the engine is probably one of the essential aspects of maintenance after a day in salty water.
Cleaning the engine ensures that you remove contaminants, crystallized salt, sticky sludge, and loosen rings or valves. Before venturing into open water, you must do a routine physical inspection to confirm that everything is in perfect condition. Repair any dysfunctional elements or seek professional help. The pros will do an impeccable job with maintenance aspects such as lubricant fitting, hull painting, or trailer maintenance.
Now that the technical component is out of the way, let’s dig into essential boat maintenance tips.
1. Store your Boat Properly
Properly storing your boat, especially during winter or periods of inactivity, assists in protecting it against adverse weather damage such as ice and snow while avoiding mildew buildup. Storage options include:
Indoor- This type of option safeguards the boat against rain and the sun. The commonplace idea is storing it in the garage.
Outdoor- This storage option is standard and requires covering the boat with shrink-wrap to ensure it remains ventilated and protected from unfavorable weather elements.
Once you’ve stored the boat, a routine clean-up exercise will save you time and energy on the next sailing trip. The regular maintenance checks will include; removing carpets, electronics, and food. Cleaning the shaft and propeller, topping off the antifreeze, replacing cracked hoses, and properly cleaning the boat.
2. Exterior Cleaning
An aesthetically pleasing boat is beautiful to the eyes. Keeping the vessel clean protects its exterior from animals and plants that can cling to it and reduce the harsh effects of corrosive effects of saltwater. Cleaning the boat on land serves the marine environment better by preventing water pollution because of safe cleaning products. Cleaning the ship en route your voyage can harm aquatic life.
Clean the fiberglass, canvas (boat covers, fabric in cockpit), and upholstery to help keep the boat in perfect condition.
3. Boat Engine Maintenance
Regular engine checks will ensure that the boat serves you longer. You do not need to be a professional to engage in this exercise. Here are essential reviews you can employ:
- Check the propeller for trapped fish and oil buildup
- Secure the engine mount screw clamp
- Ensure the fuel vent tank is open and you have fuel
- Disconnect the fuel line after flushing the engine
- Turn off the battery and key switch
The boat’s engine requires attention because it runs at high rpm. In case of damages, seek professional help when installing a used marine gearbox to ensure you get the proper gear ratio and experience excellent engine capacity.
