Maintaining your boat is similar to taking care of a car. Maintaining your boat isn’t difficult but it takes consistency and dedication. Just like a car boats will require certain kinds of maintenance during certain intervals, and also after use.

Read on for a checklist for maintenance on your boat, easy suggestions for keeping your boat in good condition, and tips on scheduling a servicing.

Boat Maintenance Checklist

If you decide to purchase a boat and are considering buying one, you must have a maintenance plan. Check your current knowledge and abilities. What types of services can you currently know how to handle, and which services you should seek help from a professional?

To keep your boat running It is recommended to:

Test your electronics
Test your lights
Examine the battery’s charge
Check the level of fluids, such as power steering and coolant
Change the oil Inspect the propellor
Check the gas tank, fuel lines, and engines to look for leaks, corrosion, or cracks
Make sure the railing is secured
Make sure you’ve got all your safety gear
Make sure you have all your boat replacement parts in boat storage
Check the belts and other engine components
Get your boat detailed

Simple ways to maintain a boat

Wash and wax

One of the simplest ways to prolong the performance of your vessel is to keep the fiberglass hull in good condition and well-lubricated. The coating of fiberglass can become chalky if it is not waxed regularly. It is also helpful to strip off the previous wax before applying a new coat of wax. Unlike cars, boats lack a clear coat so proper waxing is critical to the life expectancy of your boat. Without a sealant made of wax to safeguard your boat, it will become oxidized and cost more to repair than to have it properly waxed up front.

Cleaning your boat from inside to out will stop the accumulation of mold. Mold can be insidious and it’s best to wash your boat on a regular basis than trying to control the spread of mold. Be cautious when cleaning with harsh chemicals in your boat as they can wear down that gel layer. Detailing once or twice a year will not only ensure that your boat looks great but, it can also guarantee that everything is working properly.

Wipe Off Your Boat

After a great day in the sea take a towel to dry the boat clean. Lingering moisture can contribute to the growth of mold, mildew corrosion, stains, and many other problems. Drying off any moisture can help your boat last longer. Lifejackets, ropes, water toys, as well as other items likely to be affected by moisture or retention should be taken off the boat, dried off, and put in dry storage containers after use.

Check Metal Parts for Corrosion

Any exposed metal piece of your boat could corrode and rust. Make sure to check the metal parts regularly to look for signs of rust and dry them as quickly as you can. Your boat engine should also be examined for corrosion. To prevent corrosion as well as other engine problems, you should regularly flush your engine.

Regular Oil Changes

Find the manual to determine when you’ll need to change your oil. In general, it is recommended to change your oil once every 100 hours. Quickly-lube stores for boats and watercraft do not exist, so you should make sure you take your boat to a certified specialist or dealership with a service center.

Check Your Propeller

Be sure to check thoroughly your propeller. Many problems can arise from your propeller. Therefore, you should remove it regularly throughout the boating season and inspect it. It’s fine to have scratches or damaged paint, however significant dents, or signs of impact must be dealt with by an experienced professional. Otherwise, it could lead to a loss of efficiency and additional fuel consumption.

This is also an excellent occasion to ensure that your water intake is clear of debris. A frequent problem is that the fishing line can end up in the propeller. If this occurs then you must ask the dealer to check your gearcase to make sure there is no evidence of leaks. Gearcase servicing should always be performed by a professional with experience. After examining your propeller it is recommended to add waterproof grease and then install the propeller in the exact sequence you removed it.

Remove Your Battery in the Off-Season

Batteries will not last for long, but you can prolong the lifespan of your battery by removing it during the winter months when your boat is stored away. Make sure it is clean, and charged, and store it in a spot that isn’t easily affected by temperature fluctuations and the elements.

Taking A Boat in for Maintenance

You should take your boat into the shop for servicing prior to starting of the season for boating and also for maintenance when circumstances arise, such as a dented prop or engine that is corroding or the need for an oil replacement. If you take your boat to be serviced for maintenance, spring servicing, or winterization You should make a call in advance and make an appointment to arrive before the scheduled time.