As the days warm up, skippers want to hear the splash of the hull on the water. The last week in May, or Memorial Day weekend, marks the official start of the boating season in cold weather climates.
In getting your boat ready, be conscientious of the following two important factors that should be top of mind: maintenance and safety. To enjoy the best possible boating experience, your equipment has to be in tip-top shape, and you have to know your state’s existing and newest requirements for boating safety. Consulting your engine manual is a great place to start.
By spring, most boats have been sitting for three or more months unused. Salt air and extreme temperature changes can dry rot hoses and other rubber parts. Fuel in your tank can break down, and moisture can cause corrosion of metal parts and electrical systems.
If you are unfamiliar with boat engines or are still in the learning phase, spring is the time to schedule a tune-up with a certified engine technician. Allow at least a two-week waiting period, as service schedules tend to fill quickly.
During your tune-up, your mechanic should run a compression test, check the seals and water pump, test the spark plugs, change the lubricant in the lower unit, check warning alarms.
Water Pumps
The water pumps use a rubber impeller. The impeller may wear out at about 200 hours. Check the water pump to avoid overheating and ensure that water is flowing correctly through the motor. If your thermostats aren’t running right, your engine will run either hot or cold.
Battery
Boaters should check battery strength and fluid levels. Always leave your battery switch in the “OFF” position whenever your battery is not in use because your GPS, radio, stereo, and radar will drain your battery.
Check the Oil
In outboard motors, check your oil reservoir. A four-stroke oil reservoir is located inside the engine. Regarding two-stroke motors, unless you mix oil directly into the gas tank, a separate oil reservoir is located somewhere in the boat. Remember to check the power trim and gear oil.
Filters
Filters should be replaced regularly. Ethanol blended gasoline is a problem for boaters. Because ethanol acts as a solvent, it can dissolve the lining of your gas tank and send it directly to the engine. In addition, ethanol pulls moisture into the tank from the outside air. A stabilizer should be added to your fuel system. Change the water separator and fuel filter annually or every 100 hours, whichever comes first.
Change the bilge pump circuit, breaker, and automatic switch.
If you are trailering your boat, pay special attention to wheel bearings, tires, and brake lights.
Dock Lines
Check all dock lines for chafing and fraying.
Check all safety Equipment.
Flares, throw cushions, life jackets. The intense sun can do a number on cushions and life jackets, and flares and fire extinguishers need to be current before the expiration dates. The Coast Guard, marine police, and environmental marine law enforcement take out-of-date safety equipment very seriously, and they enforce heavy fines if you are noncompliant.
Check all dock lights and electrical fittings for loose wires. Docks should have an emergency shut-off switch for electricity on the docks.
At boat launch time, don’t skimp on repairs or equipment that has to be replaced. Prepare to spend some money on updates, replacements, and repairs. Plan to spend several days making your boat ship shape. Your summertime boating will be more fun, and all the better for it.
For product information go to https://www.clrmarine.com
Fair Winds, Smooth Sailing.
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To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/.
Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
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